MANILA — The House of Representatives approved on third and final reading a measure declaring April of every year as Philippine Veterans Month, setting aside a full month to honor Filipino veterans and reaffirm the country’s obligation to recognize their service, sacrifice, and patriotism.

House Bill No. 7301 was approved with 218 votes, reflecting broad support in the chamber for strengthening institutional recognition of veterans’ contributions to nation-building and the defense of freedom.

House Majority Leader Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos, a principal author of the measure alongside Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III of Ilocos Norte, said the proposed law gives Filipinos a wider platform to remember and honor those who served the country in times of war and conflict.

“Let’s pay tribute to them and recognize their bravery and heroism and the sacrifices they have made for our country so we can enjoy freedom,” Marcos said.

Marcos added that the measure reinforces the Constitution’s mandate for the State to care for Filipino veterans through both symbolic recognition and concrete programs.

“During this whole month of celebration, let us conduct programs and activities in recognition of our veterans. More importantly, let us provide the benefits and services due them,” he said.

Aside from Speaker Dy and Majority Leader Marcos, the other authors of the bill include former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo of Pampanga, TUCP Party-list Rep. Raymond Democrito Mendoza, and Reps. Rudy Caogdan of North Cotabato, Yevgeny Vicente Emano of Misamis Oriental, and Dibu S. Tuan of South Cotabato.

Under the bill, the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, the Department of National Defense, the Department of the Interior and Local Government, the Department of Health, the Department of Education, and other relevant agencies are mandated to lead and coordinate activities in observance of Philippine Veterans Month.

The activities aim to highlight veterans’ patriotic sacrifices and underscore their role in safeguarding the country and the Filipino people, while strengthening public awareness of veterans’ welfare and entitlements.

Local government units, other state offices, and private organizations are encouraged to support and participate in commemorative programs and activities throughout April.

The Philippine Veterans Affairs Office, the Department of National Defense, and other concerned agencies are tasked to issue the implementing rules and regulations of the proposed law.