In commemoration of the 84th Anniversary of Valor, the Philippine Veterans Bank (PVB), in partnership with the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) and the Department of National Defense (DND) will initiate tonight the return of the 2026 Bataan Freedom March.
Slated until tomorrow, March 1, 2026, this historic tribute invites civilians, veterans’ descendants and active members to retrace the harrowing 100-plus kilometer route endured by Filipino and American heroes during the World War II Bataan Death March.
“The Freedom March is an inclusive tribute open to everyone who wishes to honor the legacy of our heroes,” PVB first vice president Miguel Angelo C. Villa-Real pointed out.
“Eighty-four years later, we carry their torch to ensure their sacrifice is never forgotten,” he added.
The march is strategically designed for both endurance athletes and casual enthusiasts, divided into 10-kilometer segments to allow participants to join for a single portion or commit to the entire trail:
The tribute begins today at the stroke of midnight (12:01 AM) at Kilometer Zero in Mariveles, Bataan, concluding the first stretch in Dinalupihan by 7:00 PM. Day 2 resumes on March 1, at 1:00 AM. Marchers head toward San Fernando, Pampanga.
The journey culminates at 6:00 PM with a solemn closing ceremony at the Capas National Shrine in Tarlac—the hallowed ground of the former Camp O’Donnell.
Throughout the trek, participants will pass a symbolic Freedom March Guidon and torch, representing a continuous flame of bravery passed from the heroes of 1942 to the generation of today.
In honor of our veterans, participation is free of charge. However, due to the logistical complexity of coordinating across three provinces, advance registration is strictly required for safety and coordination.