Media Release
27 April 2026
By Corporal Luke Bellman
Dawn broke over Manila as personnel from Australia, New Zealand and partner nations stood shoulder to shoulder with their Philippine counterparts, marking Anzac Day 2026 at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.
Held at first light, the service brought together diplomats, Defence personnel and partner nations to honour those who served and sacrificed.
An Australian Defence Force contingent deployed on Exercise Balikatan 2026 was also in attendance.
Commander of the Australian Contingent on Exercise Balikatan 2026 Lieutenant Colonel Ben Woolmer said marking Anzac Day while deployed overseas carried deep personal and professional meaning.
“It’s a time to pause as a leader and reflect on the dedication of our soldiers, sailors and aviators, and the sacrifice of those who came before us,” he said.
Libingan ng mga Bayani [the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier], a symbol of all unidentified service members who gave their lives in defence of the Philippines, stood as the focal point of the ceremony.
The ceremony was led by Australian Assistant Defence Attaché Lieutenant Colonel Noel Young, with the British School Manila Chamber Singers setting a reflective tone throughout.
Australian Defence Attaché Colonel Travis Day said commemorating Anzac Day overseas carried added significance.
“It’s an honour and a privilege to represent our nation on a day like Anzac Day,” Colonel Day said.
“The ability to commemorate such an important day in our nation’s history while serving overseas is something I don’t take lightly.”
New Zealand Ambassador to the Philippines Dr Catherine McIntosh delivered the main address, followed by a reading of In Flanders Fields by Australian Ambassador Marc Innes-Brown.
The Turkish Ambassador, H.E. Niyazi Evren Akyol, read the Atatürk epilogue, highlighting the shared history of remembrance.
Wreaths were laid by Philippine Veterans Affairs Office representative Pablo Lorenzo, alongside Australian, New Zealand and Turkish officials, before veterans, organisations and members of the public followed.
The Ode was recited by Australian Defence Force Warrant Officer Elizabeth Crean before the Last Post sounded, followed by a two-minute silence.
Reveille was then played to close the ceremony, before national anthems reflected a shared respect across nations.
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