AUSTRALIA, NEW ZEALAND EMBASSIES TO HOLD ANZAC DAY COMMEMORATIONS
The Australian and New Zealand Embassies in Manila will hold ANZAC Day commemorations on 25 April, 5:30am at the Libingan ng mga Bayani (Tomb of the Unknown Soldiers) to honour Australians and New Zealanders who have lost their lives in times of war and in the cause of peace.
ANZAC Day marks the anniversary of the first major military action fought by Australian and New Zealand Forces during the First World War. ANZAC was the name given to the Australian and New Zealand Army corps which landed on the Gallipoli Peninsula in Turkey early on the morning of 25 April 1915.
“ANZAC Day pays homage those Australians and New Zealanders who have given their lives in service of their countries. They have bequeathed a powerful legacy, and the ANZAC spirit is an important element in the identity of both nations,” Australian Ambassador Rod Smith said.
The event, Ambassador Smith added, also has a powerful resonance in the Philippines given the strong history of military links between Australia and the Philippines, from World War II to the present day.
In Australia, commemorative services are held at dawn, the time of the original landing, across the nation. Later in the day ex-servicemen and women meet and join in marches through the major cities and many smaller centres.
Commemorative ceremonies are held at war memorials around the country.
Members of the public wishing to attend the ANZAC Day ceremony in Manila should assemble by 5:15am and the service will commence promptly at 5:30am. A ‘gunfire breakfast’ will be available following the ceremony.
People attending are encouraged to wear medals. Personal medals should be worn on the left breast; medals of family members should be worn on the right breast.
Organisations and individuals wishing to lay wreaths should contact Ms Kathy Sanidad on 757-8151; fax 757 8329; email [email protected].