Japan and Philippines strengthen ties at Manila memorial

A large crowd gathered at the Manila American Cemetery to mark the 80th anniversary of the Battle of Manila. This significant event resulted in over 100,000 deaths and devastated the Philippine capital during World War II. Attendees honored the veterans by saluting and embracing them. Many of these veterans are now in their late 90s or early 100s. Young people showed their respect by performing a traditional gesture called mano, where they pressed their foreheads to the veterans' hands. In his speech, Samuel Paparo, commander of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, highlighted the importance of remembering those sacrifices. He encouraged everyone to be strong in the face of current challenges, emphasizing the renewed ties between Japan and the Philippines. This relationship is becoming more important as tensions rise in the region.