PROCLAMATION NO. 18

: It commemorates the landing of the United States Armed Forces on Leyte on October 20, 1944, which marked the beginning of military operations to liberate the Philippines from Japanese occupation during World War II.
: It is declared as the first anniversary of the landing of American liberation forces on Philippine soil.
: To honor the brave men who fought for freedom in the Philippines and to observe the day in a spirit of humility before God while paying tribute to those who fought, suffered, and died for liberty.
: It was signed in the City of Washington, D.C. (for the City of Manila, Philippines) on October 17, 1945.
: The Philippine liberation campaign lasted a year and was marked by the heroic redemption of a nation that had suffered deeply under enemy occupation during World War II.
: All the people of the Philippines are called upon to observe the day.
: The day is to be observed in a spirit of humility before God.
: It pays tribute to those who fought, suffered, and died for the cause of liberty during the liberation of the Philippines.
: The proclamation was signed by President Sergio Osmeña and the Secretary to the President, Jose S. Reyes, and the seal of the Commonwealth of the Philippines was affixed.