QuestionsQuestions (PROCLAMATION NO. 371)
Proclamation No. 371 declares February 27 of each year as USAFFE Day to commemorate the triumphal entry of the USAFFE forces in Manila and the liberation of the Philippines from enemy occupation during World War II.
USAFFE stands for United States Army Forces in the Far East, the combined Filipino and American military force during World War II.
February 27th marks the day in 1945 when the USAFFE forces triumphantly entered the City of Manila and General Douglas MacArthur turned over the Commonwealth Government to former President Sergio Osmeña.
The purpose is to honor the sacrifices and heroism of the USAFFE members, symbolize the liberation of the Philippines, and remind Filipinos of their heritage of liberty, peace, and democracy.
Military installations, government offices, and public schools and institutions of learning are especially instructed to observe USAFFE Day.
The proclamation references the liberation of the Philippines after more than three years of occupation by an enemy that enslaved the Filipino people and devastated the country during World War II.
Both the deceased and living members of the USAFFE are recognized for their heroism and sacrifices.
It characterizes their struggle as an epic fight against aggression and totalitarianism to preserve democratic institutions.