The Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 has passed the US Congress after the House of Representatives approved it unanimously, the Department of Foreign Affairs said over the weekend.
The bill passed the Senate last July 13, and is now a step closer to becoming a law, pending President Barack Obama’s signature after the Lower House passed it last November 30.
The Senate version (S 1555) was sponsored by senators Mazie Hirono, Dean Heller, Harry Reid, Tim Kaine and Brian Schatz, while the House version (HR 2737) was sponsored by representatives Tulsi Gabbard, Joseph Heck, Juan Vargas, Mike Thompson, Mark Takai and Jackie Speier. Both bills were introduced on June 11, 2015.
The Philippine Embassy in Washington, DC has lauded the passage of the bill.
“We welcome this good news and extend our appreciation to all the advocates and supporters of the bill at the US House of Representatives and the Senate. Our veterans’ sacrifice is one of the greatest stories of heroism, courage, and strength that our two countries have ever seen. From ordinary civilians to defenders of free nations, these men and women deserve our deepest respect and gratitude,” Minister Patrick Chuasoto, chargé d’affaires ad interim of the Philippine Embassy, said in a statement.
“We also recognize the contributions of the Philippine Consulates General and Filipino communities across the United States, the National Federation of Filipino American Associations, and the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project in the success of this joint campaign. We look forward to the final step of President Obama’s signing this bill into law,” he added.
The Filipino Veterans of World War II Congressional Gold Medal Act of 2015 seeks to award a Congressional Gold Medal, the highest expression of national appreciation for distinguished achievements and contributions in the US, collectively, to 260,000 Filipino veterans in recognition of their dedicated service during World War II. (PNA)
