The University of Santo Tomas (UST) marked the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Santo Tomas Internment Camp with a solemn ceremony at Plaza Mayor, honoring a pivotal moment in Philippine and World War II history.

At this historic moment, American forces rescued more than 3,700 civilian prisoners, mostly American and Allied nationals, who had been detained by Japanese forces since 1942. Located within the UST campus, the camp had become a site of immense hardship, with internees suffering from malnutrition, disease, and harsh treatment.

With the theme "Liberation’s Legacy: Honoring the Past, Shaping the Future," the commemoration featured a wreath-laying ceremony led by US Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay L. Carlson, UST Secretary-General Fr. Louie R. Coronel, O.P., and National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair and former UST Archivist Prof. Regalado Trota Jose Jr.

Carlson emphasized the importance of remembering the suffering endured by Filipino and American internees and the resilience they demonstrated.

"Stories of their experiences are etched into the fabric of this hallowed place, reminders of the cruelty of war and the enduring strength of the human spirit," Carlson said in her speech.

For Coronel, honoring the past means ensuring the sacrifices of those who lived and died are never forgotten.

"The story of Santo Tomas reminds us that the pursuit of peace, justice, and human dignity is neverending," Coronel said.

Jose paid tribute to Captain Manuel Colayco, a former UST faculty member who played a crucial role in liberating the detainees by confronting the Japanese Imperial Forces.

He also stressed the importance of preserving historical remnants within the UST Main Building, such as the doors leading to the Rector’s Hall, which still bear shrapnel marks, as well as the bullet-ridden walls and markers facing the Quadricentennial Park.

"May we never forget the lessons of the past by thanking and blessing those who fell in order that we may live. May the courage of those who fought and endured continue to guide us in our life," Jose said.

The event was also attended by Philippine Veterans Bank’s Miguel Angelo Villareal, Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Administrator Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu, American Battle Monuments Commission Director Vicente Lim IV, and Manila’s Department of Tourism, Culture, and Arts Director Charlie Dungo.

They paid tribute to the resilience and sacrifices of those who endured captivity during the war. #