Decades after they fought for the United States during World War II, Filipino veterans continue to fight to have their rightful status and benefits restored by the U.S. government. Building on these valiant efforts, the Filipino Veterans Recognition & Education Project (FilVetREP) took up the cudgels for them 10 years ago, urging Congress to fulfill the promise made by President Franklin Roosevelt to the Filipino soldiers who served under the American flag.
Since its founding, FilVetREP has worked tirelessly to restore recognition and benefits for Filipino veterans. Their efforts helped secure the Congressional Gold Medal in 2017 and continue today, ensuring all veterans and their families are acknowledged, including women who served as guerrillas, nurses, and volunteers.

The anniversary celebration brought together veterans, families, volunteers, and community leaders to honor these heroes and reflect on a decade of advocacy. Philippine Ambassador Jose Manuel Romualdez spoke about the power of storytelling, reminding everyone that history lives on only when people choose to keep it alive. Longtime allies, including the Philippine Nurses Association of Metro DC, stood in support, emphasizing the urgency of preserving these stories as firsthand voices are lost with time.
FilVetREP also took a moment to honor those within their ranks lawyers, filmmakers, volunteers, and activists who have passed away over the past decade, recognizing their contributions in protecting and sharing these histories. A video montage of the 2017 Congressional Gold Medal ceremony served as a poignant reminder of how far the organization has come and the heart it has taken to get here.

Ten years in, FilVetREP’s mission continues. Many Filipino veterans and their families remain unrecognized in official records, and some who qualify for benefits still face obstacles. Proposals submitted to Congress, including a request for a presidential apology, aim to restore what was lost, correct the record, and ensure future generations know exactly who these heroes were.

What FilVetREP has accomplished in a decade is more than advocacy it is restoration, dignity returned, and truth reclaimed. These veterans served the United States in its darkest hour and never turned away. Their stories deserve to be held, honored, and celebrated. After ten years, FilVetREP continues to make sure no one can ever say these heroes were forgotten.