The Philippine Army Reserve Command honored Capt. Allan Fernando R. Poe Sr., widely known as Fernando Poe Sr., for his bravery and service during World War II, as part of the nationwide observance of Philippine Veterans Week.
A wreath-laying ceremony was held Friday morning at Camp Riego de Dios, attended by senior military officials, reservists, and guests in solemn tribute to Poe Sr.’s contributions to the war effort.
Leading the ceremony were Col. Edgardo Monjardin, Chief of Staff of the Reserve Command; Col. Roberto Q. Beatisula Jr., Commander of the Provincial Task Force-Cavite; and Lt. Col. Melchor P. Fernando, Battalion Commander of the 402nd Regional Reserve Infantry Battalion. Their participation underscored the Armed Forces’ commitment to honoring wartime heroes and strengthening the reserve force.
Also present was Poe Sr.’s great-grandson, FPJ Panday Bayanihan Party-list Representative Brian Poe, who attended as a reservist officer.
He reflected on his ancestor’s legacy and recalled his entry into active service at the onset of World War II on December 20, 1941, as part of the Reserve Officers of the Armed Forces of the Philippines.
During the war, Poe Sr. served as Assistant Provost Marshal under Simeon de Jesus before becoming a platoon leader and morale officer in Bataan. He was tasked with protecting civilians during intense combat operations until his capture by Japanese forces and subsequent ordeal during the Bataan Death March following the fall of Bataan on April 9, 1942.
Despite these hardships, he later continued resistance efforts by joining the Panay Guerrillas under Macario Peralta Jr., demonstrating resilience and patriotism in the fight for national liberation.
The ceremony highlighted not only Poe Sr.’s wartime legacy but also the enduring courage and sacrifice of Filipino veterans whose service continues to inspire future generations.