MANILA, Philippines -- The Philippine Embassy in Washington bestowed congressional gold medals posthumously to four Filipino veterans of World War II to recognize their achievements and service to the United States. The embassy held the ceremony on Nov. 7, 2025 in partnership with the Filipino Veterans Recognition and Education Project (FilVetREP). The medal was awarded to Filipino World War II veterans under Public Law 114-265. It stands as a symbol of valor, integrity, and selfless service to the nation. Held between Filipino American History Month and Veterans Day, the ceremony served as "a poignant reminder of the shared history and enduring alliance" between the Philippines and the United States, the embassy posted on Facebook. The awards were given to the respective families of the late US Navy Petty Officer First Class Jose Baraquio, US Army Staff Sergeant Ernesto Cesario, US Army Staff Sergeant Marcial Marasigan Simpson, and US Army Sergeant First Class Joaquin Canlas.