"We Shall Return" - The 2025 Delegation to Palo, Leyte

By Lydia Kou

I. Arrival, Cultural Warmth, and Historical Context

The 2025 visit to Palo, Leyte began with an immediate sense of excitement, marked by a warm welcome from our non-profit partners, the GIANTS President Bernie and Children’s Librarian Shelaine, and the scholars. Cultural immersion began quickly with the local custom of addressing women as “Ma’am” and men as “Sir.” The delegation was honored with handmade medallions to signify our affiliation with GIANTS.
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While traveling through the community, the delegation observed the deep historical appreciation for U.S. General MacArthur, evidenced by beautifully erected monuments, juxtaposed with the challenging sight of corrugated metal street-side shops and homes. Our hotel is located along the infamous Red Beach, named after the blood of soldiers and civilians, spilled during World War II. The locals embrace General MacArthur’s promise, “I shall return,” celebrating his landing annually as the liberation day of the Philippines.

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