Madonna of Japan: A Symbol of Peace and Friendship

Wed, 16 Apr 2008 07:33:25 PST

The city of Tacloban or the island of Leyte in general played a very important role in the making of Philippine history. During the Second World War, the place became a campground both for the American and Japanese soldiers. Many of the folks here gave their lives at stake just to help in liberating the subjugated Philippine islands. Young men were forced to become soldiers in favor of the Americans. Women were also enjoined to look after and take care of the young men in the battlefield. Those years indeed brought dreadful experiences to the people of Leyte.

During those years, the Japanese soldiers were considered enemies. They were the subject of revulsion among Filipino people. Anybody who sees Japanese would yell out in disdain. However, as years pass by, the Japanese government and its people tried to establish comradeship with the Filipinos. Thus, Japan and the Philippines became friends and started to support each other for progress.

As a symbol of peace between the Filipino and Japanese people thirty three (33) years after the Second World War, this stone monument of the Madonna Maria Kannon (populary know as Madonna of Japan) is erected in memory of the brave soldiers who fought and died in the battlefield.

This monument is situated at the foot of Kanhuraw Hills in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines. This is mostly visited by Japanese people when to go to Tacloban City. They offer flowers and take photographs with the monument.