Dayofvalor Stories

‎"Novenary of Valor" is a collection of nine poems written by Princess Cabugnason (me), an author came from Dumaguete City, Negros Oriental. This collection is a solemn tribute to April 9, 1942-Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor). Set against the backdrop of the 2026 commemorations, the verses serve as a poetic pilgrimage through the hills of Bataan and the dusty trails of the Death March. By blending English and Tagalog, Princess (me) captures the dual nature of Philippine history: the painful reality of a fallen fortress and the immortal triumph of a spirit that refused to be broken. ‎ ‎Through this "novenary"-a term traditionally associated with a sacred set of nine-the author honors the USAFFE forces who stood as the final bastion of defense in the Pacific. Drawing from the deep cultural heritage of her Visayan roots, Princess (me) explores themes of brotherhood, sacrifice, and the "unbowed spirit." Each poem, from the haunting silence of Mount Samat to the selfless sharing of a canteen's last drop, moves beyond a mere retelling of tragedy, focusing instead on the dignity found in resilience and the light that persists even in the darkest hours of surrender. ‎ ‎"Novenary of Valor" is a tribute to the blood-stained soil of Bataan and the heroes who walked the miles of red dust so that future generations might walk in peace. It challenges readers to view the towering Cross of Samat not just as a monument of stone, but as a living symbol of national pride. This collection stands as a heartfelt reminder from the Dumaguete-born author that while a fortress may fall, the courage of a nation is a flame that can never be extinguished. ‎ Released Date: April 9, 2026