Manila, June 9 -- The city government formally donated the land where the Balantang Memorial Cemetery National Shrine, the interment site for World War II heroes from Panay, is currently located in Barangay Balantang in Jaro district.

The city government, represented by Mayor Jerry Trenas, and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO) Administrator Undersecretary Reynaldo Mapagu signed the deed of donation and acceptance at the city mayor's office on Monday.

The 5,824-square-meter property was declared a national shrine under PVAO's administration in 1994 through Proclamation No. 425.

Trenas emphasized the importance of the donation, noting that while a usufruct agreement previously existed, full ownership by PVAO allows for further de...