Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Thursday called for a joint Filipino-Korean film project to honor the heroism of Filipino soldiers in the Battle of Yuldong, while also expressing openness to a future military agreement with South Korea.
Speaking during the 75th anniversary commemoration of the battle at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, Teodoro urged Korean Ambassador Lee Sang-hwa to support the co-production of a film that would bring wider recognition to Filipino troops who fought in the Korean War.
“Let’s get the best production, the best direction,” Teodoro said, stressing the importance of telling the story to younger generations.
The proposed film would focus on the Battle of Yuldong in April 1951, where around 900 Filipino soldiers from the 10th Battalion Combat Team fought against enemy forces.
Among those honored were Captain Conrado Yap and Lieutenant Jose Artiaga, both of whom were killed in the battle. Military accounts say the engagement resulted in at least 500 enemy combatants neutralized, with Yap cited for rescuing wounded comrades under heavy fire. He was later awarded the Medal of Valor and South Korea’s Taeguk Medal.
Teodoro said the project aims to address what he described as limited public awareness of Filipino contributions during the Korean War.
“I don’t care what nationality produces the film, as long as it properly portrays the bravery of Filipinos and Koreans,” he said.
He added that highlighting such stories is key to reinforcing national pride and values tied to courage and duty.
Meanwhile, Teodoro said he is open to forging a Status of Visiting Forces Agreement (SOVFA) with South Korea to establish a legal framework for joint military exercises and cooperation.
“That depends on them. I am always ready,” he said, noting that Manila has yet to receive a formal expression of interest from Seoul.
The Philippines currently maintains similar defense agreements with several countries, including the United States, Australia, Canada, France, New Zealand, and Japan.