via the US Embassy in the Philippines, 19 October 2022: The bells were taken as war loot in 1901, and returned in 2018.
On October 18, U.S. Ambassador to the Philippines MaryKay Carlson visited Eastern Samar to view the Balangiga Bells, whose return in 2018 marked a milestone in the U.S.-Philippine bilateral relationship.
“These bells have witnessed the entire arc of history between our countries—from the painful conflict of the early 1900s when we were adversaries to the moment four years ago when they were finally returned to the Filipino people with whom we now stand as friends, partners, and allies,” said Ambassador Carlson.
“The return of the bells reflects the strong bonds and mutual respect between our two nations and our peoples. These bells are more than just historical objects. They represent the quest for identity, sovereignty, and freedom,” she added.
Source: U.S. Ambassador Visits Balangiga Bells – U.S. Embassy in the Philippines
