Filipino Shipmate Monument
Details:
On the south side of the road.
StatueThe monument features a central sculptural composition of three life-sized U.S. Navy sailors dressed in traditional white dress uniforms. The central figure stands in a formal salute, flanked by a sailor steering a ship's wheel and another keeping watch through binoculars, symbolizing leadership, seamanship, and vigilance. The statues are mounted on a polished stone pedestal bearing a commemorative plaque and are enclosed by semicircular black granite memorial walls engraved with the names of Filipino U.S. sailors. Dominating the ensemble is the approximately eight-foot-tall central figure, modeled after Fireman Second Class Telesforo Trinidad, the only Filipino sailor to have been awarded the U.S. Medal of Honor. The monument was unveiled on January 14, 2026.
Source of information: www.stripes.com
Monument Text:
FILIPINO SHIPMATE
This statue stands proudly as a tribute to all Filipino U.S. Sailors, most notably Fireman Second Class Telesforo Trinidad, a remarkable and lone Filipino U.S. Sailor who received the prestigious Medal of Honor. His unwavering bravery and unparalleled commitment to his duties have become a profound source of inspiration for all Filipino Sailors, both past and present, serving in the U.S. Navy and U.S. Coast Guard. The location of the statue holds meaningful historical significance, as Subic Bay has long served as a recruitment center and a home for thousands of U.S. Sailors.
With a rich legacy spanning from 1901 to 1992, over 35,000 Filipinos were recruited from Sangley Point Naval Station in Cavite and Subic Bay Naval Base in Olongapo.
This statue symbolizes their immense contributions, sacrifices, loyalty, and gallantry in upholding global peace and freedom. Most significantly, this statue serves as a poignant reminder of the enduring friendship and alliance between the Philippines and the United States of America. The construction and presentation of the "Filipino Shipmate" statue in 2025 was made possible through the efforts of the U.S. Sailors Alliance of the Philippines (U.S.S.A.P.). Their pivotal role in funding and executing this project showcases their deep commitment to honoring the legacy of Filipino U.S. Sailors. The statue was lovingly bestowed upon the Subic Bay Metropolitan Authority and the City of Olongapo, cementing its significance within the local community.






