PHILIPPINES. Japanese Occupation. Bronze Tirad Pass Medal, 1944. By: C. Zamora.Honeycutt-330; Basso-168. With original ribbon and pin. Obverse: Bust of General Gregorio Del Pilar with a view of Tirad Pass in the background. Lower uniform has initials J.P.L. 1944; Reverse: TIRAD PASS MEDAL above, leaves below inscription. A well made and preserved example with lovely mottled chocolate and charcoal patina. An EXTREMELY RARE and highly sought after issue certain see spirited bidding. According to Honeycutt this is the only military medal or decoration issued by the Philippine government during the Japanese occupation. Many were destroyed after the war by their recipients so as not to be identified as serving in the military under the Japanese occupiers. He goes on to say that he estimates the approximate survival rate of these issues is about 15 pieces.From the Pasig River Collection.
