Desiree Benipayo

Local historian

Desiree Ann Cua Benipayo is a Manila-based historian, author, and film producer specializing in World War II history in the Philippines. She serves as Vice President for Research and Education at the Philippine World War II Memorial Foundation and Secretary of Memorare Manila 1945. Her acclaimed book Honor: The Legacy of Jose Abad Santos won the 2019 National Book Award for Non-fiction and inspired a documentary film adaptation. Through her writing, films, and lectures, Benipayo promotes remembrance of wartime heroism and civilian sacrifice, helping preserve Filipino historical memory and educate new generations about the nation’s World War II experiences.