By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Amid the ongoing National Flag Days observance, which began last month and runs until next week, June 12, Bacolod City Mayor Evelio Leonardia recently issued an executive order calling for the city to commemorate the 15-day occasion.
The order calls on all business establishments, government offices and agencies, non-governmental organizations, barangays, and local residents to display the Philippine flag as an “expression of nationalism and patriotism.”
SM Supermalls across the country, including SM City Bacolod, began celebrating National Flag Days last month with a special flag-raising ceremony.
In addition, the Department of Tourism-Region VI (DOT-6) also began their commemorations last month.
“We must respect the flag and pay tribute to the heroes who fought for our freedom,” said DOT-6 director, Atty. Helen J. Catalbas. “As government officials, we must value this freedom through providing quality services to the public.”
National Flag Days commemorates the first unfurling of the Philippine Flag in Kawit, Cavite on May 28, 1898./DGB, WDJ