By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga and Mae Singuay
Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Lacson said Independence Day is not just a date on the calendar, but a reminder to Filipinos of their responsibility to preserve the nation’s freedom.
Lacson, together with provincial officials, led the commemoration of the 125th Independence Day at the Provincial Capitol Grounds yesterday morning.
In his message, Lacson emphasized the importance of remembering the national heroes who fought for freedom and continue to serve as inspiration today.
Various agencies and uniformed personnel attended the ceremonies, including the Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office, 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army, Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Coast Guard, along with the Department of Education-Division of Negros Occidental, Boy Scouts, and Girl Scouts of the Philippines.
The Philippine Air Force also participated by flying two helicopters and showering confetti resembling the Philippine flag on the Capitol grounds.
The provincial government also distributed insurance benefits worth more than P900,000 through the Barangay Insurance Program, benefiting 17 barangay officials, employees and tanods.
Meanwhile, in capital Bacolod City, Lone District Representative Greg Gasataya, who was the key speaker during Independence Day rites at the city public plaza yesterday, said the public should continue the fight for our nation’s freedom.
“Ating ipagpatuloy ang laban ng ating kalayaan. Ang sakripisyo at disiplina natin sa kasalukuyan ang magsisilbing istorya ng kasaganahan ng susunod na henerasyon,” Gasataya said in his message delivered before a thousand city government officials.
He also said that residents should dedicate this day to the sacrifices of our ancestors and heroes who died during the COVID-19 pandemic.
“We must also remember those Bacolodnons that hardly followed the community health protocols [during COVID-19 pandemic] in order to be one in facing whatever challenges,” Gasataya said.
He further said with the help of the local government and the unity of the people of Bacolod, the city will continue to build a brighter future for all, inspired by the freedom achieved.
Bacolod Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez led the ceremonial rites together with the city council.
A wreath laying at the monument of unknown soldier was also held./DGB, MS, WDJ