Today’s freedom lies on promoting social justice—Mayor Ogena
Expatiating from the podium his first Independence Day message as chief executive, City Mayor Eliordo Ogena delivers a pondering message on the essence of our forefathers’ fight for freedom translated into modern-day struggle.
Bearing this year’s theme, “Kalayaan 2020: Tungo sa Bansang Malaya, Nagbabayanihan, at Ligtas”, Mayor Ogena boosted the morale of all audiences and emphasized the role of the city government that resonates to our historical predecessors: to foster unity and champion for social justice. “The task of the city government is to promote social justice for everyone. Para sa lahat, at hindi sa iilan lamang ang katarungan. Para sa komunidad, at sa lahat ng antas, estado, at uri ng lipunan, ang demokrasyang atin ngayong pinagdiriwang.”
His keynote speech also acknowledged the importance of attaining today’s freedom by lifting the constituents out of poverty, attain education, and transparency governance, as what his administration commits to address.
Ultimately, Mayor Ogena sets out his vision for every Koronadaleño, to value unity and uphold honor as citizens. “Tinatanaw na malaking pagkaka-utang na loob ang manilbihan sa sambayanan. Higit sa lahat sa Bagong Koronadal, huhubugin ang bawat isa sa pagiging bayang marangal. Ngunit hindi ko ito kayang mag-isa. Kailangan ng ambag at pananagutan ng lahat upang ito ay maisakatuparan.”
The June 12 holiday has kept its solemnity despite the restrictions of COVID-19 – a different experience from the previous grand celebrations. It was celebrated by citizens in the comfort of their homes, watching the livestream of the official rites headed by City Mayor Eliordo U. Ogena, Vice Mayor Peter B. Miguel, city councilors, key officials, and selected guests at the Rizal Park.
The simple gathering was made sure to observe proper public health protocols for safety. The threat on the people’s health and safety brought by the pandemic has not deterred the entire City of Koronadal to internalize the deep meaning of more than a century of independence.