“Let us allow history to influence and inspire us”- Mayor Ogena
City Mayor Atty. Eliordo Ogena leads the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence with the theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan,” on June 12 in the Rizal Park, this city.
The event featured a civic-military parade dubbed as “People’s Parade” where hundreds of participants show their support. The highlight of the celebration was the simultaneous raising of the Philippine flag across the country, 21 guns and, wreath-laying ceremony.
In the opening message of City Vice Mayor Erlinda Araquil, she admitted that she was emotional while preparing her speech upon looking back at the past.
On the otherhand, South Cotabato 2nd District Representative Peter B. Miguel emphasized ‘Pakikiisa’ to challenge everyone that the efforts our heroes fought for freedom would not in vain.
In his speech, Mayor Ogena said the spirit of Philippine Independence is not only be a testament to the past but a true guide to our future of greatness. ”Let it guide our actions, fuel passions, and motivate us and achieve beyond our wildest dreams, “ the Local Chief Executive stated.
Meanwhile, the Guest of Honor, Arch. Nicolas Ricafrente Grandmaster, Most Worshipful Independent Grand Lodge of Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippine Islands (MWIGLPI) made mention that the whole country can celebrate the freedom at the same time to build our freedom which is considered a treasure. Further, he stressed, “Our Freedom is Our Wealth” boosted the morale of all audiences and emphasized the role of each attendee.”
In addition to the anniversary ceremony, a memorial obelisk was unveiled for all the Masonic heroes who gave their life for the Philippine Independence, and it will be placed behind Jose P. Rizal monument.
As part of the festivities, the event featured “Kalayaan Theatrical Presentation and Awit ng Pag-aalay” and Kalayaan Job Fair with the help of the Department of Local and Employment (DOLE XII) highlighting the entrepreneurial workers on June 13.
Added activities to the celebration, the City Sports and Development Office spearheaded Poster Making and Essay Writing contests.
The event was attended by the visitors from Cavite, Department Heads of LGU- Koronadal, Sangguniang Panlungsod members and various Government Agencies.