INDEPENDENCE Day is not only to celebrate liberation but also a reminder to honor the sacrifices of the forefathers, Vice President Sara Duterte said on Wednesday, June 12.
Duterte bared the message during the city government’s celebration of the 126th anniversary of the Philippine Independence at Rizal Park.
The vice president also led the wreath-laying ceremony, along with Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao commander Commodore Alfonspin P. Tumanda, Jr., PN. at the monument of Dr. Jose P. Rizal.
“The freedom we experience in the present is the result of the unyielding resolve of our ancestors to reclaim our right to govern ourselves as a sovereign nation, pursue aspirations of our people, and manage our own economic resources,” she said.
She added while Filipinos pay tribute to sacrifices and reflect on the past, there is a need to look forward to the future.
“Our duty and moral responsibility is to maintain this freedom by learning from our past mistakes and tackling current issues that obstruct our growth as a nation,”
The vice president called on the youth to uphold the values of patriotism and contribute to the nation’s greater good.
Tumanda, in his keynote speech, stressed the commemoration of the anniversary of Philippine independence comes with a responsibility to create a nation that values freedom, democracy, and equality.
“We honor the legacy of our heroes by committing to excellence, integrity, and service. Our duties are not only to protect our nation from threats but also to contribute to peace, progress, and prosperity,” Tumanda said.
Mayor Sebastian Duterte was not around, but Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr. represented him.
The event drew several dignitaries, including the Consul General of the People’s Republic of China, Hon. Zhao Xiuzhen; the Consul General of Malaysia, Hon. Deddy Faisal B Ahmad Salleh; the Consul General of Indonesia, Dr. Achmad Djatmiko; and the Consul General of Japan, Hon. Yoshihisa Ishikawa.
Several military and police personnel were present including the Davao City Police, Philippine National Police, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Coast Guard District Southeastern Mindanao, Coast Guard Station Davao, Bureau of Jail Management and Penology Region XI, Bureau of Fire Protection Region XI, Task Force Davao, among others.
Photo: Bing Gonzales
