THE CITY’S brand of freedom is the presence of dignity and discipline within the Davaoeños, Senator Ronald “Bato” dela Rosa said on Wednesday, June 12.
“Our freedom is born on the streets rid of trash and crime and people who have learned to love the ways of peace and order, the kind of freedom that allows us to say with certainty, davao city life is here,” Bato said in his keynote speech for the city government’s celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day at Rizal Park.
The senator also led the wreath-laying ceremony, along with the Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain Jr., at the monument of Dr. Jose P. Rizal.
Bato stressed that the success of Davao City can be credited to pedestrians who use the crosswalks, drivers who follow the speed limit, Davaoeños who refrain from smoking in public places or littering the streets, and all motorcycle drivers who wear helmets on their heads and not carry them by their elbows.
He added that the city achieved its peace with discipline and intelligent obedience to a leader who sacrificed to achieve and sustain true order, referring to former President Rodrigo Duterte.
Bato stressed this year’s celebration is with a “heavy heart” with the absence of Duterte.
“Right now I know we are celebrating with heavy hearts kay og bout hunahunaon lisod maglipay lipay independence kunohay pero intawn si mayor Rody nahimong piniriso sa langyaw nga lugar,” he said.
“It hurts, but we cannot, must not, lose hope,” he added.
Duterte is currently detained in the Hague, Netherlands, to face the International Criminal Court in connection with charges of crimes against humanity.
“This city will never forget you, we are still your people, you are still our beloved mayor, and while we continue to do everything to bring you home, we shall continue what you started, a strong, secure, and sovereign Philippines,” Bato stressed.
He emphasized that the future is the responsibility of the present time, and with strong leadership, it will be remembered for generations.
“Let the people remember that Davao stood firm not just for one man but for every Filipino who believes that justice must serve the people, not just for the powerful few who sit in expensive homes,” he added.
