DdO’s PH Freedom Day celebration calls for unity to sustain peace and social change

Nabunturan, Davao de Oro – In celebration of the 125th Independence Day and nationhood of the country, the Provincial Government of Davao de Oro, together with the security sectors and other partner agencies, called for unity to sustain gains of peace and continued positive social change in the province.

The call to action took place at the Provincial Capitol in Nabunturan town during the ceremonial activity on Monday, June 12, 2023, which also marked the country’s commemoration of freedom from Spain as it was declared in former/first President Emilio Aguinaldo’s home in Kawit, Cavite, on June 12, 1898.

With this year’s theme “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan”, the celebration commenced with a reading of the history of Philippine Independence, followed by an entrance of colors, flag hoisting, and singing of the national anthem, signifying the rise of the nation from 333 years of oppression.

In her solidarity message, Joy James “Ka Amihan” Sagino, a rescued friend (FR), thanked the government for their joint efforts to combat insurgency. She urged unity to achieve genuine peace, progress, and development among the communities.

“Today is not only a celebration of our hard-earned independence but also a day of a call to action… our collective responsibility to build a society where Filipinos thrive and succeed. Let us not be fined by the conflicts of our past but let us be driven by the boldness to dream of a better future,” Amihan said.

Amihan also reminded leaders of the government to remain steadfast in their commitment to prioritize the needs of the marginalized, the forgotten, and the voiceless.

“May our actions be a testament to our enduring love for our motherland as we work tirelessly to create a country that shines as a beacon of hope for the world.. mabunay ang pilipinas!” Amihan added.

Governor Dorothy Montejo-Gonzaga led the flower offering or entry of the wreath right after the rendition of “Bayan ko” and community singing of “Ako ay Pilipino”. Acting Provincial Fire Marshall Donald Conception represented by Compostela Fire Marshal Patricio Brañanola Jr, Provincial Police Officer Benedicto Faco, and 1001st Brigade Commander Ronnie Babac escorted her during the offering.

“Let’s take the challenge to be the voice of the voiceless and our marginalized sectors, ato na kanunay ipahinumdom sa atong mga pubic officials, employees ug lakip na atong mga atong kapulisan ug kasundaluhan, atong dawatun ang hagit ni Ka Amihan” stressed Governor Gonzaga in her message.

Governor Gonzaga reiterated the significance of the whole-of-nation approach as a driver of positive change in the province. She encouraged everyone to work together and make the people feel that the government truly works.

“We should give more meaning to how and what is to be free or to be independent. Manghinaot ko nga magsiga atong mga mata, maminanaw atong mga dalunggan ug bation nato ang mas labaw nga panginahanglan sa atong katawhan” Governor Gonzaga added.

Following the wreath-laying ceremony, the Philippine military fired a 21-gun salute in honor of the national flag and the fallen heroes who fought for the country’s independence.

Major General Jose Eriel Niembra, 10th Infantry (Agila) Division Commander, underscored in his message said that the security sector is committed to its duty of serving and protecting the beloved country.

“Rest assured that the Agila troopers will continue to embody the values of honor, patriotism, and duty… but remember that independence is not solely the responsibility of the military alone, it is a shared responsibility among Filipinos,” said Niembra.

Further, selected PNP officers demonstrated their unit’s unity through a fancy drill or a display of rifle drill executions. A viewing of the static display and kalayaan exhibit was held at the Capitol lobby right after the drill.

Under Republic Act No. 4166 of 1964, every year’s twelfth day of June is declared Philippine Independence Day, and all Filipinos are prompted to observe it with appropriate rites. (Jaynus Fernandez, Photos by Albert Dayao)