Good Governance - a symbol of true independence says Pili mayor

By Analiza S. Macatangay

PILI, CAMARINES SUR, June 13 (PIA) -- “Good governance and transparency - these are the true essence of the celebration of the Philippine Independence Day. This is how we repay the great deed that our forefathers and fallen heroes have done for us just to give us our much coveted freedom.”

Thus said Pili Mayor Tomas Bongalonta on Tuesday's commemoration of the 114th Philippine Independence Day held at the Plaza de Cimarrones, this town.

After the historic wreath laying ceremony, LGU Pili was joined by the provincial government of Camarines Sur represented by Vice Governor Fortunato Pena and other heads of various national agencies in the flag raising of different Filipino flags as it evolved from the Katipunan flag up to the current flag that we have now.

Heads of various government agencies also led the raising of different flags from Bonifacio’s Katipunan war, the first Philippine flag, Sun of Liberty, Llanera’s Skull flag, and the Magtagumpay War standard, all symbolizing the struggle for freedom waged by our ancestors.

In Naga City, Mayor John Bongat also spearheaded the Independence Day celebration together with the city officials and heads of various government institutions. The celebration started with the blowing of sirens participated in by the Bureau of Fire Protection, Chin Po Tong Volunteer Fire Brigade, and the Naga White Fire Volunteers. The traditional 21-gun salute and pass-in-review followed next.

Bongat, in his message, reiterated the significance of treasuring the sovereignty that we are enjoying now.

“We should always put in mind that our forefathers have fought hard just to ensure that the next generation will savor the sweet taste of independence. Let us not put that in vain, let us work together towards the development of our country, let us stand united in every endeavor and stand as one nation.” (MAL/ASM/PIA 5-Camarines Sur)