• CHRYSEE G. SAMILLANO
Bacolod Rep. Greg Gasataya reflected on the “sacrifices made by our predecessors in order for us to achieve our freedom,” during the 125th Anniversary of the Philippine Independence at the Bacolod City Public Plaza yesterday.
Gasataya, who was guest of honor and speaker, said “We hope the sacrifices they made will not go to waste in these present times…This is a call for unity and cooperation not only in Bacolod but as a whole, as we celebrate the 125th Independence Day.”
This year’s theme is “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan (Freedom, Future, History).”
Mayor Alfredo Abelardo Benitez delivered his Independence Day message, while Vice Mayor El Cid Familiaran gave the welcome remarks after the flag-raising rites that was preceded by an ecumenical prayer.
The wreath-laying ceremony at the Monument of the Unknown Soldier was attended by the 303rd Infantry Brigade of the Philippine Army led by BGen. Orlando Edralin; Gasataya, Benitez, Familiaran and members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod of Bacolod.
The closing remarks was delivered by Councilor Al Victor Espino, followed by a civic-military parade after the program, from Lizares Street to SM City-Bacolod.*
