Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson said that June 12, Independence Day, “is more than just a date on the calendar, but a constant reminder of every Filipino’s solemn duty to preserve liberty, promote inclusive development, and work for the betterment of the lives of all Filipinos.”
“Today, more than just remembering, we must once again rededicate ourselves to protect, nurture, and ensure that our democracy will flourish,” he said in his message at the 126th Independence Day celebration at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City.
The governor also urged everyone to remain unified as a nation and transcend self-interests, political differences, and regional, cultural, and social divisions.
Lacson acknowledged in a Capitol press release the unwavering dedication and sacrifices of those who responded and helped the victims of the recent eruption of Mt. Kanlaon.
“On this historic day, let us also thank all the men and women who serve our country with dedication and selflessness, particularly in light of the recent eruption of Kanlaon—the troops, healthcare workers, emergency responders, volunteers, public servants, and all those who contribute to the safety and advancement of our society,” he stressed.
This year’s Independence Day celebration, on the theme “Kasaysayan, Kalayaan, Kinabukasan”, was also attended by Board Members Jeffrey Tubola, Pal Guanzon, Araceli Somosa, Valentino Miguel Alonso, and Andrew Martin Torres, Negros Occidental Police Provincial Office director, Col. Rainerio De Chavez; 303rd Brigade commander, Gen. Orlando Edralin; Negros Occidental Provincial fire marshal, F/SSupt. Arnold Alba, DepEd Negros Occ. Schools Division superintendent Anthony Liobet, and representatives of national government agencies and nongovernment organizations, and Capitol department heads and employees, among others. ||
