Emphasizing the important role of the youth in nation building, the Dumaguete local government invited the city’s incumbent Sangguniang Kabataan Federation vice-president, Crissan Charls Bantaya, as keynote speaker in the 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration at Pantawan People’s Park Rizal Boulevard.
Bantaya, who recently graduated magna cum laude from Silliman University, paid tribute “to the many heroes, who sacrificed their lives and comfort, so we will gain independence from tyrannical rule”.
He called on his fellow youth and all citizens to steadfastly stand for truth, justice, and unity so that we can truly call ourselves a free nation. “We still need to address the corrosive effects of corruption, the enduring presence of political dynasties, the pervasive poverty, and even instances of vote-buying that devalue the sacred right of suffrage as a mere transaction.”
Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan”, Bantaya stressed that these concepts are interconnected. “Our Kasaysayan gave us our Kalayaan. Our Kalayaan empowers us to shape our Kinabukasan. And our Kinabukasan is the continuation of our Kasaysayan.”
Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo, who led the commemoration, presented a token of appreciation to Bantaya, who has been awarded a full scholarship at the University of Cebu College of Law.
Remollo said he hopes that Bantaya’s valiant and inspiring message will resonate not only to his fellow youth but also to Filipinos of all ages and persuasion, the city said.
The ceremony, held before the life-size statue of national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, featured the traditional raising of the Philippine Flag, wreath-laying, drum roll, three-volley salute and taps, and prayers.
Local talent Jude Pacatang also sang the patriotic song “Bayanihan”, written and composed by Christian Dumaplin, at the event attended by city officials, uniformed personnel, teachers and administrators from the Department of Education, Silliman University, Foundation University, Saint Paul University Dumaguete, Colegio de Santa Catalina de Alejandria, Negros Oriental State University, members/representatives of the Negros Oriental Siquijor Girl Scouts Council, Negros Oriental Boys Scouts Council, Negros Oriental Electric Cooperative II, Land Bank of the Philippines, Philippine Veterans Bank, DCCCO, GSIS, Army Reserve, Independent Order of Odd Fellows, Department of Foreign Affairs-Dumaguete, Knights of Rizal, senior citizens, students, and the civil society. ||
