ILOILO CITY (PIA) — Delegates of the Boys Scouts of the Philippines (BSP) and Girl Scouts of the Philippines (GSP) from Iloilo, who joined the city government’s Independence Day highlight, expressed their ideas on its value among the youngsters.
San Miguel town native and Rover Scout Charles Matthew Tañagras shared that being part of the BSP entails opportunities such as the citizenship training which further hones patriotism for one’s country.
“It reminds us sa amon nga scouts and also as citizens nga amon involvement indi lang limited sa camping. Ga-intra man kami sa activities nga naga-empower sang amon pagka-Pilipino, one of which is the Independence Day,” according to Tañagras.
(It reminds us that as scouts and citizens, our involvement is not only limited to camping. We also join activities that empower the being of a Filipino and one of which is the Independence Day.)
He also cited the relevance of Independence Day to free thinking, enabling to decide on the formulation of policies for the benefit of the Filipinos.
For Girl Scout Charen Palma of Jaro National High School, she attributed the meaningful commemoration of Independence Day to the bravery of the forefathers who have fought for the country against its oppressors.
Meanwhile, lady scout Francine Claire Laurea has a high regard in celebrating this eventful day, noting that it is a triumph bearing a significant share of Philippine history.
Despite her busy schedule being a Medical Laboratory Science student intern, Laurea took time to attend the Independence Day celebration as her own way of respecting the people who were instrumental in achieving the country’s freedom.
“Gusto ko gid siya i-celebrate because I’d like to give back and honor those people or heroes who were part of the reasons why we have our independence right now,” Laurea said.
(I want to celebrate this because I’d like to give back and honor those people or heroes who were part of the reasons why we have our independence right now)
Iloilo National High School student and Boy Scout Karl Nezaelle Arroyo, for his part, reflected on the glorious past of the country which nurtured the dreams of today’s generation.
Every year the city government holds the Independence Day Celebration at Plaza Libertad where the Philippine flag was raised in triumph after the Spaniards surrendered Iloilo, their last capital in the Philippines on December 25, 1898.
City Vice Mayor Jeffrey Ganzon, who read the message on behalf of City Mayor Jerry Treñas, said this year’s celebration underscored the impact of preserving the culture and heritage that served as timeless bricks connecting generations.
“Our culture and tradition is a legacy that we pass down to future generations ensuring that they, too, can take pride in their identity as Filipinos, ” he stated.
The city government likewise acknowledged the strong support of the private sector, schools, museums, and cultural institutions who play a huge role in preserving the Ilonggo culture through their various endeavors.
Among those who also participated were the local city officials, city government department heads and employees, and members of the Philippine National Police. (AAL/LMLE/PIA Iloilo)
