Independence Day celebrations to highlight respect for flag, Arroyo achievements

Philippine Independence Day celebrations this year will involve ceremonies highlighting respect and veneration for the country’s flag and enumerating achievements of President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo’s nine-year term, an official familiar with the preparations said. The country’s 112th Independence Day will carry the theme "Kalayaan, Tagumpay ng Bayan" (Freedom, Victory for the People), will be launched with the observance of the "Araw ng Watawat" (National Flag Day), which will start on May 28, National Historical Commission Inc. Executive Director Ludovico Badoy said. On that day, Education Secretary Mona Valisno is expected to attend a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Battle of Alapan site in Imus in Cavite. This site is where the first Philippine flag was hoisted by then General Emilio Aguinaldo 112 years ago after the country’s scored its first victory against the Spaniards. Starting May 28, the national flag will also be raised and hoisted in different buildings, government offices, schools, establishments, and even homes. The National Historical Commission has already began distributing Philippine flags in different areas, Badoy said. "We appeal to you to wear and show our national colors proudly, display the flag at our offices, at homes and at every opportune time," Executive Secretary Leandro Mendoza said on Wednesday. On June 12, Independence Day, a simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony will take place at 7 a.m. It will be led by President Arroyo at the Luneta Park who will be assisted by local government officials. An 11-float civic-military parade is also being prepared for the afternoon of June 12, which in turn will feature President Arroyo’s achievements. The event will also recognize the contributions of Filipino icons such as boxer Manny Pacquiao, educator Efren Peñaflorida, and world billiards champion Efren "Bata" Reyes. These globally-recognized Filipinos are expected to ride on the last motorized float, which is called "Inang Bayan." They have already been invited and plans are underway to bestow special recognition to these Filipino achieves, he said. Some P10 million has been allotted for the Independence Day celebrations, Badoy said. He added that Arroyo is expected to make her “last report to the nation" about what has happened in the last nine years since she assumed the presidency on Jan. 20, 2001. The President would also host the annual Independence Day Vin d' Honneur event with the diplomatic community in Malacañang over lunch. - RJAB Jr., GMANews.TV