The Provincial Government of Ifugao commemorated the 125th Independence Day in Poblacion North, Lagawe, Ifugao on June 12, 2023, by honoring the bravery, valor, sacrifice and patriotism that our forefathers have sewn and have selflessly died for.
With the theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan”, the program was led by Governor Jerry U. Dalipog with (Ret.) PCI Corazon Baliwang, President of the Veteran of the Philippines-Ifugao, Chapter, Police Colonel (PCOL) Davy Vicente M. Limmong, Provincial Director of Ifugao, Lieutenant Colonel (LTC) Emmanuel L. Diasen Jr., and Lagawe Mayor Martin L. Habawel Jr.
Various government agencies in Lagawe attended the program, including the Philippines National Police (PNP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Drug Enforcement Agency (PDEA), Bureau of Jail Management and Penology (BJMP), Highway Patrol Group (HPG), Veterans of the Philippines-Ifugao Chapter, Girl Scouts of the Philippines-Ifugao GS Council, and others.
The program was graced by the message of Limmong to the community.
He encouraged everyone to unite us one people transcending barrier of culture, language and geography and work towards a future where the dreams of the ancestors begin the reality of the children.
“We can build a Philippines where the Ifugao and all the indigenous peoples groups are respected. Their tradition and voices are heard, where their wisdom and resilience continue to inspire each and everyone as they take the quest of life for a better tomorrow,“ underscored Limmong
Governor Jerry U. Dalipog also reiterated: “In the celebration of the Independence Day we honor and commemorate the indommunatable and resilient spirits of our heroes”.
He also explained that “this vulnerable value had paved the way for us, the gift of democracy and freedom which we now enjoy in this sovereign nation, that is free and wholely own and controlled by us Filipino.”
“This right has allowed us to travel mountain, cross rivers and go beyond borders without fear and with all favors. No hindrance or strain,” Dalipog expressed.
Dalipog emphasized to continue learning the history of the Philippine Independence by honoring the past and celebrating the present. “Let this commemoration be a celebration, not only by instrumentable contribution and sacrifices to our heroes.”
Dalipog reminded the Ifugaos as they endeavor to enjoy freedom to “secure our future in working together and moving forward. We must ensure to pass unto our children the burning passion of loving our nation. May we help and guide them on their ways, let us ensure that we keep the flame of patriotism, bravery and heroism burn more brightly.” By Gloria A. Thomas