METRO Cebu cities joined the rest of the country in marking yesterday’s 113th Philippine Independence Day in simple rites.
In Cebu City a civic military parade was held from Gorordo Avenue to the Cebu City Sports Center that was attended by City Hall employees, public and private high schools in Cebu City.
Parade participants all wore red T-shirts in homage to the heroes who fought for the country’s freedom.
The Abellana Dance Troupe presented a cultural dance interpretation of the nationalist song “ Inang Bayan.” A mass was held after the presentation.
At the sports center, white doves were released by Cebu City officials, city hall department heads and police officials to symbolize peace and freedom.
City Administrator Jose Marie Poblete stood for Mayor Michael Rama and delivered a speech to commemorate the event.
The mayor was in Israel for an international mayors convention.
In her welcome address, Councilor Margot Osmeña said Cebu City residents should be grateful to the Filipinos who fought for the country’s freedom.
“May we remember the people of the past, who fought for our independence,” Osmeña said.
In Lapu-Lapu City, a motor caravan was held from Mactan Benito Ebuen airbase to the City Hall grounds.
Mayor Paz Radaza said she will study a manifesto sent by the Olango Island community asking for independence from the city.
“History has proven that independence and self determination are the keys to reap the benefits of economic growth,” Radaza said (see related story on Page 5).
In Mandaue City, officials made a floral offering at the Rizal and Bonifacio Memorial stage followed by a mass and the release of 15 white doves representing peace and freedom.
The Mantawi Integrated Dance Company performed an interpretative number for the Edsa song “Magka-Isa (Unity).”
Cortes said in his speech that it’s important for Cebuanos to commemorate Independence Day to develop a better appreciation of the country’s hard-fought freedom. Correspondent Fatrick Tabada and Reporter Jucell Marie P. Cuyos