“FREEDOM should be exercised with responsibility,” otherwise it could be used to enslave others, said Mandaue City Mayor Jonas Cortes in his Independence Day speech in City Hall.
In Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Paz Radaza called on Oponganons to emulate the bravery of Datu Lapu-Lapu in defending freedom.
A holy mass, flag raising and floral offering at the Rizal-Bonifacio stage next to City Hall followed the program.
Teachers performed a dance depicting the Filipinos struggle for independence. Doves were released to symbolize freedom.
Mayor Cortes said the freedom we enjoy today is the product of the sacrifice of heroes who died fighting against foreign invaders.
“We are free to do what we want, but we are not free to choose the consequences of our actions.”
“Our heroes died with dignity. Sila’y naghago, kita’y namu-po (They strived for this, we just harvested from what they sowed)), so we must treasure it.”
For 12-year-old John Alfonso Abano, freedom in the Philippines is not complete.
The grade six pupil of Opao Elementary School said there was still corruption in government and Filipinos are not united.
Radaza meanwhile said Oponganons can find inspiration in Lapu-Lapu, the first Filipino hero to resist a foreign invader, as the city faces challenges in bringing sustainable progress in the city.
Radaza challenged people to remain steadfast and efficient, to be models of good faith and to be brave like Datu Lapu-Lapu in leading the people to a better city.
“We must show the entire nation the unity and pride of the Oponganons.” said Radaza. /Fe Marie D. Dumaboc and Norman Mendoza, Correspondent