NAGA CITY, April 10 (PIA) --- As it joins the entire nation in commemorating the 73rd year of Araw ng Kagitingan or Day of Valor, this city also celebrated today the 70th death anniversary of one of Bicol’s valiant heroes, Lt. Delfin C. Rosales and the observance of Philippine Veteran’s week.
In a meaningful yet brief ceremony held at the Naga City hall grounds this morning, Mayor John G. Bongat reiterated the reason why we have to honor and remember our fallen heroes and live by heart what was written in the historical pages of our forebears’ struggles, including the sacrifices made by our forefathers.
“It is only fitting, that we should not only commemorate, but make the spirit of these dead alive, not only in our minds, but also in our hearts. What is most important in this gathering is the understanding of what we are commemorating and how this understanding will be applied in our present lives, whatever our status is in the government. We remember them since they sacrificed not only for themselves, but for our people and for our nation,” Bongat said.
Bongat added that as Naguenos celebrate these three significant events, they also have to remember the reason behind the death, martyrdom and sacrifices of these great men of courage. He then challenged everyone to bring out that “hero” inside them by simply looking at the spectrum of sacrifice as a worthy endeavor.
“What is the effect of this to me as a Nagueno … as a Filipino? If you are a teacher, teach well; if you are a Policeman, find ways to give Naguenos that sense of security that they will walk with peace of mind, without fear. We at the City hall, what do we have to do to make our clients happy? That will be through genuine public service. The buzz word is sacrifice.”
Bongat was joined by all the members of the Sangguniang Panlunsod, various Department Heads and office personnel, including the members of the media in remembering these significant occasions.
The officers and men of the 9th Infantry Division, Philippine Army carried the wreath and rendered the 21 volley fire in honor of the fallen heroes and in recognition of their great sacrifices in order to give their countrymen their much coveted freedom. The unified troops which include the 9th ID, PA, Naga City Police Office of the Phillippine National Police (PNP) and the Naga City Fire Station, Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP) rendered the hand salutes.
Hon. Salvador G. Cajot, Philippine Veterans Federation District Commander of Camarines Sur expressed his gratitude to Bongat for the city government’s untiring support to the plight of the veterans. (LSMacatangay, PIAV/Camarines Sur)