LGU Ozamiz honors heroes, veterans who fought for freedom

by Shaine Mae R. Nagtalon

The City Government of Ozamiz celebrates the Philippine Independence Day with a wreath-laying ceremony at the Prospera Park, Ozamiz City, June 12,2023. (AONC)

The city government of Ozamiz joined the whole nation in commemorating the 125th Philippine Independence Day 2023 with the theme "Kalayaan, Kinabukasan Kasaysayan" in giving honor and gratitude to heroes and veterans who fought for freedom.

The commemoration was held at the City Hall Grounds, Prospera Park, Ozamiz City, to remember the bravery and sacrifices of our forefathers who valiantly fought against Spanish colonial rule.

It also served as a reminder of the importance of independence and the value of our sovereignty.

Mayor Henry "Indy" Oaminal Jr., together with Vice Mayor Simplicia Neri, led the wreath-laying ceremony at the monument to Dr. Jose Rizal, along with officials, members of various national and local government agencies, and others.

Mayor Oaminal recognized the crucial role that Philippine heroes played in shaping the country's history and its people.

"We commemorate Independence Day to give honor and express our gratitude to our heroes, our veterans, and all those who fought and those who continue to fight for our freedom. We are very lucky and blessed that they were successful and that we are able to enjoy that freedom today and on a daily basis," he said.

The mayor highlighted the significance of celebrating independence every day by engaging in positive actions, abiding by the rules, and contributing to the nation-building process.

He also emphasized the importance of individual responsibility in upholding the ideals of independence.

Meanwhile, Philippine National Police Chief Police General Benjamin Acorda Jr., in his message, which was read by Ozamiz City Police Chief, Police Major Dennis Tano, said PNP remains steadfast in maintaining peace and order and the country's hard-fought independence and commemorating the forebears' sacrifices.

"Sa pagdiriwang ng araw ng kalayaan itaguyod natin ang diwa ng pagkakaisa at pagmamahal sa bayan bilang pagparangal at pagpapasalamat sa lahat ng ating ninuno, bayani, bayani ng makabagong panahon, at ang mga bayani ng ating hanay na nag alay ng giting, galing at buhay para sa ating bansa at mamayang Pilipino," he said.

(In the celebration of Independence Day, let's uphold the spirit of unity and love for our country as a way of honoring and thanking all our ancestors, heroes, heroes of the modern era, and the heroes of our Police who sacrificed their bravery, skills, and lives for our country and the Filipino people.)

The 125th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence in Ozamiz City served as a reminder of the nation's hard-fought struggle for freedom and the ongoing commitment to uphold its values. (SMRN/PIA-10/Misamis Occidental)