HEROES HILL, FREEDOM PARK RENAMED TO HEROES PARK
By: Rafael C. Mosuela GPC-SP | Photos By: GPC-SP | Date: August 10, 2021
The Provincial Government of La Union has officially renamed the Heroes Hill and Freedom Park to HEROES PARK through Provincial Ordinance 322-2021 approved last August 10, 2021.
Board Member Nancy M. Bacurnay, author of ordinance explained that the Heroes Hill and Freedom Park at the eastern portion of the Capitol Hill feature nine (9) statues of national heroes, signifying the people’s reverence for their works and sacrifices in attaining the country’s freedom.
“Freedom Park” is usually established under Batas Pambansa Blg. 880, otherwise known as “The Public Assembly Act of 1985,” particularly Section 15 for demonstrations and meetings or a place where anybody could speak anything they want to say.
However, the structure at Capitol Hill was built to remind the people of the contribution of the country’s heroes to nation building and not for demonstrations and meetings to take place.
The new name Heroes Park is intended to replace the original Heroes Hill and Freedom Park as stated on one of the whereas clauses of the ordinance approved by the Sangguniang Panlalawigan of the Province of La Union. In the same ordinance, it was noted that the old name “Freedom Park” is inappropriate, and renaming the same, and the setting of activities at the park will help bring back in the minds and hearts of the people the sacrifices and heroism of the country’s national heroes.
She further states that under the Local Government Code of 1991, the Sangguniang Panlalawigan may, in consultation with the Philippine Historical Commission (PHC), change the name of any other public place or building owned by the provincial government within its territorial jurisdiction.
Board Member Bacurnay said an initial amount of Php 50,000.00 is appropriated annually from the General Fund of the Province which shall cover the expenses in the implementation of the ordinance which includes the following, but not limited to, wreaths, meals and snacks, supplies and materials, tarpaulins, and other miscellaneous expenses.
Meanwhile, Vice Governor Mario Eduardo C. Ortega expresses his full support of the said ordinance to promote and stir patriotism and nationalism to all, especially the youth. Gov. Pacoy Ortega approved the ordinance and expressed enthusiasm that the more contributes to instilling sense and pride of the residents as we build a Stronger La Union, a province worth living in.
