LA UNION CELEBRATES 127TH PHILIPPINE INDEPENDENCE DAY WITH SPIRIT OF UNITY, PATRIOTISM
By: Joy Ann L. Gurtiza, GPC-LUPTO | Photos By: Mark Jansen Ballesteros and Vincent Aguinaldo, PIO | Date: June 12, 2025
In celebration of the 127th anniversary of Philippine independence, the Provincial Government of La Union (PGLU) commemorated the historic occasion on June 12, 2025, at Capitol Grounds of the La Union Provincial Capitol, City of San Fernando, La Union.
The event centered around the theme "Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan." (Freedom. Future. History.), emphasizing the importance of honoring our forebears’ sacrifices while fostering a brighter future for the nation.
The ceremony was attended by Board Member Cynthia Angelica M. Bacurnay, Board Secretary Jane Flores, Ph.D., Dr. Eleazar Belgica, PGLU department heads and representatives from various offices and district hospitals.
The program commenced with a flag-raising ceremony, paying tribute to the heroes who fought for independence. Pre-positioned wreaths symbolized respect and reverence for those who sacrificed their lives for freedom, reaffirming the community’s gratitude and solemn remembrance of their heroic deeds.
A message from Governor Raphaelle Veronica “Rafy” Ortega-David was delivered by Dr. Belgica. In her speech, the governor conveyed an inspiring call to uphold the legacy of freedom through fairness, love, and compassion. She emphasized the importance of collective responsibility, “Kaya naman, in the spirit of freedom, may we let fairness and love reign. Siguraduhin po natin na ang bawat aksyon na ating gagawin ay hindi makakasama para sa iba. Magmalasakit at makipagkapwa-tao. Unahin po sana natin ang kapakanan ng iba, lalo na ng mga mahihirap. At i-alok natin ang ating mga kakayahan nang walang inaasahang kapalit. Isabuhay po natin ang tunay na #LaUnionPROBINSYAnihan para sa probinsya at para sa bansa.”
Another highlight of the celebration was a powerful spoken poetry performance by Dulaang ELYU, which captured the essence of patriotism and national pride. The poets’ heartfelt verses resonated with the audience, reminding everyone of the sacrifices made for freedom and inspiring a collective sense of hope and unity for the future of the Philippines.
The ceremony culminated with patriotic songs, including “Ako ay Pilipino” and “Waya-Waya,” performed by Maria Yna Dizon, further fueling the patriotic spirit among attendees.
Across the province, Local Government Units held their own flag-raising ceremonies, reinforcing a collective celebration of independence. The event served as a reminder of all Philippine heroes’ sacrifices and as a rallying call for continued unity and progress toward a brighter future for La Union and the Philippines.
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