Tacloban marks Independence, Charter Day

TACLOBAN CITY, June 12 (PNA) -- The city government here marked the 119th Philippine Independence Day and its 64th Charter Day with a short and simple ceremony at Rizal Park on Monday. 

Leading the celebration early Monday morning were Mayor Cristina Romualdez and Vice Mayor Jerry Yaokasin. Joining them are officials of the local government and Philippine National Police, city hall employees, and Boy Scouts of the Philippines members and officers.

Before the program, Romualdez led the flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying at the monument of national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

“Today, as we celebrate our Independence Day, it is my hope that we will use the inspiration that was put for by our heroes, perseverance, and love of our country to create a better nation,” Romualdez said in her message.

The mayor added that the city and the country continue to experience challenges but “it is imperative to sustain gains as a city and as a people.”

She added that local government has been stepping up efforts to sustain post-Yolanda rehabilitation efforts, attract more investments, and provide employment opportunities. 

Tacloban became a Charter city by virtue of Republic Act 760 signed by then President Elpidio Quirino on June 12, 1953. The law was sponsored by then Speaker Daniel Romualdez.

“The past 64 years are full of experiences, which we will learn for and will fonder. Let us continue to be great and it is but imperative to sustain our gain as a city and as a people,” Romualdez said.

Independence Day is an annual national holiday in the Philippines observed every June 12 commemorating the Philippine Declaration of Independence from Spain on June 12, 1898. (Roel T. Amazona/PNA)