A statue in Cebu stood as a silent reminder of courage on Independence Day, even as local leaders across the province called on Filipinos to carry forward the values of unity, service, and sacrifice.
Cebu leaders marked the 128th Philippine Independence Day on June 12 with separate messages reflecting on freedom and the legacy of Filipino heroes, with emphasis on governance, public service, and nation-building.
In Cebu Province, Governor Pamela Baricuatro said the celebration is a reminder of the courage of national heroes, particularly Datu Lapu-Lapu, whose legacy continues to inspire Filipinos.
Baricuatro shared a personal reflection, saying she often looks at the statue of Datu Lapu-Lapu from the windows of the People’s Gallery outside her office, especially during moments when the demands of leadership feel heavy.
She said those moments remind her that courage is not the absence of difficulty but the ability to remain firm in the face of challenges, adding that leadership should unite people rather than divide them.
The governor said honoring Independence Day also means setting aside political differences and focusing on service and development for the public.
“Cebuanos deserve leadership that unites rather than separates, that listens rather than attacks, and that focuses on solutions rather than noise,” Baricuatro said.
She added that the provincial government remains committed to ensuring that the freedoms fought for by the country’s heroes translate into improved lives for Cebuano families.
Baricuatro also called on the public to embody unity and resilience in daily life, saying, “Mabuhi ang Sugbo. Mabuhi ang Pilipinas.”
In Mandaue City, Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano said Independence Day is a reminder that freedom carries responsibility, particularly in building a city that supports families and improves access to public services.
He said development should be measured not only through infrastructure projects but also through the quality of life experienced by residents.
“Kay para nato, ang tinuod nga kalamboan dili lamang makita sa mga proyekto, kundili sa mas maayong kalidad sa kinabuhi,” Ouano said.
In Cebu City, Mayor Nestor Archival said Independence Day is both a celebration of freedom and a reminder of the continuing duty to uphold unity, integrity, and public service.
He said the participation of government personnel, uniformed services, and community groups in commemorative activities reflects a shared commitment to national progress.
Archival added that Filipinos must continue to protect the values inherited from the country’s heroes and work toward a more inclusive and progressive future.
In Lapu-Lapu City, Mayor Ma. Cynthia “Cindi” King-Chan led a wreath-laying ceremony at the Liberty Shrine, where local officials paid tribute to Datu Lapu-Lapu and other historical figures.
She said the site serves as a lasting reminder of the courage and sacrifice that shaped the country’s freedom.
King-Chan added that Independence Day is not only a commemoration of history but also a continuing responsibility to govern with integrity and compassion.
Across Cebu, local officials used the 128th Independence Day celebration to highlight themes of unity, responsibility, and service, as communities reflected on the meaning of freedom and the enduring legacy of national heroes.
Photo courtesy of Cebu Province
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