Mandaue City placed families and quality of life at the center of its 128th Philippine Independence Day commemoration on Friday, June 12, as city officials emphasized that freedom must translate into tangible improvements in the daily lives of residents.
The celebration was led by Mayor Thadeo Jovito “Jonkie” Ouano through a flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying rites attended by city officials, government employees, uniformed personnel, and representatives from national government agencies.
Ouano said Independence Day is not only a commemoration of history but also a reminder of the continuing responsibility of government to improve the lives of citizens.
He said true development is best measured not by physical structures alone, but by how it directly benefits families.
“Para nako, ang tinuod nga kalamboan dili lamang makita sa mga bag-ong building o proyekto. Makita kini kung mas daghan ang adunay trabaho, kung mas sayon ang pag-access sa serbisyo sa gobyerno, ug kung mas maayo ang kalidad sa kinabuhi sa matag pamilya,” Ouano said.
The mayor stressed that freedom comes with responsibility, underscoring that governance should focus on creating opportunities for livelihood, improving access to public services, and ensuring that families can live with dignity.
“In Mandaue City, freedom comes with responsibility. It gives us the opportunity to build a city where families can live better lives, where businesses can prosper, and where government remains responsive, accessible, and accountable to those it serves,” he said.
Ouano also called on residents to work together with the local government in sustaining development efforts, saying nation-building is a shared task that continues beyond Independence Day.
“As One Mandaue, let us continue working hand in hand toward a city that is progressive, inclusive, resilient, and prepared for the future,” he said.
He added that the responsibility of building the nation did not end with independence, but continues in communities, workplaces, and daily acts of public service.
“The work of nation-building did not end when our independence was declared. It continues every day in our communities, in our workplaces, and in the way we serve and care for one another,” Ouano said.
As part of the celebration, city officials and employees offered flowers in honor of national heroes, followed by a 21-gun salute.
Cultural performances by the Mandaue City Cultural Dance Troupe and Cubacub Martial Arts Club also highlighted key moments in Philippine history.
The ceremony was attended by Vice Mayor Glenn Bercede, members of the City Council, barangay officials, and representatives from DepEd, DILG, BFP, BJMP, the Philippine Coast Guard, Armed Forces of the Philippines, Mandaue City Police Office, and the private sector.
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