Youth group mulls Freedom Tower in Iloilo

A NATIONWIDE idealistic youth organization is planning to lead the construction of a monument with an eternal flame in Iloilo dedicated to the late President Corazon Aquino and other Filipina heroines.

The project to be known as the Freedom Tower with Eternal Flame for Freedom Regained will be spearheaded by the Samahan ng Bagong Kabataan (SBK) Iloilo Chapter, in appreciation for the historical struggles of the Filipino people so that the present youth will not forget the fight and restoration of freedom started in 1986.

The project, which is seen to be similar to the JFK Memorial in the United States, is also expected to awaken the silent majority into action in defending freedom as inspired by the “Cory Story” that toppled an authoritarian regime in a bloodless revolution that stunned the whole world.

Industrialist Mike Plana of Zarraga, Iloilo, a first quarter storm survivor while in college, will lead the project in preserving the gains of freedom with the help of local youth leaders, students and farmers in the countrysides.

Plana, an SBK national leader, will lead the proposed Freedom Tower to be built soon in Sta. Barbara, Iloilo with Mayor Dennis Superficial giving his endorsement to the project.

The Freedom Tower project is eyed as a symbol of freedom from tyranny and as a sanctuary for the youth of Iloilo with an eternal flame, giving warmth and fresh vigor for the students to hope for a better tomorrow.

The project is seen as a reminder of the 40th year of Martial Law implemented by the Marcos dictatorship in 1972.

SBK leaders and Martial Law students such as WVCST President Dr. Luis Sorolla, Commission on Human Rights Regional Director David Bermudo, lawyer Juius Elvas of the University of San Agustin, and businessman Joel Adrias of Injap Foundation will spearhead the project in Iloilo.

Philanthropist Margarita Cojuangco, wife of presidential uncle Peping Cojuangco, has assured staunch support to the project. (LCP/Sunnex)