THE City of San Fernando joined this year’s National Flag Day by honoring the flag on Tuesday, May 28, with a program that was attended by a cross-section of Fernandino society, including local government officials and private sector representatives at the Heroes Hall.

Mayor Edwin Santiago highlighted the importance of looking back on the country’s history as we move forward towards nation building.

Before leading the ceremonial turnover of the flag to the attendees, the mayor encouraged Fernandinos, especially those in the private sector, to be involved with his administration. Their participation in governance is an indication of an efficient and effective government, he said.

As part of the program, the Salute to the Flag was rendered by Mason Aldin Mari of the Pampanga Masonic Lodge 45.

Flags were also symbolically distributed to barangay and school officials by Santiago, local officials and Pyestang Fernandino chairperson Jim Jimenez.

Santiago has encouraged every Fernandino to display the Philippine flag in all offices and private residences as a sign of unity in this celebration that will culminate on Philippine Independence Day on June 12.

The National Flag Day Kickoff Program is part of the activities that the Fiesta Executive Committee, composed of private citizens and city hall officials, has lined up for Pyestang Fernandino 2014.