MALL goers in Cagayan de Oro City were once again reminded of the importance of the Philippine flag, which was first raised 121 years ago signifying the independence of the country, and the efforts of our ancestors in fighting for freedom.
“Ngayong araw inaanyayaan ang lahat na tangkilikin ang sariling atin at ipagmalaki ang kulturang Pilipino. Mga kaibigan, 121 na taon na ang nakalipas mula noong pormal na pinatugtog ang pambansang awit at iniwagayway ang ating pambansang bandila sa Kawit, Cavite bilang sagisag ng isang malaya at nagkakaisang bansang Pilipinas,” Bernadette Flores, SM City Cagayan de Oro mall manager, said.
On Wednesday morning, June 12, SM Cagayan de Oro mall management, workers, and security guards and the Department of Tourism (DOT)-Northern Mindanao officials marked the celebration of the 121st Independence Day with a short parade and flag raising ceremony held at SM City Cagayan de Oro in Pueblo de Oro, uptown, this city.
They were joined by Miss Teen Philippines 2019 Nikki de Moura and her family, members of the Cagayan de Oro Federation of Senior Citizens Association (Cafesca) and the Philippine National Police.
Talaandig artist Rodelio “Waway” Saway, who is a well-known soil painter in Bukidnon, also showcased his artworks in an exhibit located in the event center of SM City Cagayan de Oro., highlighting his Philippine flag painting.
Flores, in her message, said that while everyone is celebrating Independence Day, apart from remembering each of our triumphs, we should also recall the efforts and struggles of our ancestors in attaining the freedom that we all enjoy and living.
“Hayaan ang kanilang dakilang sakripisyo maging inspirasyon natin para tayo ay sumisikap ngayon na palakasin ang ating minamahal na republika bilang isang makapangyarihang ekonomiya at isang buhay na dinidignidad at kapayapaan para sa bawat Pilipino,” Flores said.