LUBAO -- Governor Dennis Pineda joined the 109th birth anniversary of the fifth leader of the Republic of the Philippines, former president Diosdado Pangan Macapagal on Saturday here.
According to Mayor Esmeralda Pineda, the event is being held annually to give tribute to Macapagal for the pride that he had brought in this town.
"Kahit man lang sa maliit na paraan ay nais naming pasalamatan si Apung Dadong para sa naibigay niyang karangalan sa aming bayan," said the mayor.
She also expressed her respect and admiration for Macapagal's unflinching determination in uplifting the lives of the people during his days.
"Dahil lumaki siya sa mahirap na buhay, alam niya ang pakiramdam ng mga taong nasa ibaba. Kaya't noong siya ay nasa MalacaƱang, itinaguyod niya ang mga repormang tumulong sa maraming mahihirap," she said.
Meanwhile, Congressman Juan Miguel Macapagal Arroyo, grandson of former president Macapagal, expressed his gratitude for the Pineda family for the continuous efforts they are exerting to make the legacy of his grandfather live on.
The event commenced with a mass, followed by flower offering participated by Congressman Arroyo; PLTCOL. Michael John Riego; Gina Batuhan, chief historic sites and education division; Vice Mayor Jay Montemayor; Diosdado Martin Macapagal Salgado and family; and Dr. Cleotilde Alvarado, public schools district supervisor.
Also graced the event were former Vice Governor Cielo Macapagal Salgado; Sangguniang Bayan members; Barangay Captains; and Sangguniang Kabataan chairmen. (PR)