PRESIDENTIAL Assistant for the Visayas Secretary Michael Lloyd Dino called on Filipinos to consider the victory of Lapu-Lapu in the Battle of Mactan as an inspiration in the fight against coronavirus.
This was the message of Secretary Dino at the start of the 100-day countdown towards the 2021 Quincentennial Commemorations in the Philippines (QCP) on Sunday, January 17.
The Philippines is set to mark the 500th anniversary of the Victory at Mactan, the Philippine part in the first circumnavigation of the world, on April 27, 2021.
The battle of Mactan depicts the Filipino's serious yearning and regard for liberty and independence, Secretary Dino noted in a speech read by Assistant Secretary Anthony Gerard "Jonji" Gonzales in Lapu-Lapu Monument in Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City.
"This history dates way back before we were even colonized, which proves that the spirit of independence and heroism runs deep in the blood of Filipinos," he added.
Dino urged Filipinos to succeed in the battle against Covid-19 just like the victorious Lapu-Lapu during the Battle of Mactan.
He added that the administration of President Duterte, with the help of Senator Christopher Lawrence "Bong" Go, has been very committed to winning the fight against Covid-19.
"While we hope for the best, it is safe to say that we just couldn’t simply return to our old lives. CovidOVID-19 is already in our midst and the way we follow the health protocols wouldn’t just be an option but a necessity embedded in our daily lives."
The Secretary also feels confident that the whole Quincentennial Commemoration of the Philippines celebration would serve as proof that the country is ready to safely conduct its tourism activities.
"I also hope that the Quincentennial Commemorations, as it would spur economic activities and attract tourists, would accelerate the revival of our tourism industry and revitalize our economy. After all, the Visayas is a gem for tourism and heritage," he added.
Meanwhile, the launching of Lapu-Lapu's P5,000 banknote and a commemorative coin was held on Monday, January 18.
And on April 27, there will be the Quincentennial TV Special of the 500th Anniversary of the Victory of Mactan Commemorative Rites. Other activities are also scheduled before the commemoration of the Battle of Mactan
These include the Groundbreaking of the Guiuan Museum on March 16; Visitation of the Spanish Navy training ship Juan Sebastian Elcano on March 24-26; Inauguration of the Battle of Mactan Diorama on March 27; 500th anniversary of the mass in Limasawa, Southern Leyte on March 31; and the 500th anniversary of Christianity in the Philippines on April 14.
In 2018, President Rodrigo Duterte signed the Republic Act 11040, which declares April 27 as a special working holiday throughout the country and a special non-working holiday in Cebu to celebrate Lapulapu Day. /PR