The City Government of Zamboanga reaffirms integrity, patriotism, and love of country as it joins the nationwide observance of the 128th National Flag Day during ceremonies, held at the City Hall grounds early Thursday morning, May 28.
Representing Mayor Khymer Olaso, Vice Mayor Beng Climaco led city officials, employees, and other stakeholders in the flag-raising rites, singing of the national anthem “Lupang Hinirang,” and the pledge of allegiance to the Philippine flag through the “Panunumpa sa Watawat ng Pilipinas.”
In her message, Vice Mayor Climaco underscored the importance of upholding integrity, unity, and patriotism, saying the Philippine flag serves as a lasting symbol of the sacrifices and courage of Filipinos in the fight for freedom. The ceremony also highlighted the meaning of the flag’s colors as representations of valor, peace, justice and national solidarity.
The Philippine flag will remain displayed at the Plaza Rizal until June 12 as part of the country’s 15-day observance leading to Independence Day.
National Flag Day commemorates the first unfurling of the Philippine flag on May 28, 1898 by General Emilio Aguinaldo following the victory of Filipino forces against Spanish troops during the Battle of Alapan in Imus, Cavite. Philippine Independence was later proclaimed on June 12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite, where the flag was formally raised during the historic declaration.
The annual observance is pursuant to Proclamation No. 374 signed in 1965 by former President Diosdado Macapagal declaring May 28 as National Flag Day, and Executive Order No. 179 issued in 1994 by former President Fidel Ramos extending the celebration until Independence Day.
Also present during the ceremony were Councilors Atty. Gian Enriquez and Rey Bayoging, City Department heads, key representatives from the Zamboanga City Police Office, Western Mindanao Command, Task Force Zamboanga, Bureau of Fire Protection, Knights of Columbus, and members of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines and Girl Scouts of the Philippines. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)
Source: City Government of Zamboanga