The City Government of Isabela solemnly commemorated the 128th Philippine Independence Day through a simple yet meaningful flag-raising ceremony held at Plaza Rizal on June 12.
Organized by the City Human Resource Management Office under CHRMO Rosella Luna, the commemoration gathered local officials, national government agencies, uniformed personnel, civil society representatives, and city employees in honoring the nation’s hard-fought freedom and democratic ideals.
Vice Mayor Ar-Jhemar Ajibon delivered the welcome remarks, emphasizing the importance of unity, patriotism, and shared responsibility in nation-building.
On behalf of Mayor Sitti Djalia Turabin-Hataman, City Administrator Pedrito Eisma delivered the Mayor’s Independence Day message, reflecting on the continuing relevance of freedom in the modern era and underscoring the collective responsibility of citizens and leaders in safeguarding democracy, strengthening institutions, and advancing good governance.
The ceremony was highlighted by the stirring rendition of the Lupang Hinirang, performed by the Basilan National High School Chorale Ensemble under the guidance of Jonathan Gilbert Cruz, Chorale Ensemble Adviser. This was followed by the reciting of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Flag led by SAO IV Faye Barandino.
Among those present during the commemoration were Major Rene Ibao, Executive Officer of the 6th Special Forces “Lionheart” Battalion, representing LTCOL Geoffrey Fabros, Commanding Officer; PLTCOL Wilfredo Palamos Jr., Chief of Police of the PNP Isabela City Police Station; FSINSP Vincent Toribio, City Fire Marshall, and COL Remigio Delos Reyes (Ret), president of PVF-Basilan Veterans District.
They were joined by officers from PNP Special Action Force, Coast Guard Station-Isabela, BJMP Isabela City Jail, Isabela City Fire Station, PNP ICPS, and members of the Reserve Command and of PVF-Basilan Veterans District.
Also in attendance were Councilor Karel Annjaiza Sakkalahul, IPMR Panglima Jamalul Habibun, representatives from national line angecies, as well as department heads, LGU employees, and stakeholders from various sectors.
This year’s observance carried the theme, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan,” serving as a reminder of the sacrifices of Filipino heroes and the continuing duty of every citizen to uphold the values of freedom, unity, and national progress . (With Photos from M. Santos, CIO)
