ILOILO — Ilonggos must move beyond merely commemorating Independence Day and instead actively protect, strengthen, and translate the nation’s hard-won freedom into meaningful opportunities for future generations, Department of Tourism (DOT) Region 6 director Crisanta Marlene “Krisma” Rodriguez said during the 128th Philippine Independence Day celebration in Santa Barbara, Iloilo.
Addressing government officials, community leaders, and residents at the historic municipality where the revolutionary government of the Visayas was inaugurated over a century ago, Rodriguez stressed that freedom remains an ongoing responsibility that requires the participation of every Filipino in building a stronger, more inclusive nation.
“We are here to gather not merely to celebrate the historic event, but to reflect on the enduring values that define us as Filipinos. We remember the courage of our heroes and honor sacrifices of those who fought for our freedom and we affirm our commitment to building a stronger nation and generations,” Rodriguez stated.
Speaking under this year’s theme, “Kalayaan, Kasaysayan, Kinabukasan,” Rodriguez underscored that independence is more than a milestone in history.
“Noong June 12, 1898, buong tapang na ipinahayag ng ating mga ninuno ang kalayaan ng Pilipinas. Ang tagumpay na ito ay bunga ng kanilang sakripisyo, katatagan, at walang kapantay na pagmamahal sa bayan. (But) freedom is more than a historic declaration. Freedom means having the opportunity to shape our own destiny as a nation. It means, empowering every Filipino to dream, to participate, and contribute to nation building,” she emphasized.
Rodriguez said freedom carries responsibilities that go beyond individual rights and must be used to create a just, peaceful, and prosperous society.
“True freedom entails our ability to live with dignity, express our thoughts with accountability, and collaborate in the pursuit of the common good,” she articulated.
She also emphasized the importance of history in shaping national identity and guiding future generations.
“History serves as the foundation of our national identity. It reminds us of where we came from and guides us through to aspire and go. Ang ating kasaysayan ay puno ng mga kwento ng katapangan, pagkaka-isa, at pagmamahal sa bayan. Mula sa mga bayaning nag alay ng kanilang buhay, hanggang sa mga ordinaryong Pilipino na naglilingkod ng may dangal at sakripisyo, ipinakita nila na ang tunay na lakas ng bansa ay nagmumula sa mga mamamayang nagsakripisyo para sa kapakanan ng mga nakakarami,” she added.
Rodriguez highlighted Santa Barbara’s unique place in Philippine history.
“It is here where the revolutionary government of the Visayas was inaugurated, where the Philippine flag was first raised outside Luzon. This historic municipality stands as a living reminder that the story of Philippine Independence is also the story of courage and patriotism of the people of Panay and the Visayas. Ang mga kwento nitong kabayanihan ay kailangan manatiling buhay sa ating kamalayan upang mag silbing inspirasyon sa bawat Pilipino na patuloy na mahalin at pag lingkuran ang bayan,” she stressed.
Calling for greater national unity amid modern-day challenges, Rodriguez urged Filipinos to actively contribute to nation-building.
“Sa harap ng mga hamon ng makabagong panahon, kinakailangan ang pagkakaisa, malasakit, at aktibong pakikilahok ng bawat isa. Ang bawat Pilipino ay may mahalagang papel sa pag hubog ng bansang nais nating ipamana sa susunod na saning lahi. As we continue to build stronger and more inclusive, let us remember that freedom is not inherited automatically by every generation, it must be nurtured, protected and strengthen through our daily actions. As public servants, private citizens, educators, entrepreneurs, workers, and community leaders, we all share the responsibility of ensuring that the gains of our freedom are translated into meaningful opportunity for every Filipino,” she added.
The DOT regional director also highlighted tourism’s role in preserving national identity and cultural heritage.
“Tourism is not merely an economic driver; it has the potential to be a powerful platform for preserving our rich cultural heritage, strengthening our national identity, and empowering communities through sound governance,” she asserted.
“It is our responsibility to ensure that our cultural treasures, historical landmarks, and narratives are not only promoted but also safeguarded for the benefit of future generations,” she emphasized.
Rodriguez concluded by reminding Filipinos that the story of independence remains unfinished and that every generation must continue the work of safeguarding freedom and advancing national progress.
“The story of Philippine Independence is not only a story of the past, it is an on going journey, a journey that calls upon each generation to preserve freedom, uphold truth, and work together for national progress. Sa pagdiriwang ng 128th anniversary ng kalayaan at pakikiisa ng Pilipinas, naway mag liyab sa ating puso ang diwa ng pagmamahal sa bayan, at kakayahang mag lingkod sa kapakanan ng sambayanan,” Rodriguez concluded./PN
