BACOLOD City — Rising volleyball star Brianna Nikola Ang of Bacolod City has been selected as the guest speaker for the city’s commemoration of the 128th Philippine Independence Day today, June 12.
This year’s Araw ng Kalayaan celebration carries the theme, “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan,” underscoring the enduring significance of independence in shaping the nation’s future while honoring its past.
Mayor Greg Gasataya expressed his gratitude to Ang and the Bacolod Tay Tung High School community for allowing the young athlete to participate in the city’s Independence Day program.
According to Gasataya, the city invited Ang as part of the local government’s continuing efforts to promote sports tourism and inspire the youth through athletic excellence.
“We want to give our young people opportunities to share their message and inspire others,” the mayor said. “That is why we invited Ang to speak at this event.”
He added that Ang and her teammates have brought pride and honor to Bacolod City and have become an inspiration to aspiring athletes.
Gasataya also emphasized the role of sports in helping young people unlock opportunities and achieve their goals.
“Through sports, they will be able to accomplish many things,” he said.
The Independence Day celebration will be held at the grounds of the Bacolod City Government Center (BCGC), where a wreath-laying ceremony and commemorative program are scheduled.
The event will be followed by a civic-military parade from the BCGC to The Upper East Megaworld. Activities are set to begin at 7 a.m.
Ang rose to prominence as one of the standout players of the Bacolod Tay Tung High School Thunderbolts volleyball team before committing to play for the Ateneo Lady Eagles in the University Athletic Association of the Philippines (UAAP).
She also emerged as one of the most popular athletes during the 2025 Western Visayas Regional Athletic Association (WVRAA) Meet, earning widespread support from sports enthusiasts across the region.
Her selection as guest speaker underscores the city’s recognition of young athletes who excel in their respective fields while serving as role models for the next generation./PN
