Negros Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson marked the 128th Philippine Independence Day on Friday by calling on Negrenses to collectively work for freedom against poverty and social injustice.
Lacson, in his speech during rites held at the Provincial Capitol Park in Bacolod City, said the freedom won in 1898 will be incomplete without widespread economic dignity and institutional equity for the modern Filipino.
“Our independence is a constant reminder of our solemn duty to preserve our liberty, promote inclusive development, and work for the betterment of the lives of all Filipinos,” Lacson said.
“Freedom means more than political independence,” Lacson said. “It is the freedom to create opportunities for every Filipino to live not just with hope, but more importantly, to live with dignity. It means ensuring access to education, healthcare, livelihood, and justice,” he said.
It also means protecting the democratic institutions that safeguard our rights and freedoms, Lacson added.
He also stressed the need to remain “united as a people despite our differences in beliefs, backgrounds, and perspectives.”
“Our history reminds us of the sacrifices that secured our freedom. Our freedom challenges us to become worthy stewards of that gift. And the future calls us to build a nation that honors the struggles of the past while creating greater opportunities for the next Filipino generations yet to come,” he said.
In a time when division can easily overshadow dialogue and self-interest can overlook the common good, Lacson said, “let us remember that the strength of our nation has always rested on our ability to rise above our differences and work together for a shared purpose.”
“May we build a Philippines where no one is left behind, where every Filipino has the opportunity to realize his or her full potential, and where progress is shared by everyone,” he said.
Lacson also expressed his gratitude to uniformed personnel, healthcare workers, teachers, emergency responders, volunteers, public servants, and all those “who work tirelessly to keep our communities safe and strong.”*
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