On June 12, we celebrated the country’s 125th Independence Day.
In the Summer Capital, a memorable program was held at the Baguio Convention and Cultural Center to commemorate the event.
While this near-sighted Ibaloy writer joined every Filipino in remembering and thanking our national heroes and other brave ancestors who made the ultimate sacrifice in securing our country’s “freedom”, I couldn’t help but ponder and even wonder if we are truly free as a people 125 years later.
Can we truly say that we are free if most of our elected leaders are members of political dynasties?
Can we truly say that we are free if many of our country’s provinces, cities, municipalities (and even barangays) have been under the control of the same families, since time immemorial?
Can we truly say we are free if most Pinoys still live in poverty and many would rather live abroad if given the choice and means to do so?
Can we truly say we are free if there is one kind of justice for the rich and powerful and another for the poor and powerless?
Again, it is right and proper that we celebrate our beloved country’s independence and honor our heroes who freed us from the shackles of Spain. At least in 2023, the Philippines is still generally free from external oppressors. I say generally because it seems that the Asian bully China is, for lack of a better word, bullying the Philippines and other countries. Let’s hope and pray that this bullying will not escalate into World War III. God help us.
Correct me if I’m wrong but sadly, our beloved Philippines is still not free from internal oppressors like poverty, injustice, political dynasties, and the like. What do you think?
Mayor Benjamin Magalong has signed several city council resolutions granting favorable review to four Sangguniang Kabataan budgets for fiscal year 2023. Resolution 203 grants favorable review to the SK barangay budget of Asin Road,Resolution 213 for the SK barangay budget of Aurora Hill Proper, and Resolution 214 for the SK budgets of Irisan and East Bayan Park barangays.
May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ continue to bless and keep us all safe.
