DAVAO CITY–Davao City Mayor Sara Duterte-Carpio called on Dabawenyos to protect the gains of independence as the city marked the 120th Independence Day celebration on Tuesday.
Duterte-Carpio shared the sentiments of Maj. Gen. Noel Clement, commander of the Army’s 10th Infantry Division, who was guest of honor during the Independence Day rites at the Rizal Park, echoing the military officials’ call for the Filipino people to continue to fight for change.
Interviewed at the sidelines of the celebration, the mayor said a bright future for the country can be achieved by obeying laws, paying taxes, and taking care of the environment.
“These are the things that we can contribute so we can see the change in the society,” she told reporters.
Clement, in his speech, called on Filipinos to fight for change not only for the future but also for the present generation.
“Our people wanted no less, they wanted to change not only for the future generations but also to better our current circumstance,” Clement said.
Duterte-Carpio, Clement and Davao City chief of police Alexander Tagum led the flag-raising and wreath laying during the celebration that was attended by over 5,000 local and national government officials and employees, civil society groups, and representatives from non-government organizations and the private sector.
American-Filipino musician and Black Eyed Peas member Allan Pineda Lindo or Apl. De. Ap and Voice Philippines Season 1 winner Jessica Reynoso provided entertainment during the program.
The celebration was also attended by the members of the diplomatic community based in this city. (Lilian Mellejor/PNA)
