ON INDEPENDENCE DAY Cebu leaders honor heroes’ legacy

A giant Philippine flag stretched across the grounds of the Cebu Provincial Capitol greeted government officials and employees as the province joined the nation in commemorating the 128th Independence Day on June 12.

- Jonnavie Villa and Kristin de Dios/MRM

The early morning observance transformed the Capitol grounds into a sea of red, white, blue, and yellow as provincial officials gathered to honor the country’s struggle for freedom and the sacrifices of Filipino heroes.

Leading the celebration was Governor Pamela Baricuatro, who used the occasion to reflect on the legacy of national heroes and the challenges of public service.

In her message, Baricuatro paid tribute to Datu Lapulapu, describing the Mactan chieftain as a continuing source of inspiration not only for Cebuanos but for Filipinos across generations.

The governor shared a personal reflection, saying she often looks at the statue of Datu Lapulapu from the People's Gallery outside her office, particularly during difficult moments in her work as governor.

"There are days when the responsibilities of leadership feel especially heavy, and when the noise of politics threatens to drown out our work that truly matters," Baricuatro said.

She said seeing the statue reminds her that courage is not the absence of difficulties, but the decision to remain steadfast despite challenges.

"Every time I see that statue standing tall, I am reminded that courage is choosing to stand firm despite them. It reminds me that if our heroes faced far greater challenges for the sake of our people, then surely, we can face our own with faith, determination, and love for Cebu," she said.

Baricuatro also used the occasion to call for unity, saying leadership should focus on bringing people together rather than creating divisions.

"Today, perhaps one of the greatest ways we can honor our heroes is setting aside politics that divides communities and distracts us from progress,” she said.

The governor added that Cebuanos deserve leadership that unites rather than separates, listens rather than attacks, and focuses on solutions instead of political noise.