As part of the commemoration of National Heroes Day, Mayor Khymer Olaso, along with key military officials and veterans groups paid tribute to Zamboangueño heroes who risked their lives for the peace and freedom of Zamboanga City during solemn ceremonies held at Plaza Rizal, early Monday, August 25.

Themed “Isang Diwa, Isang Lahi, Isang Bayanihan,” the commemorative program spearheaded by the city government, commenced at 7:30 a.m., with a flag-raising rite, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the foot of the Rizal Monument.

In his speech, Mayor Olaso emphasized the enduring courage, resilience and sacrifice of Filipino heroes, both national figures such as Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Apolinario Mabini and local icons like Gen. Vicente Alvarez who shaped the destiny of the nation. He also challenged Zamboangueños to live out the legacy of heroism in their own lives.

“Our national heroes are the embodiment of courage, resilience and sacrifice. They stood tall against oppression and worked tirelessly for the betterment of our society. Today, we honor not only the heroes of the past but also the heroes of the present such as teachers, healthcare workers and community leaders who continue to serve selflessly,” Olaso said.

For his part, Acting WestMinCom Chief BGen. Romulo Quemado II, PN (M), who keynoted the event, highlighted the contributions of Zamboangueño heroes including Gen. Vicente Alvarez, the late Mayor Cesar Climaco, Fr. Angel Martinez, Don Pablo Lorenzo and even ordinary residents of the city. He said their sacrifices left an indellible mark on history and continue to inspire present and future generations to protect and preserve the country’s freedom.

“If the heroes could speak us today, they will not ask for statues or speeches but for the courage to live as they did,” BGen Quemado said.

Also joining at the solemn event were Vice Mayor Beng Climaco, represented by Councilor Atty. Mel Sadain, along with some members of the City Council, Chief of Staff and Secretary to the Mayor Celso Lobregat, City Administrator Percival Ramos, Department of Interior and Local Government-IX City Director Ginagene Vaño Uy, city department heads, officers of the Zamboanga City Police Office, Joint Task Force Zamboanga, and various government, non-government agencies, and private institutions, as well as members of the military and security sector.

National Heroes Day is commemorated every last Monday of August through RA 9492, signed on July 24, 2007, by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo.

Historical records show that the date of observance in reference to the Cry of Pugad Lawin in 1896, which signaled the start of the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule. Led by Katipunan (KKK) under Andres Bonifacio, the event was marked by the tearing of cedulas (community tax certificates) as a symbol of rebellion against the Spanish regime. (Arvin Midel) (photo credits: Kathy Wee Sit)