ILOILO – The province’s float was declared the champion in the “historical float category” of the “Parada ng Kalayaan 2024” contest at the Quirino Grandstand in Rizal Park, Manila as part of June 12’s 126th Philippine Independence Day celebration.
“We are again proud Ilonggos, but most importantly proud to be Filipinos,” said Gov. Arthur Defensor Jr.
He formed a committee to plan, design, and execute the float. The members included architects Glene Rose Sesbreño and Ian Peter Lama, and Engineer Jeb A. Escarilla.
The float showcased the “Cry of Santa Barbara” – a pivotal moment in Philippine history. The Revolutionary Government of the Visayas was inaugurated on November 17, 1898, signifying the unity and determination of the Visayans in the struggle against Spanish colonial rule. This moment was also the first time that the Philippine flag was raised outside Luzon – at the Santa Barbara plaza.
The float featured the Santa Barbara Church and convent located at the town plaza, symbols of Iloilo’s rich historical and cultural heritage. It conveyed the message of unity, resilience, and the enduring spirit of freedom.
Governor Defensor said Iloilo’s participation in the Independence Day celebration was a show of support for President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr.’s administration.
With him at the parade were, among others, 20 Iloilo mayors, including Mayor Dennis Superficial of Santa Barbara.
Mayor Superficial expressed his delight at the Iloilo float’s victory, and also cited the performance of the Kahilwayan tribe from Santa Barbara which accompanied the float.
The float parade saw 10 local government units (LGUs) competing. Alongside Iloilo were floats with representations of the Cry of Candon (Ilocos Sur), Tres de Abril Revolt (Cebu), Battle of Alapan (Cavite), Establishment of the Negros Republic (Negros), First Flag Hoisting in Mindanao (Surigao del Norte), Siege of Fort Pilar (Zamboanga), Lowering of Spanish Flag in Jolo (Sulu), Siege of Baler (Aurora), and the Founding of the First Philippine Republic (Bulacan).
In addition to Iloilo’s float, the Department of Foreign Affairs’ float was recognized as the champion in the Original Agencies and Branches of the Philippine Government Category.
Both winning floats received a cash prize of P1 million each.
The highlight of the 126th Independence Day celebration at Rizal Park was the flag-raising ceremony attended by President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and his family, Cabinet secretaries, senators, congressmen, and other government officials./PN
