ANTIQUE – Gov. Rhodora J. Cadiao’s speech during the 125th Philippine Independence Day celebration of the province grabbed the attention of the attendees.
“Today, mga kasimanwa ko, we celebrate independence; independence from ignorance, independence from poverty, independence from political harassment, and independence from political bullying,” Cadiao said at the EBJ Freedom Park in San Jose de Buenavista yesterday, June 12.
Wearing a red dress under her modern Filipiniana ensemble, she added: “Red signifies strength to fight, and red signifies victory.”
Cadiao did not mention the specifics or named names, but her speech garnered applause.
Last week, the Seventh Division of the Sandiganbayan issued an arrest warrant against Cadiao for alleged violation of Section 3(e) of Republic Act No. 30019, or the Anti-Graft and Corrupt Practices Act, on charges filed by General Service Officer Antonio Dela Vega.
Dela Vega’s complaint stemmed from his reassignment in 2016, when he was moved to their satellite office in Culasi town, some 100 kilometers away from the provincial capitol in the capital town of San Jose.
For the most part, Cadiao’s speech centered on the call for the current generation of Filipinos to continue the legacy fought for by the heroes of the past to secure Philippine independence.
“It is a moment to acknowledge the strides we have made as a nation in just 125 years since gaining independence. While we cannot ignore the scars left by over three centuries of foreign occupation, we have transformed ourselves into a nation that has achieved remarkable feats, forging our true, unique Filipino identity,” said Cadiao.
The governor also encouraged Antiqueños to seize this moment to contribute to the narratives of the nation’s progress.
“As we gather here in celebration of our independence, we should seize this moment to contribute to the narrative of our nation’s progress. By uniting our diverse talents and passions, we can build a future that not only respects our past but also fosters a sense of national pride, resilience and innovation,” she added.
The Independence Day celebration in Antique was attended by Vice Gov. Edgar Denosta, Antique Police Provincial Office director, Police Colonel Rogelio Abran Jr., Sangguniang Panlalawigan members, government employees, students, and other local officials./PN
