By Raymart Escopel
ILOILO City – As part of the celebration of the National Disability Prevention and Rehabilitation (NDPR) Week, the Department of Tourism (DOT) Western Visayas highlighted the 150th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini.
On July 23, DOT-VI held a short program in honor of Apolinario Mabini, who is known as the “Sublime Paralytic,” at the SM City Iloilo Event Center.
The event was highlighted by performances from the Panayana Choral Group of West Visayas State University (WVSU), and Sta. Barbara Comprehensive National High School for the Arts. The two groups performed patriotic songs and theatrical dances showcasing the ideals and heroism of Apolinario Mabini.
“As the country celebrates the 150th Birth Anniversary of profound thinker and political philosopher, Apolinario Mabini, it surely inspires us that despite his physical condition, he made a big difference for the country as the brains behind the Philippine revolution,” said DOT-VI Regional Director Atty. Helen Catalbas.
She added that Mabini’s heroism should inspire Filipinos to face challenges with dignity and valor.
“We need each other’s support and commitment to be an instrument for the good of our country and people,” Catalbas noted.
More than its nationalistic significance, Catalbas also said that the celebration reminds Filipinos to give importance to the freedom they enjoy now.
“We need to keep, preserve and promote Philippine historical heritage for future generations to appreciate, and become modern-day heroes in their own simple ways,” she mentioned.
The celebration was in line with Administrative Order 33 dated October 18, 2012 and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to pay tribute to Apolinario Mabini in line with his 150th birth anniversary.
This year’s NDPR Week celebration carried the theme “Talino at Paninindigan ng Taong May Kapansanan, Pasaporte sa Kaunlaran.”/PN
