BY MA. THERESA LADIAO
ILOILO City – In the days leading up to today, June 12, the Philippines’ Independence Day, the streets of Iloilo City come alive with vendors selling miniature flags.
These vendors, weaving through traffic and setting up in busy corners, remind everyone of the importance of this national holiday by offering motorists the chance to display their patriotism.
Jike Nava, a 50-year-old resident of Barangay San Juan, Molo district, has been selling flags for four years.
“Subong nga Independence Day, once a year ta malang ni nga ginahiwat, amo malang ni ang adlaw sang kalayaan ta sa Pilipinas, dapat lang nga kita nga mga Pilipino mag-ugyon subong. Dapat kada salakyan may ara sila sang mga flag para makita nga ga-ugyon man kita,” Nava shared.
He believes in the unity symbolized by these flags and encourages every vehicle to participate in the celebration.
Nava’s flag-selling business operates primarily on weekdays when traffic is heavier. His flags, priced between P35 to P100, offer an affordable way for people to show their patriotism. Throughout the year, Nava adapts to the changing seasons by selling beach toys or flowers during different occasions.
Similarly, Loredil Ariola, a 51-year-old from Barangay Calaparan Arevalo district, has been a part of this patriotic tradition for years.
“Independence Day is our freedom. It’s different to see vehicles adorned with flags, searching for everyone. It’s a sign that we are all at peace and in harmony,” Ariola said in Hiligaynon.
She roams Iloilo City daily, searching for customers and reminisces about times when the flags were more affordable, and sales were higher.
Ariola wishes that more vehicles would display flags.
“Tani magbakal sila, kay kun gusto nila mag-ayo, paayuon ko sila. Gusto ko tanan may ara. Nami gid ya nga siling ang Pilipinas, tanan naga-ugyon,” she said.
Jerry Potato, a 50-year-old from Barangay Punong, Lapuz district, echoes the sentiments of his fellow vendors. He highlights the importance of patriotism, recalling soldiers who felt a renewed sense of pride when purchasing flags for their vehicles.
“Tama gid ka importante ang pagbutang sang flag kay una ‘bes ang ginatawag bala naton nga ‘patriotism’, especially sang may mga time nga may soldado ako nga customer nga naghambal mabatyagan na ang pagka soldado ya kun may flag ang iya sini nga salakyan,” Potato shared.
Potato’s business is also seasonal, including selling balloons and toys during fiestas and festivals. Like Nava and Ariola, he faces the challenge of finding affordable flags to meet customer demand.
As the Independence Day celebrations wind down, these vendors will return to their usual occupations, yet they remain committed to preparing for next year.
They will continue sourcing affordable, high-quality flags and securing prime locations to attract buyers, ensuring that the spirit of patriotism continues to thrive.
In the bustling streets of Iloilo City, these miniature flags serve as potent symbols of unity and patriotism, reminding citizens of their hard-won freedom and the ongoing journey towards a brighter future./PN
