For the last time before he steps down from office, President Benigno Aquino III will lead the nation today in celebrating the 118th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.
Presidential Communication Secretary Herminio Coloma said that Aquino will lead the flag-raising and wreath-laying rites at the Rizal Monument in the Rizal Park, Manila at 8 a.m.
The traditional morning reception or Vin d’Honneur for the diplomatic corps in the presidential palace will follow.
“We enjoin our nation to participate in these commemorative activities and celebrate the freedom that our forefathers have fought hard for,” Coloma said.
Simultaneous commemorative rites will be held in different places and provinces nationwide including Kawit, Cavite; Malolos, Bulacan; Angeles, Pampanga; Davao City; Cebu City; and other parts of Metro Manila.
In a radio interview, Coloma also called on all Filipinos to “reflect on the freedom that our forefathers have fought for and we are currently enjoying.”
The Palace official also urged the Filipinos to be vigilant in protecting our freedom and democracy.
This year’s theme is “Kalayaan 2016: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan, Pagsulong.” Cultural performances will be held at the Paco Park and Rizal Park.
There will also be medical missions for the poor people, free transportation and ferry rides, simultaneous job fairs nationwide, trade fairs, and public exhibits.
Coloma said the Department of Labor and Employment will offer 15,000 foreign and 7,000 local job opportunities during the simultaneous job fair on Sunday.
Commuters will also get to experience free rides on the Metro Rail Transit (MRT) and Light Rail Transit (LRT) on June 12 from 7 a.m. to 9 a.m. and from 5 p.m. to 7 p.m., while the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority will offer free Pasig River ferry rides from 6 a.m. to 6 p.m. Sara Fabunan
Basic commodities and school supplies will be sold at discounted prices by the Department of Trade and Industry in its Diskwento Caravan.
The Department of Agriculture will hold an exhibit on aquaculture and food processing and distribute free agricultural information materials and vegetable seeds and seedlings.