PAGADIAN CITY, June 13 (PIA)-- The commemoration of the 121st Independence Day of our nation encourages all Filipinos to help achieve the change that we desire for.

Thus disclosed MGen. Roberto Ancan, commanding officer of the 1st Infantry (Tabak) Division, Philippine Army in his message delivered by Colonel Nollie Anquillano, Inspector General, during the commemorative ceremony held at Rizal Monument, City Hall Complex.

Ancan said no other people will help protect and preserve our national sovereignty except us - Filipinos.

He also lauded the courage and bravery of our forefathers that enabled us to gain our freedom and independence from the Spanish rule on June 12, 1898.

"Our soldiers today equal the courage and bravery and love of country of our forefathers who truly gave their lives for our independence," Ancan proudly said.

Meanwhile, Vice Mayor Ernesto Mondarte said that the Philippine Revolution of 1896 against Spain and our self-proclamation of independence has marked our strength and determination as a nation and as a race.

Taking from the lessons of our forefathers, Mondarte said the Pagadianon stood and still stands for the potential and power of change that lies within each of us and the strength of our unity to overcome challenges.

City Councilor Mendato Maracaban said that as a Filipino, and a member of the 12th City Council, he faithfully and conscientiously fulfills his duties and responsibilities as a legislator.

"I am very proud to inform my fellow Pagadianons that during my term as a member of the Sangguniang Panlungsod from 2016 to 2019, I have perfected my attendance in both regular and special sessions," Marcaban announced.

He encouraged the newly elected legislators to show their love of country by doing the same. (ALT/GCC/PIA-Zamboanga del Sur)