Manila, June 14, 2024 — In a heartfelt ceremony marking the Philippines’ Independence Day, responders to the recent Kanlaon volcano eruption were celebrated as heroes. The event, held at the Malacañang Palace, highlighted the bravery and dedication of those who risked their lives to save others during the catastrophic event earlier this year.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. led the tributes, praising the responders for their “unwavering courage and selflessness.” He awarded medals and commendations to dozens of first responders, including firefighters, medical personnel, and volunteers who played critical roles in the evacuation and rescue efforts.
“Their heroism exemplifies the spirit of our nation. On this day of independence, we honor those who fought for our freedom in the past and those who continue to fight for our safety and well-being today,” President Marcos Jr. stated in his address.
Bacolod City, June 14, 2024 — In a parallel celebration, Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson led the 126th Independence Day ceremony at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon in Bacolod City on June 12. Lacson expressed profound gratitude to the men and women who served the country with dedication and selflessness, especially during the recent Kanlaon eruption.
“The unwavering dedication and sacrifices of troops, healthcare workers, emergency responders, volunteers, and public servants deserve our highest regard and admiration,” Lacson said in his address.
When Kanlaon volcano erupted on June 3, response teams swiftly mobilized to evacuate thousands of affected individuals in the province, particularly in La Castellana, La Carlota, and Bago. Lacson visited La Castellana over the weekend to oversee the distribution of relief assistance and assess the situation of evacuees.
On this historic day, Lacson emphasized the cost of cherished freedom, with many sacrifices made for the democracy enjoyed today. He highlighted that independence is more than a date on the calendar; it is a reminder of every Filipino’s duty to preserve liberty, promote inclusive development, and improve the lives of all Filipinos.
“More than just remembering, we must once again rededicate ourselves to protect, nurture, and ensure that our democracy will flourish,” Lacson added.
He urged unity as a nation, transcending self-interests, political differences, and regional, cultural, and social divisions. Lacson called for a commitment to honoring history, safeguarding democracy, equity, and human rights, and striving for greatness in education, science, technology, and the arts.
“Let us cultivate a culture of invention, creativity, and even entrepreneurship to drive our nation forward to a better future, as our portion to the independence handed down to us by our forefathers,” Lacson said. “Let us all work together to create a society in which no Filipino is left behind and where every individual has the freedom, through equal opportunities, to achieve personal advancement and contribute to nation-building.”
This year’s Independence Day celebration carried the theme “Kasaysayan, Kalayaan, Kinabukasan.”
Updates:
- Bacolod City, June 14, 2024, 14:00 GMT: Local communities affected by the Kanlaon eruption held their own ceremonies, expressing gratitude to the responders. Rehabilitation efforts continue, with many displaced families beginning to return to rebuilt homes.
- Manila, June 14, 2024, 15:00 GMT: The government announced additional funding for disaster preparedness and response, aiming to bolster the country’s capabilities in managing natural disasters.
- Cebu, June 14, 2024, 16:00 GMT: Universities and schools across the region have introduced special educational programs focused on disaster response training, inspired by the bravery of the Kanlaon responders.
- New York, June 14, 2024, 17:00 GMT: The United Nations recognized the efforts of the Kanlaon responders in a statement, highlighting the importance of global solidarity and support in the face of natural disasters.
As the Philippines celebrates its Independence Day, the nation also reflects on the resilience and unity displayed during the Kanlaon crisis, honoring those who stepped up in a time of need and setting a powerful example of heroism for future generations.
