BORONGAN CITY, June 12 (PIA) -- Borongan City through the City Tourism Office joined the nationwide celebration of the 121st Independence Day in simple ceremonies today, June 12, 2019.

Though the stage decor was minimalist, attendees especially the women were resplendent in their Filipiniana attire as they crowded the city plaza for the traditional flag-raising ceremony.

Mayor Maria Fe Abunda's message, which was read by her chief of staff Leonardo Ador, talked of the collective respect for the symbols of the flag.

"We are celebrating today the Philippine Independence, kalayaan -freedom, freedom from poverty, freedom of expression and freedom to choose who our leaders will be," she said.

As she was elected as the new representative to Congress, the lady mayor sought the blessings of her fellow Boronganon.

'Help me in my new journey so that I can still help not only Borongan, but the whole of Eastern Samar," said Abunda.

Meanwhile, Police Chief Oscar Albayalde also relayed his message to the public and the police, in a message read by P/Lt Ariel Baldoza.

heurged everyone to join hands in giving honor to the Filipinos who sacrificed their lives so that the next generation can enjoy freedom from the invaders.

"Patuloy nating isulong ang paglaban sa droga at pagbabago, huwag nating pahintulitang sirain ng mga tiwaling pulis ang ating organisasyon," part of the message read.

For his part, incoming Vice Mayor Emmanuel Tiusonco urged the public to always remember that "no matter who we are, we can contribute to the country."

"Ano man an ating katayuan sa buhay, kaya nating mag-ambag, gawin ang ating makakaya upang bigyan katarungan ang ginawa ng mga bayani para sa tinatamasa nating kalayaan," Tiusonco said. (NBQ/PIA 8-E. Samar)