Balanga City celebrates 118th Independence Day

BALANGA CITY, Bataan – This only component city in Bataan belatedly celebrated this morning (Monday) the 118th Philippine Independence Day being observed yearly in the country every June 12.

This year’s celebration has the theme Ika-118 Pagdiriwang ng Pagpapahayag ng Kasarinlan ng Pilipinas: Pagkakaisa, Pag-aambagan, at Pagsulong.

The early morning program started with a parade participated by city officials, barangay captains, various sectors, religious groups, clubs, national agency employees, and city employees.

The highlights of the celebration were the wreath-laying to the monument of national hero Jose Rizal at Plaza Mayor de Balanga led by City Mayor Joet Garcia and Vice Mayor Noel Valdecanas, and the releasing of white balloons in the air.

In his message, the city mayor focused on the freedom being enjoyed by the Filipino people through the sacrifices of Filipino heroes and patriotic forefathers.

 The COB Saliw-Himig Choir, Balanga Utown Artists, and BNHS Dancers provided independence-themed numbers that made the celebration more felt and colorful.