LAMITAN CITY, Basilan - - Lamitan City Mayor Roderick Furigay called on residents to honor the true meaning of freedom by committing themselves to service, unity and community development during the city's celebration of the 127th Philippine Independence Day on Thursday.
Speaking before local officials, government employees and residents, Furigay said Independence Day is not only about ceremonies and commemorative programs but also about remembering the sacrifices made by those who fought for the country's freedom.
“Freedom was not easy; it was fought for. It was sacrificed for. And because of that, we should never take it for granted,” the mayor said.
Furigay stressed that freedom extends beyond historical remembrance and should be reflected in the actions of citizens today.
“For me, freedom is not just about history; it is about what we do today. It is about how we help each other, how we serve our community, and how we move forward together,” he said.
The mayor encouraged residents to contribute to nation-building through simple but meaningful acts, including maintaining cleanliness, planting trees and helping one another.
“We do not need to do big things right away. Even small actions matter. These are simple things, but this is where real change begins,” he said.
Furigay also expressed pride in the unity being demonstrated by communities in Lamitan City and across Basilan, noting that residents continue to work together despite differences.
“Even though we are different, we choose to stand together. We choose peace. We choose progress. And that says a lot about who we are as a people,” he said.
As the nation commemorated Independence Day, the mayor urged the public to renew their commitment to improving their communities and building a better future for the next generation.
“Freedom is not only inherited; it is something we protect and grow every day,” Furigay said.
He concluded his message by citing a Yakan proverb, “Pasong pe bangsumo, labi pe bangsumude (more tomorrow, how much more the day after tomorrow),” which he translated as striving for greater achievements in the future.
“Kung nasaan tayo ngayon, kaya pa nating higitan, basta tuloy-tuloy. At sama-sama tayo,” Furigay said as he extended his Independence Day greetings to all residents and Filipinos.
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