Kanlaon Eruption Symbolizes Filipino Resilience — Lacson

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By Dolly Yasa

Negros Occidental Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the eruption of Mount Kanlaon last year “once again reminded us of the strength of our people.”

He delivered the message Thursday during the provincial government’s 127th Philippine Independence Day celebration at the Capitol building.

“These are our first responders, our healthcare workers, our volunteers, our public servants — ordinary citizens rising to extraordinary challenges,” Lacson said.

“You embody the same spirit that guided our heroes more than a century ago,” he added.

“Our heroes fought for a better tomorrow for us; it is now our turn to shape a future worthy of their sacrifice — through good governance, inclusive growth, responsible stewardship of our environment, and equal opportunities for every Filipino to thrive, contribute, and live with dignity,” he said.

Lacson emphasized that coming together under the national flag reminds Filipinos of the enduring ties of history, freedom, and future — “Kasaysayan, Kalayaan, Kinabukasan.”

He said Filipinos gather each year to honor the extraordinary sacrifices of those who came before — those who dreamed of a nation free from foreign rule and gave up comfort, safety, and even life for liberty.

“Of all the blessings we enjoy as a people, our independence remains the most costly and the most demanding — costly for those who offered their lives, and demanding for us who inherited the responsibility to protect and nurture the freedom they secured,” Lacson said.

He stressed that Filipino history is not a distant tale of nameless faces, but a living memory of ancestors’ courage, resilience, and determination.

“Their heroism challenges us to never forget that our independence was not simply handed down, but hard-earned through struggle and sacrifice,” he said.

He added that freedom is not just a date or a holiday, but “a daily duty to defend the principles of democracy, equity, and justice.”

“As we commemorate our 127th Independence Day, let us reaffirm our collective commitment: to honor our past with remembrance, to guard our freedom with vigilance, and to build a future of prosperity and peace for all Filipinos,” Lacson said.

In Bacolod City, Rep. and Mayor-elect Greg Gasataya, who led the city government’s celebration at the public plaza, called for unity and solidarity after the 2025 elections.

Gasataya also urged citizens to reflect on the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

“As we celebrate the 127th Independence Day, may we take time to cherish, reflect on, and deeply appreciate the sacrifices made by our leaders so that we can enjoy the freedom we now have,” he said.