Ilocos Norte joins nationwide Independence Day celebration

The Provincial Government of Ilocos Norte (PGIN) commemorated the nation's 126th Independence Day with a flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying at Provincial Capitol in Laoag City today.

Vice Governor Cecilia Araneta-Marcos led the celebration, joined by officials and employees of the provincial government, component local government units, national government agencies, non-governmental organizations, the Philippine National Police, the Bureau of Fire Protection, the Philippine Marine Corps, the Highway Patrol Group, the Philippine Coast Guard, and the Ilocos Norte Provincial Police Office, among others.

"It really is a day for celebration: the 126th Independence Day. That is truly a big thing to celebrate, so I guess we ought to give a hand to our forefathers who fought so hard to give us this independence. It really is a profound reminder as well of the resilience, courage, and steadfast spirit of the Filipino people,” expressed Vice Governor Araneta-Marcos.

She added, “As we reflect on the significance of this day, let us also reaffirm our commitment to safeguarding the freedom and liberties that define us as a nation.

As she concluded her speech, Vice Governor Araneta-Marcos shared that she was moved by the Bagong Pilipinas hymn, and she urged the Ilokanos, stating, “Panahon na ng pagbabago, panahon na para dumating ang mga pag-unlad dito sa ating probinsiya.”

On June 4, 2024, Memorandum Circular No. 52, signed by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, directed all national government agencies and instrumentalities, including government-owned or -controlled corporations and educational institutions, to incorporate the recital of the “Bagong Pilipinas” hymn during flag ceremonies.

Over the years, PGIN has been celebrating Independence Day with various activities such as job fairs, the distribution of agricultural inputs, and granting of livelihood assistance programs.