MALOLOS CITY, Philippines – Former senator Ramon Magsaysay Jr., will represent President Aquino in the 114th anniversary of the 1st Philippine Republic at Barasoain Church here today.
The President could not attend the ceremony because he is leaving for the World Economic Forum in Davos, Switzerland.
Governors Wilhelmino Alvarado of Bulacan, Lilia Pineda of Pampanga, Aurelio Umali of Nueva Ecija, Victor Yap of Tarlac, Emilio Ramon Ejercito of Laguna, Juanito Victor of Cavite, Vima Santos-Recto of Batangas and Mayor Alfredo Lim of Manila will also attend the ceremony.
“It will be the first time that leaders of the eight provinces that broke from Spanish colonial rule will be present in marking the anniversary of the First Philippine Republic. Their presence will add more significance and boost unity among us in preserving one of the most important events in Philippine history,†Alvarado said.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines Executive Director Ludovico Badoy said that the program will start with a flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying at Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s monument.
“We want to uplift the awareness of our fellow Filipinos especially the young generation that this is a very significant part of the history. It is not only to promote Malolos, not only for Bulacan but for the entire country as well,†said Badoy.