‘Have courage like Don Vicente’

CEBU, Philippines - Kirk Cuizon may have been born more than a century after Don Vicente Rama but the 16-year-old believes the prominent Cebuano politician’s legacy is still very much alive today.

Cuizon, a fourth-generation offspring of Don Vicente, is the son of couple Gerome and Consolacion “Chingbi” Poca. Her mother is one of the grandchildren of Don Vicente, who is considered the Father of Cebu City Charter.

“We all die but what remains at present is our legacy on what we stood and fought for,” Cuizon addressed a crowd of students in a memorial lecture at the University of Southern Philippines Foundation on Wednesday as part of the activities slated for the 80th Cebu City Charter Day anniversary.

Cuizon urged his fellow youth to – just like Don Vicente – speak out whenever they see something is wrong in their government or society.

“Fear did not stop Don Vicente Rama from doing what is right. Fear is not stopping me to make a speech. Fear should not also stop you from standing up for your values, your morals and ideals no matter what obstacles life throws at you,” he said.

Cuizon also called on youngsters to take a stand on issues confronting the country as they are, according to him, the most powerful agent of positive change.

“If there is something wrong, we should do something about it no matter what happens, no matter what obstacles,” he said.

Don Vicente, he added, should not just be remembered for his achievements but also for standing ground on his values, principles and morals when he was still alive.

In the same lecture, Cebu Archbishop José Palma acknowledged Don Vicente’s great contributions in paving the way for Cebu’s progress, particularly by authoring the measure that led to the city’s charter.

“Don Vicente Rama was a great man, who had been in public service for many years, a family man who served Cebu for many years, a prolific writer and publisher,” said Palma.

Palma told the crowd of the importance of valuing education and integrity in public service, which he said were both espoused by the Cebuano politician and journalist. (FREEMAN)