The provincial government of Bulacan commemorated the 96th birth anniversary of Gat Blas F. Ople or Ka Blas, known as the “Father of Overseas Filipino Workers”, on Friday, Feb. 3.
Bulacan Gov. Daniel R. Fernando and Department of Migrant Workers (DMW) Secretary Maria Susana “Toots” Ople led the event themed “Gat. Blas F. Ople: Dakilang Bulakenyo, Bayani ng Manggagawang Pilipino” in front Ka Blas monument at Gat Blas F. Ople Sentro ng Kabataan, Sining at Kultura ng Bulacan building in the City of Malolos.
“Just like you Father, I will do my service with a sincere heart and I will also humble myself with a sincere heart because that is your teaching; do not love the position, but love the people and always love our country before yourself,” Ople said.
“The whole of me is because of you. You are me; although I will never be enough for what you have become. Father of Bulacan for a long time, and father of workers whether here or outside the country. If there is a lesson that fate and the Lord taught us both, it is to not be bored and that is also what I will remind our colleagues here today,” she added.
Meanwhile, Fernando said Bulakenyos are blessed with freedom and knowledge to put to good use and to contribute good changes to the country.
“On behalf of the people of Bulacan and the Provincial Government of Bulacan, we gladly commemorate the 96th anniversary of the birth of Gat Blas F. Ople. This day is special because a great Bulakenyo was born who is a champion in the hearts of the Filipino people. An exemplary public servant who has a love for our motherland and truly cares for the poor. It is our duty to finish any task and performance assigned to us properly and with full efficiency,” Fernando said.
Also present during the commemoration were Vice Gov. Alexis C. Castro, Board Members Allan Andan and Romina Fermin, former Board Member Felix Ople, department heads headed by Provincial Administrator Antonia Constantino and DOLE Bulacan provincial head May Lynn C. Gozun.