CEBU CITY – Bohol Gov. Aris Aumentado on Monday, Nov. 4, led the commemoration of the 128th birth anniversary of the late President Carlos P. Garcia.
BOHOL Gov. Aris Aumentado (ninth from left) is joined by government officials in the province during the commemoration of the 128th birth anniversary of President Carlos P. Garcia on Monday, Nov. 4, in Tagbilaran City. (Contributed photo)
“128 years ago, a Boholano was born on the northern shores of our island province. Shaped by our natural landscapes and honed by our shared history, he became a leader worthy of emulation - a Filipino who showed us that patriotism resides within all of us,” Aumentado said.
The governor described the former Boholano president, also known as CPG, as “Bohol’s Most Illustrious Son” and recognized as the “Father of the Filipino First Policy.”
“He exemplified what it means to be a Boholano: A fighter, an ambassador of change, and a peace-loving individual.
Throughout his time in public service, he valiantly fought for the betterment of his countrymen. In times of war and peace, he never wavered on his values, and until the very end, his love for the Philippines shone through, said Aumentado.
During the event at the Bohol Cultural Center in Tagbilaran City attended by various Bohol officials as well as CPG Excellence Awardees and CPG Scholars, Aumentado reminded Boholanos to never forget the legacy of Garcia.
“As we celebrate the 128th CPG Day across the province, let us once again remember the legacy he has left behind - a life that is worth telling to our children and grandchildren, a journey that took a Boholano into the hallowed walls of Malacañang,” the governor said.
Aumentado added that “the story of President Garcia is something that should always remain a part of our shared memory as one people.”
The governor added that Garcia’s words, poems, and actions should never be forgotten by his fellow Boholanos.
“Even in the face of globalization and technological advancements, the chronicles of those who have brought pride to our shores, just like him, should never fade from our collective consciousness,” Aumentado said.
Aumentado said Boholanos should ensure that Garcia’s legacy of service to the nation must live on “reflecting our gratitude for everything he has done for our province and our country.”
“As Boholanos, we should always highlight the accomplishments he has made during his years in government, from the moment he became a representative of the then Third District, to Governor, senator representing Bohol, Vice President, President, and finally, as a delegate of the 1971 Constitutional Convention, on which his fellow delegates had selected him as its first president,” Aumentado said.
Garcia’s life should serve as an example to all as he demonstrated that even if we have achieved greatness in life, one should stay grounded.
“President Carlos P. Garcia truly is Bohol’s favorite son - a figure that every Boholano can relate to, a Boholano who inspires us to aim higher in life,” the governor added.