House Speaker Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, guest of honor and speaker during the celebration of the 126th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence at the historic Barasoain  Church in Bulacan, with Governor Daniel R. Fernando, Vice Gov. Alexis C, Castro, Brig. Gen. Jose S. Hidalgo Jr, Region 3 police director; Msgr. Domingo Salonga, Bishop Dennis Villarojo, Malolos City Vice Mayor Miguel Alberto Tengco Bautista: National Historical Commission of the Philippines Gina Batuhan, and Malolos City Mayor Christian D. Natividad. (Freddie C. Velez) 

Bulacan Governor Daniel R. Fernando called for unity as the nation marked its 126th Independence Day on Wednesday, June 12.

With the Philippine flags proudly waving at the historic Barasoain Church, one of the important sites that played a significant role in the country's quest for freedom and independence, House Speaker and Leyte 1st District Representative Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez, the event's guest of honor and speaker, emphasized the need to protect and emulate the sacrifices of Filipino patriots and revolutionaries who shed their blood, sweat, and tears for the freedom that the Filipino nation achieved 126 years ago.  
Fernando urged the Bulakenyo youths to know the importance of June 12 because it is in Barasoain Church where the Philippine Independence became a reality and was recognized by the global community.

It was in Barasoain Church where the Malolos Congress took place and where the First Constitution and the inauguration of the First Republic were strengthened and ratified.

He said that the sacrifices of those who fought for the country's freedom and independence have brought about changes and progress, particularly in Bulacan, which is now enjoying growth and development in its 20 towns and four cities. 

“We should remain united and repay our forefathers by making our province and our country great,” Fernando said.
 

The Bulacan Governor also said that every time Filipinos see the Philippine flag waving proudly, they should feel proud because they come from a race that will not bow to oppressive rule. 

"Let us always remember the bravery of our Filipino heroes so that we can always be proud that we are a free race and an independent country," he added. 

Malolos City Mayor Christian D. Natividad said that Barasoian Church and the historic city of Malolos will always remind Filipinos that Philippine Independence and the seed of freedom “sprouted” in this place, watered and nurtured by the blood, sweat, and tears of the brave revolutionaries and patriots of that era. 

A flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying were held at the monument of Emilio Aguinaldo at the patio of Barasoain Church led by Speaker Romualdez.