Mayor Zamora underscores role of city leaders at First Philippine Republic anniversary
By Hannah Nicol
San Juan City Mayor and League of Cities of the Philippines (LCP) national president Francisco Javier Zamora underscored the vital role of city leaders in upholding democratic ideals during the 127th anniversary of the First Philippine Republic at Barasoain Church on Friday, Jan. 23.
League of Cities of the Philippines National President and San Juan City Mayor Francis Zamora attends the 127th Anniversary of the Inauguration of the First Philippine Republic at the Barasoain Church in Malolos, Bulacan. Present as well were Governor Daniel Fernando of the Province of Bulacan, Mayor Christian Natividad of the City of Malolos and provincial and city officials.
Zamora said the principles established during the First Philippine Republic continue to serve as a guide for local governance, particularly in cities, where leadership grounded in integrity, compassion, and accountability remains essential in delivering effective public service and strengthening communities.
He also emphasized the continued relevance of the ideals forged during the First Philippine Republic in shaping present-day governance and public service.
“Sa huli, ang tunay na diwa ng Republika Filipina ay buhay na buhay kapag pinamumunuan natin ang ating mga lungsod at lalawigan nang may malasakit, katapatan, at mahusay na pamamahala (In the end, the true spirit of the Philippine Republic truly comes alive when we lead our cities and provinces with compassion, integrity, and good governance),” he said
“Sa ganitong paraan, tunay nating mapapalakas at mapapaganda ang ating bansa (In this way, we can genuinely strengthen and improve our nation),” The mayor added.
The commemoration began with a flag-raising ceremony, followed by a wreath-laying activity to honor Filipino patriots who played vital roles in the establishment of the First Philippine Republic in 1899.
This was followed by the program proper, which highlighted the enduring significance of sovereignty, constitutional governance, and national identity.
The event marked the inauguration of the First Philippine Republic on Jan. 23, 1899, following the promulgation of the Malolos Constitution.
It is widely recognized as the establishment of the first constitutional republic in Asia, Jan. 23 is officially declared as Araw ng Republikang Filipino, 1899 under Proclamation No. 533, Series of 2013.
The commemoration brought together local government officials and various stakeholders in a collective tribute to the country’s democratic roots at Barasoain Church, a site closely associated with the birth of the Philippine Republic.
The event served as a reminder that the principles forged in Malolos continue to guide the nation’s pursuit of good governance, unity, and national identity.