KALIBO, Aklan – Kalibo Mayor William Lachica called on parents and teachers to educate children on the history of the Philippines as he led the province's commemoration of the 114th Independence Day at the Kalibo Pastrana Park here.

In his message, Lachica said the Filipinos owe their freedom to heroes during the Spanish period, World War II and the EDSA Revolution, and the present-day policemen and soldiers who continue to defend our freedom.

"Our history is also sometimes forgotten, especially the sacrifices of our heroes as we are busy with our jobs and personal activities", Lachica told the crowd composed of teachers, government employees and officers and men of the Philippine National Police, Bureau of Fire Protection, Philippine Army and Philippine Coast Guard.

He, however, expressed his appreciation of the government's efforts to give importance to the celebration this year through the participation of Teachers Arts Guild from the Kalibo Pilot Elementary School (KPES).

The KPES gave comprehensive performances through songs and dances on the country's history and how independence was obtained for us through the struggle of our forefathers, dubbed "Pagdumdum sa Historya it Kahilwayan it Pilipinas."

The evolution of the Philippine Flag was also narrated by the group during their performance.

In the same occasion, Lachica called on Filipinos to unite to be able to confront problems besetting the country.

"With the theme 'Kalayaan Pananagutan ng Bayan Para sa Tuwid na Daan', we believe it is also our responsibility to ensure clean governance, centered on sustained provision of good services to the people and to continue to tread on the straight path," Lachica emphasized.

Municipal officials, employees, and officials and teachers of the Department of Education attended the event.*PIA