Cebu Capitol marks 128th Independence Day by honoring Datu Lapulapu
CEBU CITY, Philippines — The Cebu Provincial Government commemorated the 128th Philippine Independence Day on Friday, June 12, with a flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying rites honoring Datu Lapulapu at the Capitol grounds.
Governor Pamela Baricuatro led the ceremonies, which were attended by members of the Provincial Board, department heads, officials, members of the governor’s executive team, and Capitol employees.
After the flag-raising ceremony, provincial officials gathered for a wreath-laying activity at the statue of Datu Lapulapu located within the Capitol complex.
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Reflecting on Lapulapu, heroes’ sacrifices
During her speech, Baricuatro reflected on the sacrifices of Filipino heroes who fought for the country’s freedom and cited Datu Lapulapu as a symbol of courage and resilience for Cebuanos.
The governor said she often looks at the statue of the Mactan chieftain from the People’s Gallery outside her office, particularly during difficult moments in public service.
“There are days when the responsibilities of leadership feel especially heavy, and when the noise of politics threatens to drown out the work that truly matters,” Baricuatro said.
According to the governor, the image of Lapulapu serves as a reminder that courage means remaining steadfast despite challenges.
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Call for unity
Baricuatro also called for unity and urged leaders and citizens to prioritize common goals over political divisions.
“Leadership is not about creating divisions — it is about bringing people together for a common purpose,” she said.
She added that one way of honoring the country’s heroes is by moving beyond political conflicts that distract from development efforts.
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“Cebuanos deserve leadership that unites rather than separates, that listens rather than attacks, and that focuses on solutions rather than noise,” Baricuatro said.
The governor also pledged to continue working to ensure that the freedoms won by the country’s heroes translate into improved living conditions for Cebuano families.
She likewise encouraged residents to embody the values associated with Datu Lapu-Lapu, including courage, resilience, compassion, and commitment to the common good.
The Philippines marked its 128th Independence Day with ceremonies and activities held across the country in remembrance of the declaration of Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule on June 12, 1898.
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