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  The Historical Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan served as a venue for another milestone in the life of Bulacaños as it once again hosted the 115th Independence Day Celebration with a theme “Ambagan Tungo sa Malawakang Kaunlaran” on June12, 2013.

   The celebration started with a holy mass officiated by Bulacan Bishop Jose Oliveros.  

   Local officials led by Governor Wilhelmino Sy- Alvarado, Vice Governor Daniel M. Fernando, Malolos City Mayor Christian Natividad, City Vice Mayor Gilbert Gatchalian, Board Member Ramon Posadas, PNP Region III Director General Edgardo T. Ladao, Engr. Candido Castro from the National Historical Institute and Executive Secretary and Guest Speaker Paquito “Jojo” Ochoa steered the ceremonial offering of flowers to the monument of Philippines’ First President and General Emilio Aguinaldo.
    
   Bishop Oliveros led the opening prayer for the state program.  He also asked for blessings and peace which was upheld by the attendees.  Malolos City Mayor Atty. Christian  Natividad gave the welcome remarks.  He stressed out that in order to feel the real freedom, one must do what is right and be guided by the truth.  He also inspired everyone to give honor in everything that they are doing.

    Bulacan Governor Wilhelmino Sy-Alvarado continued  to  enrich the  mind of Bulacaños   with  his trade mark historical speech.  He reiterated that Filiponos should serve the country with honesty and without reservation.  Gov. Willy also acknowledged that there are a lot of challenges in keeping our freedom, but with our collective effort and united actions, we will overcome any challenges.
Guest of honor and speaker Executive Secretary Paquito “Jojo” Ochoa who is a proud native of Bulacan during his speech challenged the attendees to give honor, dignity, value and importance to the independence that we have now since many of our forefathers sacrificed their lives in fighting against the colonizers.  He reminded the Bulacaños that freedom comes with a big responsibility.  He added that our desire for a better Philippines should start from oneself by loving our country, our countrymen and our Lord God. Lastly, Hon. Ochoa restated that it doesn't take a revolution to have heroes and heroines.  We only need to be honest in everything that we are doing.

   The celebration lasted for an hour only but it was a significant day which was attended by the different sectors of the province, Local Officials, employees and officers, PNP, BFP, Muslim Community, World War Veterans, DILG Bulacan Personnel and Executive Secretary Paquito “Jojo” Ochoa.