June 12, 2015 – The DILG Nueva Ecija Provincial Office, headed by Director Abraham A. Pascua, Ph.D., CESO III, joined the Provincial Government in the Celebration of the 117th Independence Day held in front of the Old Capitol, Cabanatuan City, Nueva Ecija.

This year's commemoration, with the theme: "Tagumpay sa Pagbabagong Nasimulan, Abot Kamay na ng Bayan" was attended by individuals from various Government Agencies, Local Chief Executives (LCEs) and media.

At exactly 8:00AM, the activity started through a Doxology performed by the Nueva Ecija University of Science and Technology (NEUST) Chorale.

It was immediately followed by the ceremonial raising of the Philippine Flag by Hon. Joseph R. Ortiz, Board Member, and Atty. Alejandro R. Abesamis, Provincial Administrator, while the Chorale led the crowd in the singing of the Lupang Hinirang.

Atty. Abesamis led the crowd in reciting the Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat and on behalf of the Honorable Governor Aurelio M. Umali, the Provincial Administrator delivered his message for the Novo Ecijanos.

Governor Umali acknowledged the struggles and sacrifices of our heroes to achieve independence. According to him, the Provincial Government continues its efforts towards attaining a peaceful and progressive Nueva Ecija for the Novo Ecijanos.

"Taglayin sa puso ang dakilang aral ng mga bayaning naghandog ng buhay", the lyrics of the Nueva Ecija March says, which was sung at the end of the commemoration. Indeed, the Novo Ecijanos owe this celebration of Indepedence Day to the heroes who bravely risked their lives for our freedom today.