Governor Daniel Fernando led on Wednesday the commemoration of the 123rd anniversary of the opening of Malolos Congress, expressing hope that the occasion would serve as an inspiration to Bulakenyos amid the battle against coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19).

Fernando cited the importance of the event that paved the way to the establishment of the First Philippine Republic, as he expressed optimism that by remembering it, Bulakenyos will see a ray of hope even while facing difficulties resulting from the health crisis.

“The memory of the Malolos Congress should serve as an inspiration to the province’s current battle for the return to normality amid the coronavirus pandemic,” he said in an interview.

Fernando, together with Vice Governor Wilhelmino M. Sy-Alvarado, National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) representative Candido Castro, City of Malolos Mayor Gilbert Gatchalian and Vice Mayor Noel Pineda, and Bulacan Police Provincial Office Provincial deputy provincial director Lt. Col. Allan Palomo, attended the commemoration rites held on the grounds of the historic Barasoain Church here.

Anchored on the theme “Kongreso ng Malolos: Gabay sa Pagsulong sa Hamon ng Kasalukuyang Panahon,” the celebration started with flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies on the monument of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.

The commemoration of the 123rd anniversary of Malolos Congress is the culminating activity of the weeklong celebration of Singkaban 2021 and is organized by the NHCP and the province through the Provincial History, Arts, Culture, and Tourism Office.

Also present in the event were Dr. Eliseo de la Cruz, head of the Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office, and some local government employees.

Sept. 15 was declared a special non-working holiday in Bulacan for the observance of the Malolos Congress anniversary. (PNA)