Mayor calls for vigilance to protect Negros from lawlessness

DUMAGUETE CITY – Mayor Felipe Antonio Remollo on Wednesday stressed the need for continued vigilance to protect the city and the whole province of Negros Oriental from lawless elements.

Remollo issued the call during the provincial capital’s 78th Liberation Day at the Quezon Park here as he led the city in honoring World War II and post-war veterans.

In his speech, he urged the present generation to fight with the same valor and courage displayed by war veterans while defending freedom and peace in the province.

“That’s why we should not rest, not be content with celebrations like this, because for as long as we are complacent and keep silent and not be vigilant about protecting our freedom, Negros Oriental or Dumaguete City will be in danger,” Remollo said as he pointed out the March 4 brutal death of Governor Roel Degamo and eight others.

The mayor also called for unity and to promote politics of professionalism as he noted that certain individuals are out to threaten the freedom that the veterans had fought for78 years ago.

Meanwhile, Assistant Secretary Restituto Aguilar, deputy administrator of the Philippine Veterans Affairs Office (PVAO), urged the public to inculcate in the minds of the young people of Dumaguete City the ideals that represent the war veterans – honor, courage, and patriotism.

Aguilar was the guest of honor and speaker during the Liberation Day anniversary celebration.

He also announced updates on efforts to increase the disability pay and other benefits for post-war veterans and their survivors.

These include the increase in the monthly pension of PHP3,000 and other pending bills that would hike the disability rating of those who have lost a limb, among others, he said. (PNA)