The CDA Caraga Extension Office, headed by Regional Director Dr. Monatao Honeya R. Alawi, joined the City of Butuan in celebrating the 128th Independence Day Anniversary, a meaningful reminder that freedom is both a heritage and a continuing responsibility. The program opened with the Promenade of the Philippine National Flag led by the Fourth Degree Knights of Columbus District-18 Northeastern Mindanao together with the Butuan City Police Office, followed by the simultaneous ringing of sirens and the highlight of the morning, the Flag Raising Ceremony. A wreath-laying ceremony followed, honoring the sacrifices of those who fought for the nation’s independence and the generations who continue to protect its freedoms.

During the formal program, Hon. Reynante B. Desiata delivered the welcome message and reflected on the courage, sacrifice, and unwavering love of our heroes for the country. He emphasized that independence is not merely a remembrance of the past, but a call for unity in building stronger communities, where patriotism is shown through meaningful actions and service to others. This was followed by a narration on the significance of the Philippine flag by City Councilor Hon. Dendo G. Udarbe and a dance interpretation, Freedom Across Time, which brought the colors and history of the flag to life. Congressman-Lone District of Butuan City Hon. Jose S. Aquino II likewise stressed that freedom should be felt in everyday life through quality education, accessible healthcare, and opportunities that help build a free and progressive nation.

In his message, Butuan City Mayor Atty. Lawrence Lemuel H. Fortun used the image of a Balangai boat to describe the nation’s journey toward progress. He challenged the audience to reflect on whether Filipinos are truly free from poverty, fear of the future, corruption, misinformation, and the divisions that weaken society. Freedom, he said, is not only a right but also a responsibility that requires discipline, respect for the community, and active participation in nation-building. Just as a Balangai reaches its destination through the shared effort of everyone on board, the country can move toward peace and development only when citizens work together despite their differences. The celebration concluded with the recitation of the Pledge of Allegiance to the Philippine Flag, the waving of flaglets, and the community singing of Bayan Ko, followed by a photo opportunity that captured a shared commitment to unity, service, and love of country.