BALABAGAN, Lanao del Sur — Balabagan Vice-Mayor Edna V. Ogka-Benito delivered a spirited message before her constituents on Thursday, June 12, 2025, in observance of the 127th Philippine Independence Day held at the municipal grounds.
Vice-Mayor Ogka-Benito emphasized not only the sacrifices of national heroes but also the unwavering resistance of Moro ancestors against foreign subjugation.
In her message, the lady Vice-Mayor celebrated the “birth of our motherland into the light of independence,” warmly acknowledging the “blood, sweat, and tears of heroes” who courageously secured the nation’s freedom.
Vice-Mayor Ogka Benito underscored the significant contributions of iconic figures like Gat Jose Rizal with his pen, Gat Andres Bonifacio with his bolo, and General Emilio Aguinaldo with the flag.
Furthermore, she particularly highlighted the “immeasurable struggle and bravery of Moro heroic ancestors,” reminding that “while Manila was invaded by foreign Spaniards, and Luzon and Visayas were subjected to the Spanish crown, the Sultanates of Maguindanao, Sulu, and Lanao did not surrender.”
Vice-Mayor Ogka-Benito also expressed concern about the nation’s readiness to face contemporary threats to sovereignty, especially concerning the West Philippine Sea. She challenged the notion that courage is merely defined by “sharp words,” instead advocating for a genuine readiness to defend the country “in mind, heart, and action.”
“True courage is not only measured by the loudness of a shout, but by the depth of understanding and the firmness of conviction,” she emphasized. (Analisa P. Española)
