Republic of the Philippines

House of Representatives

OFFICE OF HON. JOSEPH VICTOR G. EJERCITO

Representative, Lone District – San Juan City

PRESS RELEASE                                                             Ref: Ria Manuel

29 November 2011                                                            +639175942755/217-7047

JV CALLS FOR GRAND 150^TH COMMEMORATION OF BONIFACIO DAY

With the 148^th celebration of Andres Bonifacio’s day approaching, San Juan City Representative JV Ejercito urged the government through a privilege speech, to organize a grand 150^th commemoration for the hero, in order to honor his great sacrifice and leadership on patriotism.

“As a lover of our rich heritage, it is unfortunate that our government gives minimum regard for our history. People can now only remember Bonifacio and the Katipuneros by reading history books and yearly tributes. But we are not careful to remember their worth despite the great sacrifice they have given for the freedom of our country,” Rep. Ejercito addressed his colleagues on Monday afternoon.

“In fact, it has now come to a point where we are already diminishing Bonifacio’s value, as evident in our currency. Before, we had Bonifacio placed solo on 2 and 5 peso coins. But now we have him compressed with Apolinario Mabini on the 10-peso coin,” he added.

Rep. Ejercito said with this level of disregard of historical facts and figures, it’s as if the Filipinos are slowly losing our souls and sense of origin.

With this, the lawmaker then urged the government to organize a grand Bonifacio Day celebration in 2013.

“A grand celebration would emphasize and remind our people of the great contribution Andres Bonifacio and the Katipuneros have sacrificed for the freedom of our country,” he said.

And while the national government can prepare for this, Rep. Ejercito is taking the initiative to memorialize the Katipuneros’ martyrdom at the Museo ng Katipunan and at Pinaglabanan Shrine which are already established in San Juan City.

“Since the Battle of San Juan del Monte took place in our city, we are willing to include Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Jacinto, and all other Katipuneros to be memorialized at the Pinaglabanan Shrine. The least our national government can help our LGU in this is to fund the additional expenses for the reconstruction and improvement of the museum and shrine.”

Rep. Ejercito finally quoted our national hero in pushing the Aquino administration to embark on the preservation and great commemoration of Philippine heroes, events and other figures.

"Just what Rizal said, “Ang hindi (marunong) lumingon sa pinanggalingan, di makararatíng sa paroroonan. While our country’s way of life progresses, we should not forget where and how we came here. We should preserve our history to remind us of our roots and our ancestors’ deeds,” he finally said.