On June 12, 2024, the Municipality of Camiling, Tarlac, held a significant celebration commemorating the 126^th Philippine Independence Day. The program, which commenced precisely at 7 AM, took place at the Veteran’s Park in the Camiling Town Plaza. The event was graced by the presence of various municipal officials, national representatives, and community members, all gathered to honor the nation’s history and freedom.

The celebration was spearheaded by Municipal Mayor Erlon C. Agustin, who was accompanied by Municipal Vice-Mayor Noel B. Dela Cruz and the members of the Sangguniang Bayan. The event also saw the attendance of key representatives from various national offices, adding to the ceremony’s prestige and importance. Among the notable guests were Mr. Mon Alvin Lagonilla, Local Government Operations Officer VI, Police Lt. Col. Sonny Bitaga of PNP-Camiling and his team, Fire Inspector Crisanto Olinda of BFP-Camiling, Jail Senior Inspector Jonathan Christopher Laguda of BJMP-Camiling, and attorneys Luke Cathay, Angeline Martinez, and MyriamArisseSagsago of the Public Attorney’s Office. Ms. Arlene Cabilino, Revenue Collection Officer in Camiling, was also present, along with the department heads and employees of the local government unit.

The program commenced with the entrance of colors, a solemn and dignified moment led by PNP-Camiling. This was followed by a stirring rendition of the Philippine National Anthem, performed by the Camiling Association of Municipal Employees (CAME) Choir. Their harmonious voices set a solemn yet celebratory tone for the proceedings, reminding everyone of the gravity and significance of the day’s celebration. The audience was then led in singing the “Bagong Pilipinas” hymn, immediately followed by the recitation of the “Bagong Pilipinas” pledge, infusing the ceremony with a sense of renewed national pride and commitment.

Following the anthem, Mayor Erlon C. Agustin delivered a heartfelt message, emphasizing the importance of remembering and honoring the sacrifices made by our ancestors to achieve the freedom we enjoy today. He evoked a sense of responsibility among the attendees, urging them to cherish and protect the liberty that has been hard-won through the years. His speech was a poignant reminder of the shared heritage and collective duty of every Filipino to uphold the values and freedoms that define the nation.

The program, marked by unity and patriotism, served as a fitting tribute to the country’s independence. It brought together various sectors of the community, fostering a sense of solidarity and shared purpose. The presence of officials from both local and national levels underscored the collaborative effort in commemorating this historic event.

As the ceremony concluded, attendees were left with a renewed sense of pride and commitment to their country. The celebration in Camiling not only honored the past but also looked forward to a future where the principles of freedom, justice, and unity continue to thrive.