BALER, Aurora — Rather than celebrating Independence Day with the usual fanfare, the 91st Infantry (Sinagtala) Battalion of the Philippine Army chose to mark the 127th Araw ng Kalayaan with a message that resonates deeply with the times: the fusion of national sovereignty and environmental responsibility.
In a bold and timely initiative, the battalion led a Joint Peace Rally and Coastal Clean-Up Drive in Baler, Aurora — a symbolic act that linked the defense of the country’s territorial integrity with the preservation of its natural resources. The event, conducted in coordination with the Philippine National Police (PNP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), and various People’s Organizations (POs), highlighted the emerging narrative that true patriotism includes protecting the environment.
The rally served not only as a statement of support for the Philippines’ claim over the West Philippine Sea but also as a reminder that ecological preservation is integral to national survival. As climate change, resource exploitation, and geopolitical tensions escalate, the call to safeguard both sovereignty and nature grows louder.
Lt. Col. Aries A. Quinto, commanding officer of the 91st IB, emphasized this dual duty during his address:
“True independence means standing firm for our nation’s rights not only on land but also at sea… We must defend these waters and protect our natural resources for generations to come.”
This year’s celebration moved beyond symbolic gestures and delivered actionable results, as participants collected coastal debris and engaged in discussions on sustainable practices. By intertwining environmental stewardship with patriotic duty, the 91st IB and its partners championed a broader and more dynamic vision of nationhood.
Representatives from various sectors — government, uniformed services, and grassroots communities — united in a show of solidarity. Their collective actions reinforced the message that freedom is not only inherited but continuously defended — not just against external threats, but also against environmental degradation.
The 91st Infantry Battalion concluded the event with a renewed commitment to uphold peace, protect Philippine sovereignty, and pursue sustainable development — underscoring that in today’s world, defending the nation also means defending its natural treasures.