To start off the 17th Cityhood Charter Celebration of the City of San Fernando, the local government hosted the Teacher’s Heroism Day on Tuesday.
Organized by the City Tourism Office, the activity seeks to commemorate the heroism of Fernandino teachers during the 1980 elections and recognize the valuable contributions of the retired teachers in shaping the nation.
During the program, Mayor Edwin “EdSa” Santiago together with Vice Mayor Jimmy Lazatin, Kaganapan 2018 Chairperson Jun Pineda, City Schools Division Superintendent Dr. Imelda Macaspac, School Governance and Operation Division Chief Dr. Fernandina Otchengco and some of the surviving teachers from the 80’s era offered a wreath before the Teacher’s Hall Marker at the City Hall.
The marker was unveiled in 1984 in honor of the heroism of more than 500 public school teachers in the city who fought for the sanctity of ballots cast in the local elections held January 30, 1980.
Jose Castro, one of the surviving teachers, also shared their struggle to fight for truth and justice that later on resulted in the holding of special elections in the city on April 11, 1983 that highlighted the voting of the true and genuine choices of the people.
For his part, Mayor EdSa expressed his deepest gratitude to the teachers who played an integral part in the city’s political history thus paved the way for democracy.
“Ipinagmamalaki ko ang inyong kabayanihan hindi lamang dito sa syudad kundi sa buong mundo. Isa kayo sa mga maituturing na sense of pride ng ating syudad dahil sa katapatan at katapangan na inyong ipinakita,” he added.
Santiago also lauded the relentless efforts of the retirees for molding another generation of Fernandino citizens who are vital in the city’s growth and development.
Meanwhile, the teachers received certificates of recognition and tokens as part of the local government’s tribute program.