The Municipality of Cateel commemorated the 127th Philippine Independence Day on Thursday June 12 with solemnity and pride through a Eucharistic Mass and Flag Raising Ceremony that brought together government employees, uniformed personnel, and educators.

The celebration began at 7:00 AM with a Eucharistic Mass held at St. James the Apostle Parish, where community members gathered to offer prayers for the nation and honor the sacrifices of those who fought for freedom.

At 8:00 AM, the flag-raising ceremony followed at the municipal grounds, symbolizing the country’s enduring sovereignty. The Philippine national anthem was solemnly sung as the flag was raised, joined by a crowd composed of representatives from the Local Government Unit (LGU), Philippine National Police (PNP), Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), Bureau of Fire Protection (BFP), Philippine Coast Guard (PCG), and the Department of Education (DepEd).

In her official Independence Day message, Mayor Emilou “Miloy” Nuñez, represented by Sangguniang Bayan Member Jefrey O. Lungay, emphasized the importance of remembering the nation’s history and the responsibility of every Filipino to uphold the values of freedom, democracy, and unity.

“The spirit of Independence Day lives on in every act of service, in every step toward progress, and in the unity of our people,” the message conveyed.

The local celebration in Cateel reflected the national theme for this year’s Independence Day: “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.”