June 12 marks the 112th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence from Spanish colonial rule. Although a token sort of freedom, Filipinos were able to build slowly from the more than 300 years of Spanish rule, only fall into American colonialism, albeit only for a short time. The Japanese interlude marred the otherwise American benevolent colonialism. Stories of Japanese brutalities littered the pages of the history of the war era. Gingoog remembers this momentous event with a simple program in remembrance to the fallen heroes who unselfishly gave up their lives so we can have a peaceful country. The veterans and some of the survivors also attended the occasion. The opening prayer was led by Rev. Fr Joel Lusat, SSJV. An independence message of the mayor, who was not around, was read by the City Administrator, Tita G. Garrido. A presentation from the Gingoog City Comprehensive National High School and the talents from the City graced the occasion. Mr. Domingo V. Samson, ...