LUCENA CITY, Quezon Province – The Provincial Government of Quezon, through its tourism, culture, and arts stakeholders, conducted the “Huling Parangal sa Watawat ng Pilipinas” (Final Tribute to the Philippine Flag) on Friday, June 5, 2026, at Perez Park in Lucena City, as part of the province’s observance of National Flag Days and the commemoration of the country’s rich history and patriotism.
The program gathered provincial officials, cultural advocates, educators, scouts, and community leaders in a ceremonial tribute honoring the Philippine flag as a symbol of freedom, unity, democracy, peace, equality, and national identity. The event highlighted the importance of preserving respect for the national flag and promoting awareness of its historical significance among younger generations.
The ceremony opened with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and the Hymn of Quezon Province, followed by an invocation led by John D. Valdeavilla, Vice Chairman of the External Quezon Province Heritage, History, Culture and Arts Council. Members of LIMUYAT (Limbagan ng mga Manunulat sa Unyon ng Yugmang Adhika at Tanghalan) rendered the patriotic song “Ako ay Pilipino,” emphasizing Filipino pride, patriotism, and nationhood.
A major highlight of the program was the presentation on the “Evolution of the Philippine Flag” delivered by Jorge Walter M. Ladera, Unit Head of the Culture and Arts Section of the Quezon Provincial Tourism Office. During his presentation, Ladera traced the historical development of Philippine flags from the early resistance movements during the Spanish colonial period to the revolutionary banners used by Filipino freedom fighters.
He explained that the present-day Philippine flag was sewn in Hong Kong by Marcela Agoncillo, assisted by her daughter Lorenza Agoncillo and Delfina Herbosa de Natividad, a niece of Dr. Jose Rizal, upon the request of General Emilio Aguinaldo, leader of the Revolutionary Government. Beyond representing the provinces that first rose against colonial rule, the flag embodies the aspirations, sacrifices, and enduring spirit of the Filipino people in their struggle for independence.
The historical presentation also underscored that the story of the Philippine flag is deeply intertwined with the nation’s fight for freedom. Participants were reminded that various revolutionary groups, including those associated with the Katipunan, carried their own banners as symbols of unity and resistance against foreign domination. These flags served as powerful reminders of the courage and determination of Filipino revolutionaries who fought and sacrificed their lives to secure the country’s sovereignty and protect the dignity of the Filipino nation.
Adding a cultural dimension to the program, Ginnuel Janzent G. Alcantara, Scout Leader of the Sariaya West District, recited the poem “Ang Aking Bandila,” highlighting themes of patriotism, sacrifice, national pride, and the enduring significance of the Philippine flag as a symbol of Filipino identity.
Vice Governor Anacleto Alcala III and Governor Dr. Helen Tan also addressed attendees, emphasizing the importance of instilling patriotism among the youth and preserving the province’s historical and cultural heritage. They called on Quezonians to continue honoring the sacrifices of the country’s heroes through responsible citizenship, respect for national symbols, and a deeper appreciation of the nation’s history.
The program culminated in the Final Tribute Ceremony to the Philippine Flag, participated in by representatives from the Southern Luzon Command, the Boy Scouts of the Philippines–Quezon Chapter, local government officials, and various civic organizations. The ceremony served as a solemn reminder of the enduring significance of the Philippine flag as a symbol of the Filipino people’s struggles, victories, aspirations, and unwavering commitment to freedom.
Hosted by Annadel O. Gob, the event formed part of Quezon Province’s continuing efforts to promote cultural awareness, historical preservation, and patriotism among its citizens while honoring the legacy of the Philippine flag and the heroes who fought under it.
