Walkathon marks Tagum’s Araw ng Kagitingan celebration

Walkathon marks Tagum’s Araw ng Kagitingan celebration

TAGUM CITY, Davao del Norte, April 13, 2015—Thousands participated in an early morning walkathon commemorating the 78th Araw ng Kagitingan last April 9, 2015, which started from Rotary Park all the way to the New City Hall of Tagum in Barangay Apokon.

The simple ceremony, jointly organized by the City Sports Office and the City Information Office being the secretariat of the City Historical and Cultural Commission, was attended by government employees, men in uniform, barangay functionaries, force multipliers, teachers and people from other civic society organizations.

War veterans were also present during the celebration, who were given tribute for their bravery and heroism.

Retired Brigadier General Loreto Rirao, who is the current regional director of the Office of the Civil Defense, served as the guest speaker of the event where he stressed the importance of remembering the sacrifices of the people who had suffered during the second world war, most specifically those who endured or died in the Death March that happened 78 years ago.

Mayor Allan L. Rellon underscored the importance of paying tribute to those who have offered their lives in the pursuit of freedom. He added that the local government under his watch will take the lead in honoring the country’s heroes in special ceremonies such as this. (Louie Lapat/CIO Tagum)