Erap scores GMA for moving celebration of historical events

MANILA, Philippines – Ousted President Joseph Estrada called yesterday on President Arroyo to preserve the exact date of historical events like the 110th Independence Day celebration today.

Speaking to The STAR during a break in his “Lakbay Pasasalamat” in Trece Martires City  in Cavite, Estrada said Mrs. Arroyo must learn to respect the sacrifices of Filipino heroes, who gambled their lives in defense of the nation’s freedom.

“It is not right to transfer the dates of the celebration of historical events like Independence Day because our heroes who gave their lives in defense of our freedom do not consider whether the day is sandwiched by weekends or not when they fought for our freedom,” he said.

“I think we are the only country that changes the commemoration of historical events. Can we change the date of Christmas, can we change the date of New Year’s Eve? I don’t think so. I think she (Mrs. Arroyo) has no sense of history. The people in other countries value their independence too much.”

Estrada said Filipino heroes did not care whether it was a holiday when they fought for freedom.

“That is why we must respect their role in our history by preserving the dates when they did their heroism,” he said.

“She has no sense of history, she does not care for our heroes.”

Estrada also visited the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite to honor the first president of the Philippines, who declared the country’s independence from Spain on June 12, 1898.

“The blood in my veins also belongs to the Caviteño because my grandfather was a Caviteño,” he said.

“The Ejercitos are from Imus, Cavite. We must always celebrate our Independence Day every June 12 of the year. It must not be changed. We have to preserve our history and inculcate it in the Filipino youth.”      – Jose Rodel Clapano