GMA declares Sept. 15-21 ‘Punctuality, Civility Week’

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo has signed a proclamation declaring Sept. 15-21 the National Consciousness Week for Research for Time (Punctuality) and Respect for the Rights of Others (Civility). This was announced yesterday by the Organized Response for the Advancement of Society (ORAS), through Justice Emilio Gancayco, founder; Justice Narciso Nario, chairman; and Justice Rodolfo Palattao, president.

The proclamation reminds the citizenry that by making "Filipino Time Is On Time" and Magbigayan Tayo" daily living principles, the result will be a more progressive, orderly and united nation.

The celebration starts Sept. 15, 6 a.m. with a peace rally and walkathon in Quezon Memorial Circle. The peace bell will be rung six times representing ORAS’ six years of existence as a national movement. A Mass will be officiated afterwards for the participants.

On Monday, Sept. 16, Metro Manila mayors will lead flag-raising ceremonies as well as punctuality and civility programs in their respective cities. Similar activities will be undertaken in Davao, Bulacan, Nueva Ecija, and Quezon provinces, where governors have acceded to become ORAS chapter honorary chairmen.

On Sept. 21, 7 p.m. at the Heritage Hotel, ORAS will hold the National Maagap Awards; 14 outstanding Filipinos who have shown exemplary dedication to the ideals of punctuality and civility will be given honors. Speaker Jose de Venecia Jr. will be the guest of honor and speaker.

The Department of Education will also participate through activities in schools involving students, teachers and the community. Symposia, oratorical, essay and art contests on the subject matter of punctuality and civility have also been planned.