Quezon’s 147th birth anniversary marked

LUCENA CITY, Philippines — The provincial and local governments of Quezon as well as residents and state employees yesterday commemorated the 147th birth anniversary of former president Manuel L. Quezon.

The event was attended by members and representatives of government agencies, civic groups and non-government organizations as well as the police and military.

The celebration opened with a mass at the Quezon Convention Center, followed by a wreath-laying ceremony at the Quezon Monument in Perez Park.

The program featured a 21-gun salute rendered by soldiers of the Southern Luzon Command in tribute to the late president.

The ceremony was attended by Gov. Helen Tan and Department of the Interior and Local Government Secretary Jonvic Remulla, who in his speech noted Quezon’s legacy of leadership and nationalism.

Tan stressed the importance of Quezon’s values of service and patriotism. She urged residents to continue upholding Quezon’s vision of unity and progress for the nation.

Aug. 19 of every year or “Quezon Day” is a special non-working holiday in the provinces of Quezon and Aurora as well as in Quezon City.

The commemoration is pursuant to Republic Act 6741, enacted in 1989 to honor the birth anniversary of the former president, who is known as “Ama ng Wikang Pambansa” or Father of the National Language.