DUMAGUETE CITY, Negros Oriental, June 13 (PIA) -- Negros Oriental’s top chief executive has made a call to free the people of the province from political divisiveness which has hindered them from enjoying genuine freedom and independence and in achieving progress.

Newly-installed Gov. Manuel “Chaco” Sagarbarria underscored in his Independence Day Commemoration Speech that the country’s national and provincial heroes have fought for justice, equality, and freedom for their fellow countrymen regardless of their political, religious, social, and cultural affiliations or parties.

Sagarbarria added that the freedom currently enjoyed by everyone will be useless if there is still an atmosphere of fear, hatred, violence, and vengeance which is a result of political divisiveness.

He said he hopes to put an end to this negativity by upholding the principles of unity and healing as he begins his term as governor.

“I stand before you not as a representative of any political name but as an individual driven by the genuine desire to see our province thrive. It is my commitment to be a leader who works tirelessly to foster unity, peace, and progress in our beloved Negros Oriental,” he said.

“Let us work together to heal the wounds of division. Let us be united to change the face of Negros Oriental and tell the world that we too, have the freedom to move forward,” he added.

Sagarbarria emphasized that it is through collaboration, innovation, and inclusivity which could lead the province to its brighter future.

The local chief executive led the provincial government’s commemoration of the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence held June 12 at the Freedom Park, Dumaguete City.

The commemorative rites were marked by a flag-raising ceremony, firing of 21 gun-salute, wreath-laying, and flower offering to the bust statue of Dr. Jose Rizal, the country’s national hero, at the bottom of the flag pole.

Joining the celebration are the members of the Sangguniang Panglalawigan, department heads, and employees of the provincial government, and officials of line government agencies in the province.

Sagarbarria assured the public that he will do his best to serve as a “bridge to unify” all sectors in the province and eradicate political divisiveness completely.

“As we celebrate Independence Day let us remember that freedom is a continuous journey. It is a journey that requires us to stand united and to embrace diversity. Together, we have the power to redefine our province’s story and shape a legacy that future generations are proud to inherit,” Sagarbarria said. (RAL/PIA7 Negros Oriental)