ALABEL, Sarangani -- Provincial Capitol employees on Monday (January 30) gathered in celebration of the National Bible Day pursuant to Republic Act 11163.

RA 11163 or the “National Bible Day Act,” declares the last Monday of January every year as a special working holiday in observance of the celebration.

RA 11163 underscored the “policy of the State that the government shall aid and encourage development of the moral character and spiritual foundation of the Filipino people.”

Former Senator Manny Pacquiao who authored and sponsored its Senate Bill No. 1270, encouraged Capitol employees and officials through a video message to “take time to meditate on God’s words day and night.”

At the Congress, then Sarangani Lone District Representative and now Governor Rogelio D. Pacquiao sponsored its House Bill No. 7544.

Governor Pacquiao said, the Philippines being the largest Christian nation in Asia Pacific and the fifth largest in the world prompted him and his brother to legislate the National Bible Day.

The governor also emphasized during the celebration the “importance of reading the Holy Bible every day” as he appealed to continue “pray for our beloved province for protection, tungod kay kabalo ta ang Pilipinas usa ka third world country and ang atong province one of the poorest in the country.”

“But” he said, “we continue to work, to strive para mai-angat ang matag pamilya sa kalisod.”

The celebration, held at the Capitol’s gymnasium, was attended by the provincial board members led by Vice Governor Elmer De Peralta who shared his personal testimony.

It was also graced by Haggai pastors and representatives from Gideons International, an association of Christian business and professional men dedicated to telling people about Jesus through associating together for service, sharing personal testimony, and providing Bibles and New Testaments.

Distribution of Bibles from Gideons also served as among the highlights of the celebration. (Beverly C. Paoyon/ SARANGANI PROVINCIAL INFORMATION OFFICE)