PIA Press Release
Monday, January 16, 2012

113th anniversary of First Philippine Republic kicks off today

CITY OF MALOLOS, Bulacan, Jan 16 (PIA) –- The week-long celebration for the anniversary of the First Philippine Republic which was established here more than 100 years ago starts today with a potpourri of historical shows in line.

The commemoration of the 113th year of the revolutionary government aims to remember the “greatness” of Filipino forerunners who left an inheritance of democracy which we enjoy today, the City Information Office (CIO) said.

“Also to be shown in the one week of festivity are the culture, heritage, products, recipes, and valuable traits and talents of Maloleños. Moreover, the anniversary is a celebration of Bulakenyos of their excellence, bravery, and patriotism,” CIO said in Filipino.

Dubbed “Fiesta Republika,” the festivity will culminate on January 23 as the week flaunts a trade fair, painting exhibit of arts group Bahaghari, historical tour Lakbaykasaysayan, Handaang Malolenyo, Hari at Reyna ng Kundiman, street theater Dulansangan, and Bayani at Bituin ng Malolos which will recognize outstanding artists and personalities in the city.

Each day of the week will also feature programs on various sectors including environment, livelihood, health, agriculture, women, senior citizens, and youth.

CIO said Malolos City Mayor Christian Natividad gave importance to the celebration which paved the way for a merry and colorful festivity.

“The Natividad administration also believes that the Malolenyo youth will much understand where Malolos is headed to because of their grasp of history,” CIO added.

The Division on Tourism, Arts, Culture at Sports of the Office of the Mayor leads the organization of the celebration together with the aid of the Department of Education, City Environment and Resource Office, City Training, Education and Cooperative Office, City Agriculture Office, City Welfare and Development Office, City Interior and Local Government Office, City Resource and Environment Office, Samahan ng mga Kapitan (association of Barangay Captains), City Information Office, City Administrator’s Office and the City Mayor’s Office.

Also known as the Malolos Republic, the First Philippine Republic was a short-lived revolutionary government formally established with the proclamation of the Malolos Constitution on January 23, 1899 at the Barasoain Church. (WLB/JMG-PIA 3)