In Malolos, marker unveiled at PH Red Cross birthplace
CITY OF MALOLOS—A marker that commemorates the establishment of the Philippine National Red Cross 125 years ago in this city was unveiled at the provincial capitol here as the highlight of the celebration of the 446th founding anniversary of Bulacan province on Aug. 15.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines executive director Carminda Arevalo and House Deputy Speaker Camille Villar joined Gov. Daniel Fernando and Vice Gov. Alex Castro, other Bulacan provincial officials and mayors at the launching of the marker.
The Philippine National Red Cross was established on Feb. 17, 1899 in this city by its founding head, Hilaria del Rosario, wife of President Emilio Aguinaldo.
Arevalo said the marker is another testimony of the rich history, culture and heritage of Bulacan and its people.
The Philippine National Red Cross was created “to provide medical care for sick and wounded soldiers during the Philippine-American war with the help and support of the troops of the First Philippine Republic,” Arevalo said, reading the inscription on the marker.
“Their branches were expanded and spread out all over the country. This proves through this institution, that the First Republic knew and recognized the 1864 Geneva Convention which provides for the Red Cross to conduct medical works and services during war,” the inscription added.
In a video message played in a huge screen beside a stage in front of the provincial capitol, first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos greeted the nearly 200 Bulacan officials, descendants of World War II veterans, government employees, leaders of private sectors, other residents and the media at the unveiling of the marker.
“The province of Bulacan is so much more than a haven for arts and tourism, it has been a pillar of our nation’s historic democracy,” she said.
Logo
Fernando, who also led the officials in unveiling the logo the province will use for its 450th founding anniversary in 2028, said the Bulakenyo resiliency, unity and collective strength in times of disasters and calamities and the genuine services and love for the country of the leaders are what make Bulacan one of the most progressive provinces in the country today.
Bulacan’s logo for its 450th founding anniversary in 2028 bears the shape of the province’s map with Barasoain Church and its vast of green mountains on top.
Villar, the guest speaker at the event, assured Bulacan officials of their family’s support to the province as it continues to strive as one of the finest provinces in the country. INQ
