Malolos: The people of Bulacan should not be ashamed of being a Bulakenyo despite issues surrounding anomalies in the province’s flood control projects. This was the focus of the message of Sandiganbayan Associate Justice Maria Theresa Arcega, who led the 127th Anniversary of the Opening of the Malolos Congress Session at the historic Barasoain Church on Monday morning.
According to Philippines News Agency, Arcega emphasized the importance of upholding the spirit of the Malolos Congress to face current challenges. The Malolos Congress played a crucial role in establishing the three branches of government: the executive, the legislature, and the judiciary. It was by virtue of Presidential Decree 1486 in 1978 that the Sandiganbayan was established by then-President Ferdinand Edralin Marcos Sr. as a specific court to hear cases involving corruption. In this regard, Arcega assured a fair and speedy decision in the cases expected to be filed regarding the flood control projects.
Governor Daniel Fernando highlighted the enduring lessons of the Malolos Congress, stressing the responsibility of the current generation to eradicate corruption to pave the way for full development. Meanwhile, Malolos City Mayor Christian Natividad noted that genuine patriotism is demonstrated through action and adherence to the law. ‘From here in Malolos, the first democratic and constitutional country in Asia emerged. A historical legacy that we will continue to live in thought, word, and deed,’ Natividad added.
The commemoration was the culminating activity of the weeklong Singkaban Festival 2025 and was attended by Vice Governor Alex Castro, Vice Mayor Gilbert Gatchalian, and officials from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.