Officials and employees of the city of Manila were called upon by Mayor Honey Lacuna to put to heart and consider as a solemn vow the pledge that they make every week to serve their city, country and fellowmen with all honesty and dedication.
“During our regular flagraising, tayo ay nanunumpa sa ating watawat. Ang ating unang binibigkas, “ako ay Pilipino, buong katapatang nanunumpa sa watawat ng Pilipinas.” Sana po, hindi lang ito nangyayari tuwing araw ng Lunes…mas mahalaga na isabuhay natin ang panunumpang ginagawa natin sa ating bandila na simbolo ng ating bansa,” she said.
Lacuna also cited a line in the hymn of Manila that they, city officials and employes alike, sing every week, saying, “Maynila, Maynila, dalhin mo ang bandila” and urged those present to let the said line serve as their guide in their everyday work as public servants, saying Manila is looked up to which is why the saying ‘where Manila goes, the country goes,’ became a byword.
The lady mayor said that in offering public service on a day-to-day basis, they, who comprise the city government, must put their hearts and minds to performing their duties with their best efforts, for the betterment not only of the city but of the country in general.
Being part of government, she said, is the highest form of public service, as it gives them a chance to create changes in the lives of those they are able to help and serve, thus creating a better world.
“Kaya lagi po nating pahalagahan ang pagkakataong ito na maging isang mabuting lingkod-bayan,” the lady mayor said.
Lacuna also stressed that not everyone is given the same kind of opportunity of being of service to their city, country and those who are in need.
The position one holds, she said, does not matter for as long as one is able to perform his duties well and conscientiously. (Baby Cuevas)
