Ang Pahayagan

BALER, Aurora – The 703rd Infantry Brigade reaffirmed its commitment to peace, security, and development as it joined Aurora Province in celebrating its 47th Founding Anniversary and the 138th Birth Anniversary of Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon on February 19, 2026, at the Provincial Capitol Grounds in Baler.

Leading the Philippine Army delegation was Brigadier General Eugenio Julio C. Osias IV, Brigade Commander, accompanied by Lieutenant Colonel Aries A. Quinto, Commanding Officer of the 91st Infantry Battalion, along with other military personnel.

The twin celebration commemorated nearly five decades of Aurora’s growth and resilience while paying tribute to the humanitarian legacy of Doña Aurora, whose name the province proudly bears. Widely remembered for her compassion, patriotism, and dedication to public service, her life continues to inspire initiatives centered on unity, peace, and community welfare.

In his message, Brig. Gen. Osias emphasized that sustainable development flourishes only in an environment grounded in peace and security. He reiterated the Brigade’s full support for the provincial government’s programs and highlighted the importance of close collaboration among government agencies, security forces, and community stakeholders.

“The progress of Aurora is a shared accomplishment. Through unity, cooperation, and collective responsibility, we will continue to safeguard the peace and stability that enable our communities to thrive,” Osias said.

Governor Isidro P. Galban expressed gratitude to national and local officials, partner agencies, stakeholders, and residents who joined the celebration and continue to support the province’s development agenda.

Aurora Representative Rommel Rico T. Angara underscored the importance of sustaining Doña Aurora’s legacy through transformative initiatives, particularly in healthcare. He announced the establishment of a more advanced and modern hospital in Aurora aimed at significantly improving medical services for residents. Angara noted that just as Doña Aurora championed compassion and public welfare, the envisioned facility will symbolize inclusive progress and expanded access to quality healthcare for all Aurorans.

Gabriel Quezon Avaceña, a descendant of Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon, echoed this commitment to public health, recalling that his grandmother, affectionately known as “Nene,” consistently prioritized the well-being of Aurora’s residents even until her final days. He expressed hope that the spirit of compassion and service would continue to guide the people of Aurora.

House Speaker Faustino “Bojie” Dy III manifested his full support for the programs of Gov. Galban and Congressman Angara, particularly initiatives focused on healthcare and agriculture, pledging cooperation in Congress alongside fellow lawmakers.

Vice Governor Patrick Angara described the occasion as an honor to be part of the Pasidayaw Festival Anniversary Program, a highlight of the Aurora Day Celebration 2026. He acknowledged the presence of House Speaker Dy III and Chel Diokno as guests of honor and emphasized that the celebration reaffirmed unity while honoring Aurora’s rich history, vibrant culture, and continuing progress.

“Together with fellow public servants, various agencies, and our people, we demonstrated gratitude and pride in our heritage as we move toward a brighter future for Aurora,” the Vice Governor said, encouraging continued service with compassion and dedication.

For his part, Diokno extended greetings for Aurora Day and the Pasidayaw Festival, urging residents to embody the humility, service, and compassion exemplified by Doña Aurora. He highlighted the historical ties between the Diokno and Quezon-Avaceña families and praised the spirit of the Pasidayaw Festival—derived from “pasida,” meaning sharing of harvest, and “dayaw,” meaning celebration or pride. He described Aurora as a province that values culture, generosity, diligence, and pride, likening it to the dawn—symbolizing hope and light.

The participation of the 703rd Infantry Brigade and the 91st Infantry Battalion underscores the Philippine Army’s continuing commitment to strengthening civil-military relations, preserving security gains, and contributing to inclusive growth and long-term stability in Aurora. (Jason de Asis)

TOP 📸 : The 703rd Infantry Brigade joins Aurora Province in celebrating its 47th Founding Anniversary and honoring the 138th Birth Anniversary of Doña Aurora Aragon-Quezon, reaffirming unity, peace, and a shared commitment to inclusive development and improved healthcare for all Aurorans. (Jason de Asis)