Naga’s Plaza Rizal reopens

Mayor Nelson Legacion (2nd from left) together with CamSur 3rd District Rep. Gabriel Bordado, Jr. (left) and Vice Mayor Cecilia “Nene” de Asis (2nd from right) led the ribbon-cutting ceremony of the re-opening of Plaza Rizal, Naga City, June 18, 2020, in time with the celebration of the Naga City’s 72nd Charter Anniversary. (JRM-PIAV/Camarines Sur)

NAGA CITY --- A day before the commemoration of the birth anniversary of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, and in time for the 72nd Charter Anniversary of this city, the re-developed, re-greened and refreshed Plaza Rizal was formally opened to the public on Thursday, June 18.

Mayor Nelson Legacion, together with Camarines Sur 3rd district Rep. Gabriel Bordado, Jr., Vice Mayor Cecilia “Nene” de Asis, and members of the city council and other guests, led the ribbon-cutting ceremony and blessing of the new Plaza Rizal.

The simple program included short messages from the city officials and a video message from Vice President Leni Robredo.

In his message, Legacion stressed the importance of caring for the environment and giving the city its colors. “Ang konsepto niato digdi iyo na ipahiling na ang ‘Maogmang Lugar’ sarong malinig asin preskong komunidad kun sain produktibo asin marhay ang pagbuhay. Maririsa ini sa pagpahiwas niato nin mga espasyo para sa libangan kan publiko asin para sa mga pananom.” (Our concept here is to show that the ‘Maogmang Lugar’ is a clean and fresh community where living is good and productive. You can see this in the expanded space for public leisure and plants), Legacion said.

Legacion added that the redevelopment of Plaza Rizal is not yet complete. Included in the project is the installation of the Musical Water Fountain. The work was not started due to Covid-19, however, he gave an assurance that the project will push through at the right time.

During the occasion, commendations were awarded to individuals, organizations and agencies that assisted the Naga City Covid-19 Incident Management Team (IMT).

A song number from the 4K Barrel with their rendition of “Naga Na!” and “Proud Ako Naguneño” serenaded the audience. Local artists also performed after the program.

Vice Mayor De Asis said that though the program was simple, short, and sober in the light of the country’s fight against Covid-19, the celebration was nevertheless meaningful.

“This kind of war we are facing is different and unique by our experience, but because we are united, and because we all care, we will see this through and be able to get over the pandemic,” she said.

Inscribed in the Plaza Rizal marker is the explanation that the unveiling of the renovated Plaza Rizal is a symbol and testament to the city and the nation’s gratitude and admiration for the ultimate sacrifice of Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

This year’s Naga City 72nd Charter Anniversary had the theme: “Nakaandam sa Paghampang sa Mapang-agyat na Panahon. ” (JRM-PIAV/Camarines Sur)