CEBU CITY — President Duterte skipped the national celebration of the 121st Independence Day in Lapu-Lapu City, on Mactan Island, Cebu on Wednesday. No explanation was given although officials announced on Tuesday that the President would not be able to make it to the rites at the Lapu-Lapu Shrine in Barangay Mactan. Mr. Duterte was represented by Education Secretary Leonor Briones who was joined by local officials from the Lapu-Lapu City government as well as local officials from the Philippine Air Force, Philippine National Police, Coast Guard and the Bureau of Fire Protection. In her speech, Briones honored the local heroes who fought the invaders. Let us not forget especially our Visayas heroes,” she said.

Source: Philippine Daily Inquirer June 12, 2019 08:26 UTC