The descendant of the first governor of Bulacan believes that using the Filipino language in early childhood and elementary education builds a stronger foundation of knowledge among Filipino children, rather than forcing them to integrate English into their subjects, particularly science and mathematics.
“Kung magpapatuloy tayo sa ginagawa natin ngayon na agad-agad ay Ingles ang gamit lalo na sa agham at matematika, patuloy nating pagkakaitan ang malaking porsiyento ng ating mga bata ng matatag na pundasyon para sa kaalamang kailangan nila para sa isang masagana at makabuluhang buhay,” he said.
Del Pilar added that it also denies the country of responsible and intelligent citizens who can spark conversations in terms of accountability.
“Pinagkakaitan din natin ang lipunan ng mga responsable at matatalinong mamamayan na makauunawa at makakapagdiskurso tungkol sa pananagutan nating lahat sa kalikasan at ng pananagutan ng mga inihahalal natin sa pamahalaan. Kaisa po kami, mga kaanak ng bayaning inaala-ala natin, sa pagsulong ng katarungan sa lipunan na pinagbuwisan ng buhay ni Heneral Goyo,” he added.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Executive Director Carminda R. Arevalo also shared her insights on the young general’s heroic sacrifice, emphasizing the need for politicians to do the same through prioritizing the interest of the masses.
“Ang sakripisyo ni Goyo ay paala-ala na ang tunay na pag-ibig sa bayan ay may kaakibat na pagpapakasakit. Sa kasalukuyang panahon, hindi na natin kailangang magbuwis ng buhay sa digmaan, ngunit kailangan pa rin nating magsakripisyo—sa ating pagtatrabaho nang tapat, sa paglaban sa katiwalian, sa pagtulong sa kapuwa, at sa pag-una sa interes ng bayan bago sa pansariling kapakanan,” she said.
Likewise, Bulakan Mayor Vergel C. Meneses hoped the story of Goyo’s courage and bravery will inspire not only Bulakenyos but most Filipinos to follow the young hero’s selfless service to the people.
Meanwhile, Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office OIC Department Head May Arlene DG. Torres represented the Provincial Government of Bulacan (PGB) in the wreath-laying ceremony at the Bantayog ni Gregorio Del Pilar.
The event was organized by the NHCP in collaboration with the PGB, the Municipal Government of Bulakan, and the Armed Forces of the Philippines, while a separate commemoration was held at the general’s monument at the Philippine Military Academy in Fort Gregorio Del Pilar, Baguio City.
