Naga City Civic Center Grounds
Taal Avenue, Barangay Balatas, Naga City
21 March 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III led the groundbreaking ceremony of the Jesse M. Robredo monument in honor of the late Mayor and DILG Secretary for his valuable contribution to the society. He was also briefed on the proposed Jesse M. Robredo museum that will be built inside the Naga City Civic Center Grounds.

The architectural design of the museum was derived from the simple characteristics and values that Sec. Jesse is remembered for: “MATINO, MAHUSAY, MAGALING.”  Inspired by his upright governance, the museum with a total area of 3,450 square meters will rise respecting the two things that occupies its present site: the trees and the community.

“Kung kapiling natin si Jesse ngayon ay baka nakayuko siya sa isang gilid at namumula sa hiya. Kilala niyo po siya, hindi siya ang tipong magbibitbit ng sariling bangko at wala rin sa kaniyang ugali ang pag-aangat ng sariling pangalan para maipagmalaki’t maipagkalat ang kaniyang mga nagawa. Minsan nga pong sinabi ni Jesse sa kanyang talumpati: ‘Later on in life, you will realize that it is neither your successes nor your conquests that will give you satisfaction. It is your contribution that really matters — paying back what you owe the community that nurtured you,’ kaya higit pa po sa pag-uukit ng pangalang Jesse Robredo sa ating kasaysayan, ginugunita po natin siya sa paraang ninanais niyang maalaala ng sambayanan: isang simple, matapat at masigasig na Pilipino — handang magsakripisyo para magbigay kalinga at iangat ang kaniyang kapwa, at maghatid ng makabuluhang pagbabago sa komunidad at sa bansa,” the President said.

Earlier, the President visited the tomb of the late Secretary together with Mrs. Leni Robredo and their daughter Jillian. He was also joined by DBM Sec. Butch Abad who acted as the pall bearer during the funeral of Sec. Robredo. They lighted candles and offered prayers for the former public servant.

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