SANTIAGO, DOMINICAN REPUBLIC – The nation solemnly observed the 182nd anniversary of the pivotal Battle of March 30, a foundational event in its struggle for independence, through a series of official ceremonies in Santiago on Thursday.
President Luis Abinader, accompanied by Vice President Raquel Peña and First Lady Raquel Arbaje, presided over a traditional Te Deum mass at the historic Santiago Apóstol Cathedral. The religious service, a cornerstone of the commemorative events, featured a floral tribute honoring the fallen heroes of the 1844 battle that secured Dominican sovereignty.
In his homily, Archbishop Héctor Rafael Rodríguez delivered a poignant address that transcended historical remembrance, connecting the nation’s past struggles to contemporary global challenges. He called for profound societal reflection on the principles of freedom, solidarity, and collective responsibility. Urging citizens to embody compassion, moderation, and unwavering commitment to the common good, the Archbishop framed these virtues as essential continuations of the independence fighters’ legacy.
Earlier in the day, Vice President Peña spearheaded a separate civic-military ceremony at Parque Imbert. This event featured formal military protocols, including a flag-raising ceremony and the rendering of honors. Government officials and military leaders used the platform to emphasize the enduring relevance of unity, patriotism, and national pride. Speeches underscored that the values demonstrated during the historic battle—courage, sacrifice, and dedication to sovereignty—remain critical pillars for the nation’s ongoing stability and developmental progress in the modern era.