“Ding Bayaning Talaturu,” a mural celebrating the heroism of teachers during the so-called “Rape of Democracy” in the then town of San Fernando in 1980 was unveiled Friday.
The mural depicted the ordeal of some 500 teachers in protecting the sanctity of the ballot on the night of Jan. 30, 1980 after they were herded to the town hall and intimidated – literally under the gun – to reverse the outcome of the local elections.
As fitting tribute to the heroic stand of the teachers, the then-sangguniang bayan of San Fernando declared Jan. 30, 1984 and every year thereafter as San Fernando Teachers Day.
“Ding Bayaning Talaturu” was created by Kapampangan artist Norman Phillip Tiotuico. It featured the San Fernando teacher-heroes; Kulitan, the Kapampangan system of writing; the city hall building, Heroes Hall building, and the Metropolitan Cathedral.
Presiding over the unveiling ceremonies were Vice Mayor Jimmy T. Lazatin, city schools division superintendent Dr. Imelda Macaspac, and city tourism officer Ching Pangilinan. With CSFP-CIO
