Rota Catholic school commemorates 9/11

Students may not remember the events of Sept. 11, 2001, the tragedy that reverberated throughout American society, forever changing security, travel, and the national identity.

Known as Patriot Day, it is observed on Sept. 11 in memory of the more than 3,000 people who lost their lives in the 9/11 attacks on the United States.

Sixth-graders Raimundo Manglona and Jeremy John Atalig II show their 9/11 ribbon in remembrance of the victims. (Contributed Photo)

On the 13th anniversary of that day, Eskuelan San Francisco De Borja students talked and shared with their parents or relatives about their feelings for the event.

Do they understand the significance of the terrorist acts? Are we winning the war on terrorism? A collection of lessons, articles, and class discussions helped the students understand the events of Sept. 11, 2001.

“I am proud of the students for honoring those who serve and remember this day for those who gave the greatest service and greatest sacrifice to citizens of our country on the anniversary of the events of Sept. 11, 2001,” said administrator-principal Carmen H. Atalig.

“To commemorate the anniversary of 9/11, ESFDB students held moments of silence after their morning rosary and wore patriotic colors such as red, white, and blue,” said Social Studies teacher and board chair Edward Maratita Jr.

Sixth to eighth grade students pose in front of Sainan Ina after praying to her for peace. The students display the U.S. flag to represent freedom. (Contributed Photo)

“It was an important day in our history. One that could never be forgotten,” said eighth-grade student Tyra Reese Calvo.

Seventh-grade student Marjorie Banaag said, “Just by listening and learning about terrorism, it made me mad [while] at the same time happy. It made me mad because it created more airline restrictions but also, I was happy because it makes us safe when we travel.”

“We are honoring our administrator/principals’ son TJ H. Atalig, our teacher Mr. Ed [Maratita Jr.], and the sons and daughters of Rota who are serving in the armed forces,” said seventh-grader Angelo Lucero.

“We are remembering those that did the ultimate sacrifice for our freedom,” said another seventh-grader, Aneshia Reyes. “I am proud of my dad because he served in the military.”

“Also, we should not only focus on 9/11 but also on the freedom that our troops give us every day,” added fifth-grader Jeremy John Atalig. “I am proud of my uncle TJ [Atalig] and Mr. Ed for serving in the Army and protecting our freedom.”

In observance of 9/11, Eskuelan San Francisco de Borja students of teachers Mary Rose Lucero and Maratita joined in a moment of silence and prayer at the San Francisco de Borja Church. (ESFDB)