The Dominican community commemorated the 157th anniversary of the restoration of the Dominican Republic. The foundation, Fundacion Dominicana Arubanse Juan Pablo Duarte together with the Dominican Consul and the Partido Revolucionario Dominicano came together at Plaza Juan Pable Duarte for the floral offer act.
Wilston Tavarez, president of the foundation, explained that on the 16th of August, the 159th anniversary of the restoration of the Dominican Republic is commemorated. They are happy and grateful for this day and the presence of the Foundation Dominicana Arubaanse Juan Pablo duarte, members of the community, consul members of the Dominican Republic and the San Nicolas fire department.
Pedro Ventura, consul of the Dominican Republic for Aruba, mentioned the progress made by the President of the Dominican Republic. In regards to Aruba, many achievements were made. Passports are now available in two weeks time, health insurance is provided, the ‘Junta Central’ was brought which recognized acts of birth, ID’s, and all other things necessary to receive a passport.
Many accomplishments have been made but there are many more to go. In the two years of Ventura’s presidency, Dominicans have become more at ease and understand that the work is being done. These developments reflect the positive relationship with the government. On different occasions meetings were organized with the Prime Minister, acting Governor, and director of the Coast Guard. There are continuous efforts to establish positive relations between the countries.
Edward McCollum, president of the Partido Revolucionario Dominicano explained that they placed a floral offering at the Plaza Juan Pablo Duarte. This was done in a commemorative context of the restoration of the Dominican Republic. He explained a little about the day, August 16, 1863 when a revolution was started to liberate the Dominican Republic from the Spanish annexation of the country led by General Pedro Santana who was a trinitarian together with Juan Pablo Duarte.
McCollum explained about the act of treachery, the war that started on a hill and which finished two years later in 1865. In this manner, two Republics were formed and all Arubans and Dominicans were asked to read the history of this liberation. The Dominican Republic is celebrating their 157th anniversary of independence from Spain and 159 years since its start.
