President Rodrigo Duterte asked the Filipino people to emulate the heroism of Andres Bonifacio and contribute to nation building, particularly as the country faces many challenges.
“As we commemorate these events, I invite every Filipino to become a hero like Bonifacio by participating actively in our nation-building efforts, especially in those challenging times when we have to secure our nation’s health, safety, and wellness,” President Duterte said in his speech during the commemoration of 158th Birth Anniversary of Andres Bonifacio at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City.
“In this light, I call on our kababayans to emulate Gat Andres Bonifacio’s strong sense of civic duty, courage, and love of country in our daily lives, even in the simplest ways. May we be challenged to give our very best for the benefit of our people and nation.”
Bonifacio could provide a sense of hope, determination, and optimism for today’s generation of Filipinos, especially as the country surmounts difficult challenges, including the COVID-19 pandemic, he said.
The bravery and patriotism of Bonifacio and other Filipino heroes who fought the colonizers must serve as a guiding post in beating the odds that hinder the country’s progress as a people and as a nation, the President said.
This year’s celebration of Bonifacio Day saw the opening of the newly restored El Deposito Underground Reservoir, historically known as the site where the Philippine Revolution started in 1896 with the Battle of San Juan del Monte. A new diorama at the Museo ng Katipunan showcases the historic battle.
Duterte congratulated the San Juan City government for successfully hosting this year’s celebration in the Pinaglabanan Shrine, which played an important role in the Katipunan’s quest for Philippine independence.
Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domago also paid tribute to Bonifacio, saying he should serve as an inspiration, especially for the youth.
Domagoso, the Aksyon Demokratiko standard bearer in the upcoming elections was joined by Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna and Rep. Yul Servo in the celebration held at Liwasang Bonifacio.
Domagoso called on the youth to help shape a better country by choosing the right leaders.
Recognizing that they have the power to change the prevailing cycle of politics in the country, Domagoso warned the youth against believing what is being fed to them.
He said they should do a thorough research, saying they comprise a bulk of the electorate.
Domagoso also paid tribute to medical workers on the frontlines of the pandemic response and hailed them as modern-day heroes.
In the Senate, Senator Francis Pangilinan said Bonifacio was the real hope for the country’s freedom from the Spaniards.
Angeles City marked the anniversary by putting up Philippine flags in city hall offices. With Butch Gunio
