President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. has challenged Filipinos to uphold the enduring legacy of Lapulapu by upholding patriotism and rising against modern-day oppressors.
“The same is what the nation needs today. Despite being in a world incomparable to that of Lapulapu, we are called to rise against our modern-day oppressors – greed, selfishness, and divisiveness – and uphold the legacy of patriotism that has been passed onto us through the years,” Mr. Marcos said during the 503rd commemoration of the victory at Mactan Liberty Shrine.
The President joined the public in commemorating Lapulapu and his men at the Battle of Mactan.
“The image of Lapulapu as a living, breathing, and real figure who risked his life to keep his family, comrades, and community safe from hostile outsiders may seem strange to our modern responsibilities. Yet, he remains a symbol of the bravery and honor that each of us inherently possesses,” he said.
Marcos called on Filipinos, particularly younger generations, to embody the same virtues.
“The challenge now for all, especially the youth, is to continue embracing his [Lapulapu] ideals and the wealth of our heritage as we realize a ‘Bagong Pilipinas’ that is built on the foundations of the liberty and freedom that he and all our other heroes fought hard for,” he said.