President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. yesterday urged Filipinos to remember the nation’s heroes and embody their spirit in modern-day challenges, as the country marked National Heroes Day.
In a statement at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Mr. Marcos highlighted the contributions of key figures in Philippine history, praising their courage, noting that their sacrifices paved the way for the freedom Filipinos enjoy today.
“These gallant men and women remind us that our liberty was hard-won, those who lie here at the Libingan ng mga Bayani remind us [once again ] of the constant vigilance required [to preserve] it,” the President said.
He emphasized that heroism is not confined to history books but can be seen in the actions of modern-day Filipinos.
He highlighted the bravery of the nation’s military and healthcare workers, as well as the resilience of overseas Filipino workers, educators, journalists, and environmental advocates.
“We have seen how it resides in the heart of a modern-day Filipino, fearless amidst the continuing adversities and perils that the world [has unleashed] – geopolitical conflicts, diseases, and climate change,” the chief executive said.
The President also honored Filipino athletes, including Olympians and Paralympians, whose perseverance and dedication have brought pride to the nation.
“As we dedicate this day to honor our heroes of the past, let us not lose sight of what is asked of us here in the present,” he said, calling on Filipinos to uphold the principles of democracy, abide by the rule of law, and defend the country’s sovereignty.
He concluded his message by urging citizens to nurture the love of the country in younger generations, ensuring that the sacrifices of past heroes are never forgotten.
The president was joined by House Speaker Martin G. Romualdez who also cited ordinary Filipinos, among them teachers, fishermen, the Philippine Coast Guard, law enforcers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), champion gymnast Carlos Yulo, boxers Nesthy Alcayde Petecio and Aira Cordero Villegas, and members of the Philippine delegation to the 2024 Paris Olympics for their acts of heroism.
In a National Heroes Day message, Romualdez said as the nation honors the memory of the “brave men and women who laid the foundations of our nation’s freedom and sovereignty…let us also recognize the countless everyday heroes among us – ordinary Filipinos quietly making extraordinary contributions to our nation and the world.”
“These modern-day heroes contribute to the betterment of our nation in their own unique ways. They remind us that heroism is not limited to grand gestures or acts of bravery in the face of danger. It is found in the quiet yet powerful acts of service that uplift others and contribute to the greater good,” he said.
“Whether it’s the fishermen of Masinloc protecting our marine resources or the teachers in remote areas ensuring that no child is left behind, OFWs who represent the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifices for national development, and the men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard and other law enforcers who defend the country’s territorial integrity in the West Philippine Sea, these modern-day heroes exemplify the true essence of nation-building,” he said.
The leader of the 308-strong House of Representatives specifically cited the achievements of Yulo, who won two gold medals and Bronze medalists Petecio and his constituent Villegas, and all members of the Philippine delegation to the recent Olympics.
“Their victories on the global stage demonstrate how perseverance and dedication can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. They too are modern heroes, representing our nation with honor and inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams,” he said.
In a statement, Vice President Sara Duterte said that people can only truly follow the example set by the country’s heroes by being good citizens who uphold the principles that bind all Filipinos.
“This National Heroes Day, let’s remember our heroes who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of our country. I hope that as we look back on our history, we will learn lessons like determination, bravery, love for other people, and honest service to the nation.” she said.
Editor’s Note: This is an updated article. Originally posted with the headline “Marcos calls for reflection on Filipino heroism during National Heroes Day”
