In celebrating his father’s 106th birth anniversary, President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. vowed to honor his father’s memory through public service.
In a brief speech after a mass celebrating his late father’s birth anniversary, President Marcos said that his father served as his mentor and gave him guidance whenever things got tough.
“I think the best way to honor his memory will be [to] stay true to the passion. There is still much to do. What’s important is making life better for the Filipinos,” the President said in a mix of English and Filipino on Monday during the Marcos Day celebration in Batac City, Ilocos Norte.
The Chief Executive also urged young leaders and government officials to emulate the values, ideals, and vision of his father for the country.
“So as we remember and pay tribute to his memory, let this gathering serve as a testament to the unwavering pursuit of unity that he so passionately espoused for our people. In his memory, may our actions from this point on be directed by the desire to preserve and share the rich heritage of our province, of our nation,” he added.
He also thanked all those who joined the Marcos family and the Ilocanos in celebrating Marcos Day, which has been celebrated for many years.
President Marcos Sr. was born on Sept. 11, 1917, in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte. He served as the country’s 10th president from 1965 to 1986.
Last month, the Palace issued Proclamation No. 327, or the declaration of Sept. 11 as a special non-working day in Ilocos Norte.
Senator Imee Marcos, meanwhile, cited the need for the courage and intelligence of her late father, amid the crisis caused by the skyrocketing price of rice.
“We need to unite for the coming days. We also need his understanding and forgiveness,” said the eldest daughter of the late President.
She also thanked the Marcos loyalists whom she said have been always there for her family over the decades.
The provincial government of Ilocos Norte also marked the occasion.
“Today, we look back upon his greatness, our memories of his accomplishments, and of course, we forge our path ahead to build the Ilocos Norte that we all see and dream of,” Ilocos Norte Gov. Matthew Marcos Manotoc remarked as he led the wreath-laying ceremonies marking the occasion.