On Independence Day, Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo issued a strong warning to Filipinos against the 'enemies from within'—corruption, apathy, and abuse—stating that threats to the nation do not only come from foreign invaders.
In his message during the celebration of the 127th anniversary of Independence Day at the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite on Thursday, CJ Gesmundo reiterated that the change we seek cannot be achieved solely through the battlefield.
"Ang ating kalaban ay hindi lamang mga dayuhang nagnanais na sakupin tayo, ngunit ang katiwalian, walang pakialam, at pang-aabuso na nakikita natin sa sarili nating bakuran," said Gesmundo.
"Ngayon, hindi lamang sa larangan ng digmaan makakamit ang ninanais nating pagbabago. Ito’y nakakamit na rin sa mga hukuman, paaralan, at sa kung saan pa man kung talagang gugustuhin natin," he firmly added.
He emphasized that freedom is not a reward given after one’s struggles, but a continuing goal that must be upheld and strengthened every day.
Marking the celebration, he led the Philippine flag-raising ceremony as the guest of honor at the historic balcony of the Aguinaldo Shrine.
As part of the ceremony, he also led the wreath-laying ceremony at the tomb of former President Emilio Aguinaldo, with the floral offering sent by President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr.
