President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday, National Heroes Day, urged Filipinos to “do more than remember” national heroes by carrying forward the nation they fought and sacrificed for.
“I am in solidarity with the enfire Filipino people in the commemoration of our National Heroes' Day,“ Marcos said in his message on August 31.
“Today, I call on every Filipino to do more than remember our brave national heroes. Let us also renew our solemn duty to carry forward the nation for which they fought and sacrificed,” he added.
The President said the country’s forebears won “freedom, defended the nation’s dignity, and laid the foundations of the Republic.“
“We honor them best by embodying their courage, keeping the flame of patriotism alive, and becoming the citizens our country needs,” he said.
Marcos said the spirit of heroism continues to live on in Filipinos who serve and contribute to the greater good.
“Their spirit endures in every Filipino who chooses to serve, care, and contribute to a cause greater than oneself,” he said.
He cited soldiers and first responders who risk their lives to protect the public, as well as teachers, health workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and overseas Filipinos who help sustain families and communities.
The President also recognized ordinary citizens who help their neighbors, protect vulnerable members of society, and work honestly for the common good.
“As we forge ahead, may we continually prove ourselves worthy of the liberty entrusted to us and build a country that generations yet to come will proudly inherit. Let the Bagong Pilipinas we are shaping continue to revere the heroes of the past, present, and future,” Marcos said.
"Mabuhay ang ating mga Bayani! Mabuhay ang dakilang lahi ng Pilipino!" he added.
The Philippines first celebrated National Heroes Day in 1931 following the enactment of Act No. 3827, which designated the last Sunday of August as a day to honor the country’s national heroes.
The observance was later moved to the last Monday of August under Republic Act No. 9492, which took effect in 2007.
Malacañang earlier declared Monday, August 31, as a regular holiday in observance of National Heroes Day.
Meanwhile, Marcos is also scheduled to lead the National Heroes Day commemoration at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig.
