Vice President Sara Duterte called for greater government action to protect communities, support victims and rebuild areas affected by violence as the Philippines on Friday observed the International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism.
The observance coincides with Ninoy Aquino Day, a Philippine holiday commemorating former Sen. Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr., who was assassinated on Aug. 21, 1983, upon returning to the country from exile.
In a statement marking the international observance, Duterte said the Philippines knows the cost of terrorism through communities that have been affected by insurgencies and violent extremism.
She cited what she described as the impact of bombings, extortion and other violence on urban centers and rural communities in Mindanao.
“Hindi lamang pansamantalang pinsala ang dulot ng terorismo. Sinisira nito ang takbo ng buhay ng susunod na henerasyon,” Duterte said, meaning that terrorism does not cause only temporary damage but disrupts the lives of the next generation.
Duterte said the threat of violence remains a reality for many Filipino families and argued that remembering victims requires more than monuments and moments of silence.
“True remembrance demands concrete action,” she said, calling for justice, enforcement of government policies and comprehensive rehabilitation.
Duterte also said the state has a responsibility to secure its borders and rebuild communities affected by violence, particularly those whose residents have been displaced.
“We owe it to every displaced family and every disputed community,” she said.
She called for measures to protect communities and young people and provide adequate support for victims seeking to recover from violence.
The vice president did not directly connect her remarks on terrorism to Ninoy Aquino Day, which is observed separately to commemorate Aquino, a prominent opposition leader during the dictatorship of Ferdinand Marcos. Aquino’s assassination became a major turning point in the opposition movement that eventually helped bring about the end of Marcos’ rule in 1986.
The International Day of Remembrance and Tribute to the Victims of Terrorism is observed annually to honor victims and survivors of terrorism and highlight their rights and needs.
Duterte concluded her statement by urging Filipinos to “bring back courage and compassion,” saying the country’s efforts should be for God, the nation and every Filipino family.
