‘Be heroes in your own way, defend our sovereignty’
MANILA, Philippines — Athletes who competed in the Olympics, troops securing the maritime borders and workers got the spotlight during yesterday’s celebration of National Heroes Day, which also saw President Marcos highlighting the need to defend the country’s sovereignty and urging Filipinos to be heroes in their own way.
In a speech delivered at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, Marcos cited the importance of remembering the heroes who fought for the country’s independence and perpetuating their legacy of patriotism and nobility.
He said the heroes’ bravery and determination paved the way to freedom, but it came at a high cost – their peace, their rights and their lives.
The President noted that heroism “is not confined to history books.”
“Heroism also lies in him and her who are virtuous, in those who are compassionate, in those who are just. 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, climate change,” Marcos said.
He went on to enumerate the contributions of various sectors to Philippine society, including Navy and coast guard personnel who defend the country’s maritime borders, soldiers who protect citizens and health care workers who put their lives at stake for others.
“We also see it in the overseas Filipinos who leave the comfort of home to support their loved ones; in the ordinary workers who turn the gears of our economy and in the farmer and fisherfolk who increase our agricultural output to put food on every Filipino’s table,” the Chief Executive said.
“It is emulated by educators who lead our fight against illiteracy, journalists who promote truth and accountability, the environmental advocates who ensure that we and our children will have a safe place to call home,” he added.
Heroism, Marcos said, is also embodied by athletes “who stood before millions, bearing the name of the Philippines in the international arena.” He mentioned the country’s contingent to the recently concluded Paris Olympics, where the Philippines bagged two gold and two bronze medals, and athletes joining the Paralympics.
“All our Olympic
