Marcos to Pinoys: Emulate Bonifacio

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos called on Filipinos yesterday to emulate the heroism of revolutionary leader Andres Bonifacio and to contribute to economic and social development.

In his message on the 160th anniversary of Bonifacio’s birth, Marcos said heroism would emerge if people fill their hearts with love, concern and understanding for their fellowmen and the nation.

Each Filipino has an important role to play in ensuring the country’s progress, he added.

“Everyone should join activities that will develop our culture, economy and society now that we are striving to achieve a new Philippines,” the President said in a speech delivered by Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin at the Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City.

“My beloved countrymen, now that we are commemorating the 160th anniversary of the birth of Gat Andres Bonifacio, let us fulfill this duty,” he added.

Marcos said Bonifacio’s heroism calls on Filipinos not only to offer their lives to the country but also to dedicate their skills, courage and time so that their efforts would bring hope and inspiration to their countrymen.

“I invite each one to emulate his (Bonifacio) heroism and love for the country and to display it in their everyday activities,” the President said.

Bonifacio’s image, he added, symbolized the courage of the Filipinos’ forebears who fought for the country’s freedom.

“Such a heroism can be seen in modern-day heroes – in the diligence and persistence of Filipino workers; in the unmatched skills of nurses and doctors; in the sincere dedication of teachers; in the heroism of police and soldiers; in the unquestionable sacrifice of OFWs (overseas Filipino workers) – all of them give life and meaning to the progress of our nation,” the Chief Executive said.

Bonifacio’s ideals live on after more than one and a half century and Filipinos should honor his contributions to the establishment of their identity, he added.

Marcos noted that Bonifacio, father of the Philippine Revolution, mirrored the modern-day ordinary Filipino – he stopped studying and had to work to support his siblings after his parents died, learned to stand by his principles and defend the Filipinos who