President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on the public on Monday, August 31, to actively embody the values of the nation’s historical figures rather than merely commemorating their sacrifices.
In his official message for National Heroes’ Day, Marcos emphasized that honoring past and present patriots requires continuous dedication to safeguarding the country’s freedom and steering its future.
“May we continually prove ourselves worthy of the liberty entrusted to us and build a country that generations yet to come will proudly inherit,” Marcos stated.
The Chief Executive urged citizens to actively participate in strengthening the republic that previous generations fought to establish.
“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 said.
He noted that the nation’s predecessors won independence, protected Filipino dignity, and established the foundation of the modern republic.
Marcos highlighted that true tribute comes from mirroring their bravery, maintaining civic devotion, and fulfilling the responsibilities of modern citizenship.
“Their spirit endures in every Filipino who chooses to serve, care, and contribute to a cause greater than oneself,” Marcos explained.
He pointed to everyday citizens who fulfill vital roles as modern representations of this enduring heroism.
“We see it in our soldiers and first responders who risk their lives to keep us safe. We recognize it in our teachers, health workers, farmers, fisherfolk, and overseas Filipinos who sustain our families and communities,” he added.
“We find it in every citizen who helps a neighbor, protects the vulnerable, and works honestly for the common good,” the President concluded.