President’s National Heroes Day message urges ‘everyday heroics’

National Heroes Day
The Libingan ng mga Bayani (heroes’ cemetery) at Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City, and (inset) President Duterte.

National Heroes Day has been marked by President Duterte who urged Filipinos to become “everyday heroes” and help those in need.

The president today (Monday, August 26) said Filipinos should recognise the heroism of their forebears “not only by erecting statues in their honour, but by uplifting the welfare of the poor and marginalised — for it is through our small deeds that their spirit of valour can live on”.

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“Let us make our forebears proud of our triumphs as a people by being everyday heroes who will reach out to those who are in need especially to the ones who have been neglected by society,” he said.

The president also called on Filipinos to “embody solidarity and sustain our momentum towards positive change not only for ourselves but for the succeeding generations as well”.

He also urged Filipinos to reflect on their history and “honour the brave souls who courageously fought for our freedom and the democratic ideals upon which our nation was founded”.

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“Their collective sacrifice has made it possible for us to enjoy the blessings of liberty and to continue strengthening this great nation that they have left behind,” he said.

National Heroes Day
The president’s message to mark National Heroes Day today.

The president is absent from the National Heroes Day rites at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City this morning. He was said by aides to be “indisposed”.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) have called on Filipinos to remember the heroism of the country’s ancestors who risked their lives for freedom.

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“Today is the best time to remember the noble deeds of Filipino heroes who helped the Philippines achieve its identity. The PNP’s mission to serve and protect the whole nation offers a great opportunity for every hero to rise among all policemen in the service,” police chief, General Oscar Albayalde said today.

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