MANILA — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. urged the Filipino populace to draw inspiration from Andres Bonifacio’s unwavering heroism and profound love for the nation during the commemoration of the revolutionary leader’s 160th birth anniversary at the Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City.
In his address, Marcos emphasized that heroism is a natural trait for those whose hearts are fueled by love, concern, and understanding for their people and country. He highlighted the modern heroes among Filipinos, including nurses, doctors, teachers, police, military personnel, and overseas Filipino workers.
“Ilaan natin ang araw na ito upang pangaralan si Gat Andres Bonifacio at ang kanyang kontribusyon sa pagtataguyod ng ating pagkakakilanlan bilang Pilipino. Bukod dito, inaanyayahan ko rin ang bawat isa na tularan ang kanyang kabayanihan at pagmamahal sa bayan at ipakita ang mga ito sa ating mga pang-araw araw ng gawain,” Marcos conveyed, encouraging everyone to spend the day honoring Bonifacio and embodying his love for the country in daily actions.
Marcos emphasized the pivotal role each Filipino plays in advancing the Philippines, underscoring the importance of everyone’s participation in enriching the country’s culture, economy, and society as part of his administration’s vision for a “new Philippines.”
He encouraged Filipinos to emulate Bonifacio’s role as a beacon of hope and inspiration for their fellow countrymen, stating, “Sa diwa ng bayaning si Gat Andres Bonifacio, tayo ay tinatawag hindi lamang na ialay ang ating buhay para sa Inang Bayan kundi pati na ang pagbuhos ng ating kahusayan, galing, tapang at oras upang ang bawat hakbang natin ay maging ilaw ng pag-asa at inspirasyon para sa ating mga kababayan.”
Honoring Bonifacio for standing up for principles and defending oppressed Filipinos, Marcos acknowledged the enduring spirit of Bonifacio’s bravery and leadership even after more than a century and a half.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines led the event themed “Katungkulan at Pananagutan Tungo sa Kaunlaran ng Bayan,” emphasizing the collective responsibility for the country’s advancement.
The Armed Forces of the Philippines joined the commemoration with simultaneous flag-raising and wreath-laying rites, echoing the call to embody heroism in all actions. PA chief Lt. Gen. Roy Galido emphasized the importance of mutual understanding and a unified commitment to contributing to the nation’s welfare and promoting peace within the country’s borders.
As one of the Philippines’ national heroes, Bonifacio’s legacy lives on, co-founding the Katipunan in 1892, initiating the Philippine Revolution, and ultimately securing the country’s independence from Spanish colonial rule in 1898.
(ai/mnm)
