MANILA – President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Wednesday (12 June 2024) called on Filipinos to demonstrate their patriotism and unity in defending the country’s territory, as the Philippines celebrated its 126th Independence Day.

“Our ancestors did not back down from war, and we will not shy away from our duty to defend our territory,” Marcos declared during the culmination of the week-long celebration of the nation’s liberation from colonial rule.

Marcos emphasized that the observance of Independence Day is not just a commemoration of the birth of the Philippine Republic but a reaffirmation of the commitment to uphold the legacy of the nation’s forefathers.

“Let us show the world that true power is not measured by strength or wealth but by the integrity of our cause, the fervor of our patriotism, and the unity of our people,” he said. “We will remain steadfast and unshaken.”

The President highlighted the importance of learning from history to build a better and freer future, urging Filipinos to take pride in their heritage.

“Always remember: History is the key to genuine freedom and a future full of hope, clarity, and prosperity,” he stated.

Marcos’ call to action comes amid rising tensions in the West Philippine Sea due to China’s continued aggression.

Sovereignty and security

National Security Adviser Eduardo Año reaffirmed the government’s dedication to protecting the nation’s sovereignty and security amidst current global challenges.

Año reiterated that defending sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea is a top priority, stressing the importance of upholding the 2016 Arbitral Award and a rules-based international order to ensure maritime entitlements are respected.

“We are committed to safeguarding our nation’s sovereignty and freedoms, countering both internal and external threats to ensure the safety and well-being of every Filipino,” Año added.

(el Amigo/mnm)

By Liza Soriano

MANILA — Senators on Wednesday (June 12, 2024) joined the celebration of the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence Day.

Senate Pro Tempore Jinggoy Estrada emphasized that Filipinos should demonstrate to the world “our unity and determination in defending our rights, natural resources, and our territory.”

“Ang pagmamalasakit sa isa’t isa ay ang pinakamalakas nating sandata laban sa mga dayuhang pwersa na nagnanais baguhin ang ating teritoryo at pahinain ang ating soberanya,” he added.

Senator Grace Poe stressed the importance of protecting and defending the country’s independence.

“Let us never forget: The independence we enjoy now must always be protected and defended. There can be no true progress if we yield our rights and dignity as a nation.”

Meanwhile, Senator Risa Hontiveros urged Filipinos to safeguard the country’s national interests.

“Kailangan natin ng pantay na pagkakataon para sa lahat, proteksyon para sa mga kababaihan at bata, pangmatagalang hanapbuhay para sa mga tumataguyod sa pamilya, at mas mababang presyo ng pangunahing pangangailangan,” she added.

(el Amigo/mnm)

MANILA – In a historic event, Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) personnel aboard the BRP Teresa Magbanua raised the national flag at Sabina Shoal in the West Philippine Sea for the first time on the country’s 126th Independence Day, June 12, 2024.

The ceremony took place amidst the presence of several Chinese vessels. PCG spokesperson Rear Admiral Armando Balilo noted that this was the inaugural flag-raising at Sabina Shoal, a significant area within the Philippines’ exclusive economic zone (EEZ).

“BRP Teresa Magbanua is stationed at Sabina Shoal to ensure safety and security in these waters,” Balilo stated.

During the event, PCG personnel observed eight Chinese vessels within the shoal and four more in the surrounding area, all closely monitoring the proceedings.

The flag-raising was led by PCG Lt. Efren Duran along with the crew of the BRP Teresa Magbanua. This landmark event marks a symbolic assertion of Philippine sovereignty in the contested waters.

In a related effort, the Philippine Navy received 190 cases of assorted food items for troops stationed at various outposts in the West Philippine Sea, showcasing public support for the nation’s sailors and troops in these critical areas, according to Navy chief Vice Admiral Toribio Adaci Jr.

(el Amigo/mnm)

By Liezelle Soriano

MANILA — Job fairs will be conducted on Independence Day wherein over 100,000 local and overseas employment opportunities are up for grabs, according to the Department of Labor and Employment (DOLE).

A total of 106,298 local vacancies and 5,165 overseas vacancies will be offered by over 1,000 employers.

The top vacancies are production worker/operator, customer service representative, cashier, bagger, sales clerk, laborer, carpenter, painter, service crew, cook, waiter, and server.

“Job seekers are encouraged to be ready with their application requirements, such as resume or curriculum vitae, diploma, transcript of records, government clearances, and certificate of employment for those formerly employed,” DOLE said.

Most job fairs will be conducted in malls for the convenience of applicants and employers, the agency said.

The list of job fair sites nationwide may be accessed through this link: https://ble.dole.gov.ph/job-fair-schedules.

(el Amigo/mnm)