President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to become heroes in their own right by upholding the principles of democracy, following the rule of law, and defending the nation’s sovereignty.

“In the spirit of shared responsibility, I call on everyone to be heroes in their own right. Uphold the principles of democracy, abide by the rule of law, and defend our sovereignty,” President Marcos said during the commemoration of the National Heroes Day 2024 at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday.

“Let us acknowledge the significance of history and pass it on to our young Filipinos so we can nurture in our children the love of country; for it is only in that patriotism that we can preserve our national identity,” he stated.

The President also rallied the nation to pay homage to the past “so that we can be worthy of the freedom that our ancestors fought for and of the Bagong Pilipinas that we can proudly leave to succeeding generations.”

With this vision, Filipinos can build a nation where the dreams of Filipino heroes are realized in every home, community, and in every Filipino’s heart.

While the country dedicates Monday’s event to honor its heroes, the President said they should not lose sight of the present and future challenges.

“Let us carry on the great legacy of our brave ancestors with the fortitude of an enlightened mind, the strength of compassion and generosity, and the courage of our convictions,” he said.

In addition to remembering the heroes of the past, the President acknowledged modern-day heroes such as soldiers, healthcare workers, overseas Filipinos, ordinary laborers, educators, journalists, farmers, fisherfolk, and Filipino athletes for their contributions to nation-building.

President Marcos was the guest of honor and keynote speaker during Monday’s event, which carried the theme: Kabayanihan ng Pilipino sa Panahon ng Pagbabago (Heroism of Filipinos in the Time of Change). PND