Metro Manila, Philippines – On the 128th anniversary of Philippine independence, Vice President Sara Duterte urged Filipinos to honor the sacrifices of heroes while calling for accountability in government and warning against corruption that she said threatens freedom and sovereignty.
Duterte said the declaration of independence in 1898 was achieved through the courage and sacrifices of Filipinos.
“Pinili nila ang paglaban kaysa pagsuko, ang dangal kaysa pagpapasakop,” she said.
[Translation: They chose to fight rather than surrender, and dignity over subjugation.]
The vice president said sovereignty is challenged by foreign powers and undermined by corruption and abuse of public office.
“Nawawala rin ito sa tuwing ang serbisyo publiko ay nagiging pribadong negosyo. Kung ang mga opisyal ng gobyerno ay mala-sindikato sa pagnanakaw ng pera ng bayan,” she said.
[Translation: Sovereignty is also lost whenever public service becomes a private business and when government officials act like syndicates in stealing public funds.]
Duterte said corruption deprives people of opportunities and basic services, noting that every peso lost to corruption affects education, healthcare, and livelihoods.
“Ang korapsyon ay hindi lamang pagnanakaw ng pera. It steals opportunity, it steals dignity, and it steals hope. And ultimately, it steals freedom itself.”.
[Translation: Corruption is not merely the theft of money. It steals opportunity, dignity, and hope. Ultimately, it steals freedom itself.]
“Tumindig at makibaka tayo sa mga pwersang susubok na pangunahan ang ating kapalaran. Kasama ang pag-asa na galing sa hindi masupil na kapangyarihan mula sa puso ng bawat Pilipino,” she added.
[Translation: Let us stand and struggle against forces that seek to dictate our destiny, carrying the hope that comes from the unconquerable strength found in the heart of every Filipino.]
Duterte urged the people to safeguard freedom and sovereignty.
