Metro Manila, Philippines – President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to remain steadfast in their love for the country despite the challenges, and said that nation-building requires citizens to continue choosing the common good over personal interests and divisions.
Speaking during the 128th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine independence at Rizal Park in Manila on Friday, June 12, Marcos said the sacrifices of heroes should inspire the people to confront challenges with the same sense of unity and purpose.
“Sa bawat Pilipino, ito ang aking panawagan: Huwag po tayong mapagod na mahalin, piliin, at ipaglaban ang Pilipinas,” Marcos said.
[Translation: To every Filipino, this is my call: let us not get tired of loving, choosing, and fighting for the Philippines.]
The president said the lessons of the past extend beyond commemorating the struggle for independence and should guide the people in addressing challenges, including corruption, poverty, division, global uncertainties, and climate change.
“Ang ating kasaysayan ay nagturo sa atin na sa pagkakaisa lamang makakamit ang kasarinlan; na ang tunay na mga pinuno ay yaong nagsasakripisyo ng sariling interes para sa ikabubuti ng bayan; na ang kalayaan ay dapat inaalagaan,” he said.
[Translation: Our history has taught us that independence can only be achieved through unity; that true leaders are those who sacrifice personal interests for the good of the nation; and that freedom must be protected.]
Marcos said he is confident in the resilience and character of Filipinos, citing the nation’s ability to recover from adversity and unite in crisis situations.
He called for discernment in seeking the truth, for the people to use their talents responsibly and reject actions that take advantage of others.
“Palalimin natin ang ating kamalayan. Maging mapanuri sa katotohanan. Gamitin natin sa tama ang ating kakayahan, hindi sa masama. Lumaban nang patas sa araw-araw. Huwag pagsamantalahan ang pinagpaguran ng iba,” he said.
[Translation: Let us deepen our awareness. Be discerning in seeking the truth. Use our abilities for good, not for harm. Fight fairly every day. Do not take advantage of the hard work of others.]
The president also urged the people to place national interest above personal or political agendas.
“At piliin natin ang ikabubuti ng bayan laban sa interes ng iilan,” he said.
[Translation: Let us choose what is good for the nation over the interests of a few.]
He also reminded Filipinos that freedom was obtained through the sacrifices of past generations.
