Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana. (File photo)
MANILA -- The Department of National Defense (DND) on Monday urged all Filipinos, particularly the youth, to heed calls to serve the country.
"I, therefore, enjoin every Filipino to heed the call to serve our country, especially the youth who are our tomorrow’s hope," Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana said in his message in line with the observance of National Heroes Day.
The DND chief said that it is the duty and responsibility of everyone to teach the youth love of country and service to the Filipino people.
"One good way to instill and nurture love of country is through the Reserve Officers’ Training Corps (ROTC) Program in our school system. I believe that ROTC can teach our youths leadership, discipline, respect for authority and service to country," he pointed out.
Also, the DND chief reminded everyone that love of country is the foundation, upon which, the Philippines was created.
"The act of defiance against foreign domination by our forefathers despite overwhelming odds planted the seed of Filipino nationhood that evolved to become what we are now," Lorenzana stressed.
This is proven today by Filipino troops who valiantly put their lives in the line of fire and addressing all threats 24 hours a day so that all Filipinos can live in peace, he added.
This is also in honor of all heroes who are instrumental in obtaining freedom for the country, he added.
"The highest tribute we can give our heroes is to perpetuate their legacy by ensuring that their good deeds are not forgotten but instead perpetuated and emulated," the DND chief emphasized.
As this develops, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said it is joining the entire country in commemorating National Heroes' Day.
"The activities that we've prepared for today, especially the wreath-laying at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, are simple but fitting tributes to our country's countless heroes, both named and unnamed," AFP chief-of-staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Jr., said.
And while the nation honors the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for the country's freedom and independence, he said the annual commemoration also reminds every Filipinos that the challenge continues and that everyone must do their share to protect and defend the Philippines' way of life.
"The AFP hopes that the observance will fan the flame of nationalism among Filipinos; and that the spirit of this national holiday will remind every citizen that it is our duty to ensure that the legacy of our heroes will live on," Madrigal added. (PNA)
