REMEMBRANCE. Loved ones bring flowers to one of the graves at Libingan ng mga Bayani in Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City on Tuesday (April 9, 2024). They are among the proud descendants of World War II veterans whom the nation is honoring on Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor). (PNA photo by Yancy Lim)
MANILA – Lawmakers on Tuesday urged Filipinos to stand united in defending the nation against encroachers and in improving the lives of the poor.
In his Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) message, House of Representatives Speaker Martin Romualdez said Filipinos should take the occasion as an opportunity to “reflect on the courage and bravery of our forebears who defended our freedom during the darkest chapters of our history.”
“Today, as we pay homage to their courage, we must also heed the invaluable lessons they impart. Defending Philippine sovereignty and territory is not merely a historical obligation; it is an ongoing responsibility that demands our unwavering commitment and vigilance,” he said.
As the world faces geopolitical complexities and territorial disputes, Romualdez said “it is crucial that we stand firm in protecting our nation's borders and asserting our legitimate claims in accordance with international law.”
“We must affirm our sovereignty over our land, seas and airspace, resolutely rejecting any encroachment or infringement upon our territorial integrity.”
At the same time, Romualdez reminded Filipinos that Araw ng Kagitingan is also about acknowledging the ongoing battle for freedom from poverty and inequality.
“Our commitment to freedom extends beyond territorial boundaries; it encompasses the liberation of our people from the shackles of poverty, hunger and deprivation. We must stand united in the fight against poverty, extending a helping hand to the less fortunate and empowering them to build better lives for themselves and their families.”
“Together, let us forge a future where the sacrifices of our heroes are honored not only through the defense of Philippine sovereignty but also through our dedication to uplifting the lives of the less privileged,” Romualdez said.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri encouraged Filipinos to apply the essence of the national anthem.
“Palagi nating kinakanta, 'Lupang Hinirang, duyan ka ng magiting.' Panawagan po ito sa atin na isabuhay ang giting at tapang ng ating mga bayani, na nagbigay ng kanilang sarili para sa bayan (We always sing, 'Land dear and holy, cradle of noble heroes.' This is a call for us to put into practice the nobleness and bravery of our heroes, who gave their lives for the country),” Zubiri said in a statement.
“Wala ng ibang magtatanggol sa ating bayan kung hindi tayo mismo. Tayo ang maniniguro na ‘sa manlulupig, di pasisiil’ ang ating mahal na Pilipinas (No one else will protect our country but ourselves. We will ensure that our beloved Philippines will not succumb to oppression)," he added.
For Senate Pro Tempore Loren Legarda, the Day of Valor should be dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices made by modern-day heroes like overseas Filipino workers, soldiers and police officers, public servants, teachers, healthcare workers, farmers and fisherfolk, indigenous people, and even ordinary Filipinos.
"Manatili sanang buhay sa ating diwa ang mensaheng dala ng Araw ng Kagitingan at patuloy sana itong maging tanglaw sa ating patuloy na pagharap sa mga hamon sa buhay ng may determinasyon, katapangan at pagmamahal sa bayan (May the message of the Day of Valor remain alive in our spirit and may it continue to be our beacon in facing life's challenges with determination, courage and love for the country)," Legarda said.
Senator Grace Poe likewise reminded Filipinos of the Philippine Veterans Week to honor the unparalleled valor of war veterans who defended the country against invaders and “kept the Philippine flag flying supreme over our land and waters."
She emphasized the importance of giving back to the veterans and their families and vowed to push for more legislations that will advance their welfare. (With a report from Wilnard Bacelonia/PNA)
