PNP chief calls for recognition of national heroes' sacrifices
By Chito Chavez
Philippine National Police (PNP) chief Gen. Archie Gamboa on Monday hailed the heroes whose unselfish sacrifices helped the country gain independence from foreign rule during the observance of National Heroes Day.
He recognized the heroism demonstrated by the country’s heroes, including Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio and General Antonio Luna. He said their heroism paved the way for establishing an independent and sovereign republic.
“Hindi maipagkakaila ang napakalaking ambag ng ating mga bayani kung ano tayo ngayon na haligi nito ay ang kanilang dugo't pawis, sakripisyo, at pagmamahal nang lubos sa ating bansa (It cannot be denied that the huge contribution of the heroes in terms of their blood, sweat, sacrifices and love of country have enabled us to attain our present status),’’ Gamboa said.
Gamboa said that recognizition of the deeds of heroic Filipinos’ love of country should not be solely confined to the pages of history books.
In the midst of the COVID-19 pandemic, Gamboa said that the “frontliners’’ have displayed the same heroic acts exhibited by the country’s forefathers.
“Kabilang dito ang ating mga doktor, nars, at iba pang lupon ng kaanib sa propesyong medikal na nagsisilbing sandigan ng ating laban kontra COVID-19 (They include doctors, nurses and other health workers who served as the backbone against COVID-19),’’ he added.
Aside from the health workers, Gamboa also recognized the efforts of the police force who risk their lives to ensure public safety in the midst of the health emergency crisis.
Gamboa also lauded all the other “frontliners” who provided a bit of comfort and reprieve to the public in this trying times of the pandemic.
“At ang buong lakas ng PNP ay narito para sa mapayapa, maayos at maunlad na komunidad dahil hangad natin ang pagkakaroon ng matiwasay na pamumuhay ang bawa’t pamilyang Pilipino (The entire strength of the PNP force is geared towards maintaining peace and order and contributing to the country’s progress so that every Filipino family could live securely),’’ Gamboa stressed.