Presidential Communications Secretary Martin Andanar hoped that Filipinos will play their part to free the country from the shackles of the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) pandemic.
Andanar made the statement as he joined the country to celebrate its 123rd Independence Day on Saturday, June 12.
In his statement, Andanar said he hoped that the country can rise as one and overcome the effects of the pandemic.
He, however, said this will be possible if every Filipino will cooperate in stopping the spread of the disease.
"Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, may we collectively rise and recover from the challenges and difficulties it has brought to our nation," he said.
"It is when all of us play our part in this collective fight, by following all the health protocols and participating in the national vaccination program of the government, that we can be dutiful and steadfast citizens, as expected of us by our ancestors," he added.
The Palace official likewise hoped Filipinos will work on enriching themselves and not let the sacrifices of the country's heroes 123 years ago go in vain.
"It was a hundred and twenty-three years ago when our forefathers fought for our independence from colonial rule and ingrained in us the importance of freedom and liberty towards the self-actualization of every Filipino," he said.
"Let us strive to enrich ourselves with the firm foundations and aims set by our forefathers of a united, prosperous, and proud nation so that their sacrifices are not to be made vain," he added.
"May we emerge victorious from the fight against COVID-19 and become stronger from it as we look toward the brighter prospects ahead," he continued.