President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipinos to strive to be "heroes in our own right" and serve as inspiration for the next generations as the country celebrates National Heroes Day.

"As we celebrate this day dedicated to our nation's heroes, let us strive to fulfill our own promise so that we may also be heroes in our own right and a source of pride and inspiration for the succeeding generation of Filipinos to emulate," Marcos said in his message on Aug. 29.

The President paid tribute to the countless Filipinos "of extraordinary courage and valor" who fought and sacrificed to establish and preserve the nation.

"We remember and honour each of them for the sacrifices they made in our behalf so that we may live in peace, security, and liberty as well as realize our full potential as Filipinos," he said.

He also encouraged the citizenry to "never forget" them as their legacy and heroism lives on in the hearts of medical professionals, civil servants, uniformed personnel, and ordinary citizens.

"Their deeds not only remind us of the nobility of our race, but also invite us to take part in the difficult but rewarding task of nation-building," the Chief Executive said.

"We are Filipinos—a people destined to greatness. In our veins flow the blood of heroes and in our bodies reside the indomitable spirit required to accomplish incredible feats so long as we manifest our will into action," he added.

During his speech at the commemoration of the National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, Marcos also honored modern-day heroes such as farmers, teachers, police, military, barangay officials, community leaders, ecological warriors, healthcare workers, overseas Filipino workers, and those working in other sectors.

"Sa araw na ito, pinararangalan natin ang ating mga makabagong bayani ng ating panahon dahil sa kanilang malasakit at kabutihang loob naging mas mabuti ang kalagayan ng ating bansa ngayon (Today, we are honoring our modern-day heroes for their concern and kindness for the betterment of our country)," Marcos said.

Be heroes

The President enjoined Filipinos to be heroes in their own right, get past challenges and contribute to nation building.

"Habang ang mga makabagong panahon ay nagbibigay sa atin ng mga pagbabagong kailangang harapin, tiyak na malalampasan natin ang kahit na anong pagsubok kung magiging bayani tayo sa ating mga sariling pamamaraan. Gamitin natin ang ating kakayahan upang panibaguhin ang ating kapaligiran para sa higit na ikakabuti ng lahat (We can certainly overcome every challenge we face in this modern times if we become heroes in our own ways. Let's use our might to contribute in the betterment of our surroundings for the good of all)," Marcos said.

Do not be limited by differences

The Chief Executive told the citizenry not to be stuck on differences and pulling each other down.

"Wag naman natin ikulong ang ating mga sarili sa hidwaan at paghihilahan ng pababa. Sa halip maging instrumento tayo ng pagkakaisa, ng kapayapaan (Let us not confine ourselves in differences and pulling each other down. Instead, let's be instruments for unity, for peace)," he said.

He enjoined Filipinos to live by the example of our heroes to reach our aspirations as a nation.

During the Heroes Day commemoration in Taguig City, Marcos also offered a wreath that honors the courage and sacrifices of past Filipino heroes who braved death or persecution for the nation, justice and freedom.

This year’s commemoration bears the theme, "Kabayanihan Tungo sa Pagkakaisa at Pag-unlad."