President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has urged Filipinos to transcend political barriers and asked them to take inspiration from the late Senator Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr. as he joined the public in commemorating Aquino's 40th death anniversary.

Marcos said this as the public remembered Aquino's martyrdom on Monday, Aug. 21.

In his message, the President encouraged the public to set aside political differences and unite for the country’s welfare and progress.

"In our resolute quest for a more united and prosperous Philippines, let us transcend political barriers that hamper us from securing the comprehensive welfare and advancement of our beloved people," he said.

"Let us imbue ourselves with clarity of mind and unity in purpose so we can proceed towards a future that resonates with our hopes and dreams," he added.

The President recognized Aquino, his father's staunchest critic, as an icon of relentlessness and resolve.

"By standing for his beliefs and fighting for battles he deemed right, he became an example of relentlessness and resolve for many Filipinos," he said.

Marcos hoped that the love for the country would promote collaboration, celebrate diversity, and create a society that is teeming with vitality and inspiration.

He urged Filipinos to develop a country grounded in reason and fortitude, where political biases fade and the welfare of all is everyone's priority.

"When our love for nation becomes the compass that guides our words and actions, we foster an environment where empathy, compassion, and dialogue prevail, leading us to a more enlightened and harmonious society," he said.

"As we take measured yet realistic strides towards progress, let us allow our steadfast spirit to drive us to uplift every Filipino and build an inclusive and more progressive Philippines," he added.

In accordance with Republic Act No. 9256, the 21st day of August of every year is declared as Ninoy Aquino Day.

Aquino, the husband of the late President Corazon Aquino, is best known as a senator and a critic of the previous Marcos administration. He was one of the first to be arrested and imprisoned for trumped-up charges of murder, illegal possession of firearms, and subversion when martial law was declared. He was allowed to run in the 1978 elections.

After suffering two heart attacks in 1980, the Aquino family, as arranged by the former First Lady Imelda Marcos, flew to the US for his procedure. However, he was assassinated upon his return to the country in 1983.

Two years after his death, Filipinos managed to oust the Marcoses through the historic EDSA People Power Revolution.