President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. has described his late namesake father as a true Filipino and Ilocano icon as he led the commemoration of the late President's 106th birth anniversary in Batac, Ilocos Norte on Monday, Sept. 11.

In his speech, Marcos described his father as "a true Filipino and Ilocano icon whose exceptional mind matched the nation-loving spirit that he possesses and that he demonstrates."

The President said Marcos Sr. will be remembered for the "peace and order that he fought and stood for," which inspired Filipinos to build on and feel the dreams that he left in the hearts of many.

President Marcos likewise urged the youth and government officials to aspire for more significant roles and meaningful endeavors.

"It is my earnest hope that my late father's values, ideals, and visions for the country will spur you into aspiring for greater roles and more meaningful endeavors—much like how these have inspired me," he said.

"Let us act in our own small and unique ways to support the government, to support our people in all the initiatives and programs, and continue to instill in every Filipino the sense of ownership and accountability in building our great nation," he added.

The Chief Executive reminded everyone of the Philippines' value and the work that needs to be done, noting the "unwavering pursuit of unity" his father passionately espoused to the people.  

"The Philippines is ours to love, and the path to a new Philippines—a more equitable, sustainable, and resilient one—is ours to make," Marcos said.

"In his memory, may our actions from this point on be directed by the desire to preserve and share the rich heritage of our province, of our nation," he added.

Marcos and his family thanked everyone for joining them in revisiting the life of the late Marcos Sr., who "left such a rich legacy to the nation."

Malacañang has issued Proclamation No. 327, declaring Sept. 11 as a special non-working day in Ilocos Norte, to mark the birth anniversary of the former President.

Ferdinand Edralin Marcos was born on Sept. 11, 1917, in Sarrat, Ilocos Norte.