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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Keep democracy alive and vibrant, Romualdez tells Pinoys

Keep democracy alive and vibrant, Romualdez tells Pinoys

Published Jan 23, 2024 07:52 am

At A Glance

  • House Speaker Martin Romualdez reminded Filipinos on Tuesday, Jan. 23, to commit themselves to upholding and preserving democracy in the country even in times of disagreements.

8D26C5B8-1852-4FC9-B023-6E349FF5790F.jpegHouse Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez (Speaker’s Office)

House Speaker Martin Romualdez reminded Filipinos on Tuesday, Jan. 23, to commit themselves to upholding and preserving democracy in the country even in times of disagreements.

“Gamitin natin ang pagkakataong ito upang muling ialay ang ating sarili sa demokrasya sa loob at labas ng bayan nating mahal,” Romualdez said in a speech.

(Let's use this opportunity to recommit ourselves to democracy inside and outside of our beloved country.)

“Kahit may ilan na maaaring hindi sumang-ayon dito, naniniwala ako na ang pagpapanatili ng mga prinsipyong demokratiko ay sapat na dahilan upang tayo ay magdiwang,” he added.

(Although some may disagree with this, I believe that the preservation of democratic principles is reason enough for us to celebrate.)

The Speaker made this appeal during his solidarity message on the occasion of the 125th anniversary of the First Philippine Republic. To commemorate this, an event was held at the historic Barasoain Church in Malolos City, Bulacan.

The founders of the First Republic adopted the first republican constitution in Asia, as they pursued the dream of establishing an independent and sovereign nation.

Romualdez, leader of the 300-plus strong House of Representatives, said this dream has become a reality thanks to Filipinos’ active participation in the democratic process.

“Sa loob ng simbahang ito—pinagkaisahan ang paniniwala na ang tunay na kapangyarihan ay nagmumula sa mga mamamayan,” the House leader said.

(It was inside this church that it was agreed upon that true power comes from the people.)

He continued: “Ang paninindigan na ang bawat Pilipino ay may pantay na mga karapatan. Ang kapangyarihan na hubugin ang kaunlaran ng bansa sa pamamagitan ng pagpili sa mga opisyal na mananagot sa taumbayan."

(The affirmation that every Filipino has equal rights. The power to shape the growth of the country by choosing officials who are accountable to the people.)

As the country commemorated an integral part of its history, Romualdez expressed optimism that Filipinos will continue to pursue further prosperity for the Philippines.

President Marcos was the guest of honor at the event. Members of the 19th Congress and local government officials were also present.

Related Tags

House Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez First Philippine Republic anniversary democracy
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