DAVAO CITY – Vice President and Education Secretary Sara Duterte reminded Filipinos of their duty and ethical obligation to maintain freedom by learning from past mistakes and addressing the challenges hindering the country’s progress.
VICE President Sara Duterte (FB)
The Vice President issued the reminder on the 126th anniversary of Philippine Independence on June 12.
She said the freedom being experienced by Filipinos stemmed from their unwavering determination to restore the right to self-governance as an independent nation.
Duterte said that Independence Day is a remembrance and recognition of the heroes' sacrifices for the country’s freedom and independence and a reminder for all Filipinos to unite for a stable, peaceful, and prosperous Philippines.
“While we pay tribute to our forefathers’ countless sacrifices and reflect on the past, we must also look towards the future as the country’s independence is not just a historical milestone but an unceasing journey,” Duterte said.
She encouraged Filipinos, particularly the young generation, to sustain the values of patriotism and democracy and make wise decisions that benefit themselves and contribute to the greater good.
“Remember that the consequences of your actions and choices can shape the future. May you be the driving force for positive change in the country that embodies the spirit of independence," said the Vice President in her speech.
Duterte led the wreath-laying ceremony at Rizal Park on San Pedro St. with Davao City Vice Mayor Jay Melchor Quitain Jr., Police Regional Office-11 deputy director for administration Brig. Gen. Wilson Soliva, and Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao Commodore Alfonspin Tumanda Jr.
As the NFEM joined the celebration of Philippine Independence Day, Tumanda encouraged Filipinos to work together to create a nation that values freedom, democracy, and equality.
The Mindanao Development Authority (MinDA) remembered the courage and love of national heroes who sacrificed their lives for the freedom of the Philippines in its Independence Day message.
In a video message, MinDA Chairman Leo Tereso Magno saluted the national and new heroes – ordinary Filipino citizens demonstrating courage, resilience, sacrifice, and love for the country in their daily lives.
“We in Mindanao stand with you in promoting a peaceful, prosperous, and progressive nation. Mabuhay ang Pilipino. Mabuhay ang Bagong Pilipinas (Long live to the Filipino people, long live to the new Philippines),” Magno said.
Aside from local and national government agencies, the Diplomatic Corps from China, Malaysia, Indonesia, Japan, and the Japanese Chamber of Commerce were also present during the celebration.