Young Filipinos were encouraged by President Marcos to take inspiration from Apolinario Mabini to succeed in life.

Leading the commemoration of the 160th birthday anniversary of Mabini in Tanauan City, Batangas on Tuesday, July 23, Marcos urged young Filipinos to continue immortalizing the life of Mabini towards a more progressive nation.

“Tinatawagan ko ang mga kabataang Pilipino ngayon na gawing inspirasyon at halimbawa ang buhay ni Apolinario Mabini upang magpunyagi sa buhay (I call on the Filipino youth to make Apolinario Mabini as an inspiration and example to strive in life),” Marcos said in his speech.

“Nawa’y higit [na] maunawaan ng mga [nakababatang] henerasyon ang kaniyang mga pilosopiyang pampulitika at panlipunan upang sila ay mahikayat na mag-ambag sa pagsulong ng ating bansa (May the younger generation understand his political and societal philosophies to encourage them to contribute in the progress of our nation),” Marcos added.

In his speech, the President honored Mabini's life which proved that every Filipino has the capability to succeed in life despite all the challenges.

He urged Filipinos to stand united in fulfilling the aspirations of Mabini towards a “Bagong Pilipinas” where everyone has an opportunity to become a productive member of a compassionate and united community.

Often referred to as the Sublime Paralytic, Mabini was born in poverty on July 23, 1864 in Talaga, Tanauan, Batangas. He received his law degree in 1894 from the University of Santo Tomas. He contracted an illness in his 30’s, paralyzing his legs.

Despite the disability, Mabini developed an impressive mind and deep patriotism and lived a selfless life motivated by high ideals.

Mabini went to the forefront of the 1898 revolution against Spain. He became known as the brains of the revolution against the United States, and Chief adviser of General Emilio Aguinaldo in the same year.

He crafted the Constitution for the First Philippine Republic, including the framework of the revolutionary government implemented in Malolos, Bulacan in 1899. He was appointed as Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of then newly independent government of President Aguinaldo.

Mabini was arrested twice by the Americans, set free, and exiled to Guam. He expressed his love for the country through his passion for literature. And, one of his notable works was his memoir titled: “La Revolucion Filipina.”

Mabini died of cholera in 1903 at the age of 38.