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Manila Bulletin devider Philippines devider National devider Filipino youth urged to carry heroes' legacy through peacebuilding

Filipino youth urged to carry heroes' legacy through peacebuilding

Published Aug 31, 2026 12:29 pm

At A Glance

  • On National Heroes Day, Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento highlighted the role of young Filipinos in building peaceful and prosperous communities.
  • He said peacebuilding promotes economic opportunity, social justice, and community empowerment.
  • The peace adviser called on young peacebuilders to "pick up the torch" handed down by the nation's heroes.
(MB FILE PHOTO)
(MB FILE PHOTO)
Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity (OPAPRU) Secretary Mel Senen S. Sarmiento on Monday, Aug. 31, called on Filipino youth to carry forward the legacy of the country’s heroes by helping build peaceful and prosperous communities.
In his National Heroes’ Day message, Sarmiento said modern-day heroism is no longer limited to serving on the front lines but also involves creating conditions where lasting peace can thrive.
“Today, the meaning of heroism has evolved. To be a hero in these modern times requires us not only to stand on the front lines. Instead, we are called to help create the conditions where genuine peace can firmly take root and flourish,” he said in a statement.
Per Sarmiento, peacebuilding promotes economic opportunities, social justice, and community empowerment that can improve the lives of Filipino families.
“Peacebuilding and heroism share a common goal. This is because fostering peace across our land paves the way for greater economic opportunity, social justice, and community empowerment, an environment that will create a brighter future for every Filipino family,” he said.
The peace adviser underscored the role of young educators, entrepreneurs, and local leaders in transforming peace efforts into concrete development in communities.
“When young educators teach in conflict-ridden areas, when youth entrepreneurs invest in marginalized communities, and when emerging local leaders bridge cultural divides, they turn the promise of peace into tangible progress,” Sarmiento said.
“These young heroes must pick up the torch handed down by our forebears and show that peace and progress are mutually reinforcing pursuits, which are both essential to building stable, peaceful, and prosperous communities,” he went on.

Related Tags

National Heroes Day Mel Senen Sarmiento OPAPRU Filipino Youth Peacebuilding Modern-Day Heroes Peace and Development
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