President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. rallied the nation on Monday, August 31, urging Filipinos to honor both historical figures and modern-day everyday heroes by embodying their bravery, fostering patriotism and actively contributing to the country’s progress.
In his message commemorating National Heroes’ Day, President Marcos emphasized that honoring the nation’s heroes requires active civic duty rather than passive remembrance.
“I am in solidarity with the entire Filipino people in the commemoration of our National Heroes’ Day. Today, I call on every Filipino to do more than remember our brave national heroes. Let us also renew our solemn duty to carry forward the nation for which they fought and sacrificed,” President Marcos stated.
The Chief Executive pointed out that while the nation’s forefathers won liberty, defended Philippine dignity, and laid the foundations of the Republic, it remains the duty of present-day citizens to continuously prove themselves worthy of that freedom.
Marcos highlighted that heroic qualities endure in contemporary society across many sectors. He explicitly recognized uniformed personnel and first responders who risk their lives for public safety, as well as the teachers, healthcare professionals, farmers, fisherfolk, and overseas Filipinos whose daily sacrifices sustain their families and the broader economy. He added that this same spirit lives in ordinary citizens who assist neighbors, protect the vulnerable and work honestly for the common good.
“Their spirit endures in every Filipino who chooses to serve, care, and contribute to a cause greater than oneself,” the President noted.
Looking toward the future, President Marcos framed these civic values as integral to his administration’s vision for national transformation, encouraging citizens to leave behind a strong foundation for generations to come.
“As we forge ahead, may we continually prove ourselves worthy of the liberty entrusted to us and build a country that generations yet to come will proudly inherit,” Marcos urged. “Let the Bagong Pilipinas we are shaping continue to revere the heroes of the past, present, and future. Mabuhay ang ating mga Bayani! Mabuhay ang dakilang lahi ng Pilipino!”
By virtue of Republic Act No. 9492, National Heroes’ Day is commemorated across the Philippines every last Monday of August. The national holiday honors all Filipino heroes, both prominent historic figures and unsung individuals, regardless of their specific period or contribution to the country.