PRESIDENT MARCOS URGES FILIPINOS TO UPHOLD UNITY, FREEDOM ON 128th INDEPENDENCE DAY

PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Friday urged Flipinos to uphold unity and freedom during the celebration of the 128^th Philippine Independence Day.

The President led the nation in commemorating the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence during ceremonies held at Rizal Park in Manila on Friday, June 12.

According to the President, it was through the Katipunan under Andres Bonifacio and the continued struggle led by General Emilio Aguinaldo that Filipinos were able to unite and eventually proclaim independence in Kawit, Cavite, on June 12, 1898.

The President said Philippine history teaches that freedom can only be secured through unity, that genuine leaders are those who sacrifice personal interests for the common good, and that freedom must be constantly protected and nurtured.

The President also pointed to contemporary challenges confronting the nation, including corruption, poverty, division, global developments, and the effects of climate change.

Despite these difficulties, President Marcos expressed confidence in the resilience and character of the Filipino people, citing their ability to stand up for what is right, care for one another, and rise above adversity, particularly during disasters.

The President urged Filipinos to become more discerning, use their talents responsibly, and prioritize the welfare of the nation over personal interests.

“Sa bawat Pilipino, ito ang aking panawagan: Huwag po tayong mapagod na mahalin, piliin, at ipaglaban ang Pilipinas,” President Marcos said.

The President also reminded the public that the peace, sovereignty, and freedom the country enjoys today were won through the sacrifices of previous generations.

“Tandaan natin na ang kapayapaan, kasarinlan, at kalayaan na ating tinatamasa sa ngayon ay tinubos ng dugo ng mga nauna sa atin,” President Marcos added.

President Marcos was accompanied by First Lady Louise Araneta-Marcos and members of the First Family—House Majority Leader and Ilocos Norte 1st District Rep. Ferdinand Alexander “Sandro” Marcos III, Joseph Simon Marcos, and William Vincent Marcos.

Also joining the President during the commemorative rites were Manila City Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso and other government officials.

Other distinguished guests in attendance were Acting Senate President and Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian; House Speaker Faustino Dy and members of the House of Representatives; Dean of the Diplomatic Corps and Apostolic Nuncio to the Philippines Most Rev. Charles John Brown; members of the diplomatic corps; Cabinet officials; major service commanders; Philippine National Police (PNP) Chief Gen. Jose Melencio Nartatez Jr.; and Philippine Coast Guard (PCG) Commandant Adm. Ronnie Gil Gavan and other digitaries.