MANILA, Philippines — On Bonifacio Day, President Rodrigo Duterte is hoping that Filipinos would emulate the patriotism and courage of Andres Bonifacio as the country grapples with the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) pandemic.
Duterte delivered the message in a taped speech aired during the wreath-laying ceremony at the Bonifacio Monument in Caloocan City to mark the 157th birth anniversary of the Filipino hero.
The President noted Bonifacio’s legacy of sparking the fires of revolution which “awakened the national consciousness” and served as the foundation of the Philippine Republic.
‘SUPREMO’ Andres Bonifacio, the Supremo (supreme leader) of the Katipunan, is among the most revered heroes of the Philippine Revolution. —INQUIRER PHOTO
“His love of country, which arose our ancestors to fight for our freedom and secure our right of place in the community of nations is very vital,” Duterte said.
“Now, more than ever, as we overcome the challenges of COVID 19 pandemic, as we remember his life and deeds, may the values he fought for inspire us all to become worthy heirs of the just, progressive, and inclusive society that he envisioned more than a century ago,” he added.
“Fuelled by Bonifacio’s extraordinary courage and determination, let us surmount the many challenges ahead and secure a much better and brighter future for every Filipino.”