Duterte honors frontliners in 500th commemoration of Victory of Mactan
President Duterte honors the health and essential frontliners during Mactan’s 500th, saying they are “worthy heirs of Lapu-Lapu’s legacy.” Art rendition by Ariel Caratao of Lapu-Lapu City. CONTRIBUTED PHOTO
MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte on Tuesday honored health and essential frontliners during the 500th commemoration of the victory of Mactan, saying they are “worthy heirs of Lapu-Lapu’s legacy.”
On April 27, 1521, Lapu-Lapu and warriors of Mactan Island defeated Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, who had begun his supposed first trip around the globe.
The President said Lapu-Lapu and the warriors “fearlessly fought off foreign invaders” and “never cowered against the might of the enemy and they bled in defense of their homeland.”
“Today, we remember their gallantry by honoring the worthy heirs of Lapu-Lapu’s legacy. Our medical and essential frontliners who in face of danger caused by Covid-19 pandemic continue to risk their lives, their own lives to ensure for the safety of their fellow Filipinos,” he said in a pre-taped speech.
“Let us draw inspiration from the heroes of the past and present as we overcome the pandemic and rebuild a stronger and more resilient nation,” he added.
