Duterte on Independence Day: Emulate heroes as nation faces challenges of pandemic
MANILA, Philippines — On Independence Day, President Rodrigo Duterte urged the Filipino people to draw inspiration from heroes who fought for the country in facing challenges brought by the COVID-19 pandemic.
“The challenges of the past years attested our character as a nation. Each of us have been called upon to be heroes in our own rights in fighting for our survival and devoting ourselves to the common good just as our heroes did more than a century ago,” Duterte said in a taped message aired during the commemoration of Independence Day at Rizal Park in Manila on Saturday.
“With their noble example inspiring us to look forward to a brighter future filled with hope, we will overcome the challenges brought by this pandemic. May the patriotic fervor continue to burn in our hearts. Mabuhay ang malayang Pilipinas,” he added.
Justice Secretary Menardo Guevarra and Manila Mayor Francisco “Isko Moreno” Domagoso led the flag raising ceremony at Rizal Park.
National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Rene Escalante was also in attendance.
The President is expected to attend an Independence Day rites in Malolos, Bulacan this Saturday afternoon.
