Duterte honors pandemic frontliners on Rizal Day

An illustration of faceless frontliners in the medical field who died due to COVID-19 while in service during the pandemic.

MANILA, Philippines — President Rodrigo Duterte honored COVID-19 frontliners, who he considers as modern-day heroes, as the nation marks the 125th anniversary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom.

In his message, Duterte urged the public to honor Rizal by “exemplifying patriotism and idealism” and “by fostering a greater sense of nationalism among the Filipino youth.”

“Indeed, true heroes give their lives for love of country and of our people. This heroism has become more manifest when the COVID-19 pandemic swept the whole world,” he said.

“People of unmatched boldness and compassion stood and fought against the odds brought by the disease in order to help save lives, even while risking their own,” he added.

President Rodrigo Duterte  (file photo)

The President also enjoined Filipinos to emulate Rizal’s wisdom and courage for a better future for the nation.

“Today, as we celebrate the life and works of Dr. Jose Rizal, let us also honor our modern-day heroes who are at the frontlines,” he said.

Duterte, on Thursday morning, led Rizal Day rites at the Rizal Park in Manila.

Rizal was 35 years old when he was executed by firing squad in Bagumbayan, Manila for the crime of rebellion under Spanish colonial rule.

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