FILE PHOTO: House Speaker Martin Romualdez. Photo from House of Representatives
MANILA, Philippines — Speaker Martin Romualdez encouraged Filipinos to unite in defending the country against encroachers as the nation commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on Tuesday.
Romualdez said the occasion should help Filipinos “reflect on the courage and bravery of our forebears who defended our freedom during the darkest chapters of our history.”
“Today, as we pay homage to their courage, we must also heed the invaluable lessons they impart. Defending Philippine sovereignty and territory is not merely a historical obligation; it is an ongoing responsibility that demands our unwavering commitment and vigilance,” he said in a statement.
READ: Marcos marks Filipinos’ ‘indomitable spirit’ on Day of Valor
“It is crucial that we stand firm in protecting our nation’s borders and asserting our legitimate claims in accordance with international law. We must affirm our sovereignty over our land, seas, and airspace, resolutely rejecting any encroachment or infringement upon our territorial integrity,” he added, referring to China’s continued harassment in the West Philippine Sea.
On Monday, the Department of National Defense confirmed that two Chinese ships were tailing a group of vessels belonging to the Philippines, Japan, Australia, and the United States that were patrolling the West Philippine Sea on April 7.
A few days before, the China Coast Guard (CCG) attacked a Philippine vessel en route to Ayungin Shoal in the West Philippine Sea using a high-power water cannon, destroying the ship and injuring the Filipino crew onboard.
READ: On Day of Valor, PH military asks Filipinos to unite vs threats
On the Day of Valor, Romualdez reminded Filipinos of the country’s “ongoing battle for freedom from poverty and inequality.”
“Just as our heroes fought for our nation’s physical borders, we must also strive to break the chains of poverty and uplift the less fortunate among us,” he said.
“Our commitment to freedom extends beyond territorial boundaries; it encompasses the liberation of our people from the shackles of poverty, hunger, and deprivation. We must stand united in the fight against poverty, extending a helping hand to the less fortunate and empowering them to build better lives for themselves and their families,” Romualdez added.