Marcos: Defend freedom, never be cowed by threats, oppression

MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos should protect the freedom they enjoy today and never be cowed by threats and oppression, President Ferdinand “Bongbong” R. Marcos Jr. said Wednesday, the 126th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine independence.

Marcos made the pronouncement in another public message, paying tribute to the country’s forefathers who fought for Philippine independence and peace.

“Bilang tagapagmana ng kalayaan na tinatamasa natin ngayon, tungkulin ng bawat isa sa atin na pangalagaan ito at tiyaking hindi na tayo kailanman magpapatinag sa ano mang banta ng pananakot, pananakop, at pang aapi,” said Marcos.

(As inheritors of the freedom we enjoy today, we must protect it and ensure that any threat of intimidation, conquest and oppression will never again sway us.)

He also called on Filipinos to strengthen their courage, unity, and cooperation, adding that each Filipino can be a hero in the modern age.

“Gamitin natin ang ating dunong at sipag sa bawat gawain, at ang pinakamahalaga, maging mapagkumbaba, mapagmahal sa bayan, at marangal tayo sa lahat ng oras,” the President said.

(Let’s use our wisdom and diligence in every task, and most importantly, be humble, loving and honorable at all times.)

Marcos’ Independence Day message comes amid heightened tensions between the Philippines and China.

China has been encroaching on Philippine waters after claiming the majority of the South China Sea, including parts of the West Philippine Sea, through its so-called nine-dash line.

On Monday, Marcos told the Philippine Army to prepare for “external threats” due to escalating heightened geopolitical tension in the Indo-Pacific.