Marcos to Filipinos on Independence Day: Protect truth from distortion

PBBM’s Independence Day message on June 12, 2026 (Presidential Communications Office)

MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Friday called on Filipinos to “protect truth from distortion,” saying the country now faces challenges different from those confronted by the nation’s heroes.

In his message to mark the 128th anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence, Marcos said safeguarding freedom remains a shared responsibility even as the threats facing the nation have evolved.

“While our forebears fought colonial oppression through revolution, reform, and intellectual resistance, we face challenges of a different kind today,” Marcos said.

“We must protect truth from distortion, harness technology wisely, and restore trust in a time increasingly marked by division and distrust,” he added.

“How we respond to these demands will shape the course of our nation and define what we pass on to future generations.”

Marcos noted that while Filipinos no longer face colonial oppression, the responsibility of safeguarding the country’s freedom remains.

He stressed that freedom is “not merely a legacy we inherit but a responsibility we must uphold.”

The President also paid tribute to the country’s heroes and generations of Filipinos who helped build and strengthen the Republic, saying their sacrifices should inspire active citizenship, good governance, and solidarity.

Marcos ended his message by wishing everyone a meaningful Independence Day celebration. /gsg