Aquino cites boldness of Bonifacio in tribute

Philippine President Benigno Aquino III. AP FILE PHOTO

PRESIDENT Aquino on Sunday paid tribute to Andres Bonifacio for “his boldness in defending our Motherland and his determination to edify himself in the ways of his time.”

More than a century after he led a revolution of independence against Spain, Bonifacio—born on Nov. 30, 1863—“remains a vital source of inspiration,” the President said.

In a message on Bonifacio Day, Mr. Aquino cited the revolutionary leader for showing Filipinos “how to rise above our circumstance and bring glory to our nation.”

“May his example etch into our consciousness the responsibility we bear in advancing our country,” he said.

Mr. Aquino described Bonifacio as “this everyman who helped bequeath to us a future of freedom.” He added: “May we find in ourselves the courage to bolster our people’s progress and contribute to realizing a more equitable tomorrow.”

The President said: “The most recent chapter in our narrative reveals the strength we inherited from our ancestors.”

“The united force of our citizenry has positively transformed the Philippine landscape and overcome the corruption that has long afflicted our society,” he claimed.

He expressed hope that “our solidarity will endure as we journey further along daang matuwid (righteous path) … and continue our pursuit of justice.”

Mr. Aquino said he hopes marking Bonifacio Day would invigorate the country “as we set forth grander aspirations.” Jerry E. Esplanada