PRESIDENT Marcos Jr. will lead today the commemoration of National Heroes Day which recognizes the sacrifices and heroism of lesser-known heroes and unnamed heroes who fought and contributed to the country’s freedom and development as well as those who continue to fight, contribute and promote progress and welfare.
The President will lead the wreath-laying and flag-raising ceremony at the tomb of unnamed heroes at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.
This year’s theme is “Kabayanihan ng Pilipino sa Panahon ng Pagbabago.”
Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. said it is necessary to pay tribute to “present-day heroes who exemplify genuine patriotism amid the uncertainties and challenges that we face.”
In a statement, Teodoro said the defense department “is one with the nation in celebrating National Heroes’ Day.”
He said the country commemorates the “selfless actions” and pays tribute to the “valiant men and women who have shaped our nation’s history through their courage and sacrifice.”
Those who needed to be recognized are “heroes of our past, who fought for our independence” and “modern-day heroes who continue to protect and serve our country.”
“We honor their unwavering dedication and patriotism,” said Teodoro.
He said their extraordinary courage and unyielding faith in the goodness of Filipinos “impel us to do more to better secure our country and its future through diligence, perseverance, and integrity, and solidarity”
Teodoro said heroism “is confined to the fields of battle or our seas.”
He said this can be found in “our commitment to justice, our daily acts of kindness, and our efforts to uplift our fellow Filipinos as we face the future together.”
“May we draw strength from the legacy of our heroes and work together to build a nation that is free, just, and prosperous for all,” said Teodoro.
The Official Gazette said the celebration of National Heroes’ Day started during the American Colonial Period through Act No. 3827 issued in 1931 which declared the last Sunday of August as a national holiday.
However, despite the holiday, the celebration of National Heroes’ Day usually coincided with Bonifacio Day on November 30.
Through Executive Order 29, issued in 1942, then President Jose Laurel set the National Heroes’ Day to the 30th of November of every year until it was reverted to the last Sunday of August of every year through Administrative Order 190 issued by President Elpidio Quirino in 1952.
The late President Corazon Aquino, through Executive Order No. 292, declared National Heroes’ Day as a regular Holiday while President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, through Republic Act 9492 that was signed in 2007, declared the celebration of National Heroes’ Day to be every last Monday of August. — With Victor Reyes
