By Jose Cielito Reganit
MANILA – Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Monday urged Filipinos to continue fighting corruption, injustice, and indifference, warning that tolerating these ills would betray the memory of Filipino heroes whose sacrifices won the country’s freedom.
“We remember that freedom was never given to us lightly. It was fought for, defended, and won through the blood, sweat and tears of those who came before us,” Romualdez said in his National Heroes’ Day message.
“That is why we cannot allow corruption, injustice or indifference to undo the gains our heroes secured. To do so would be a betrayal of their memory.”
According to the leader of the House of Representatives, the commemoration is not only to honor towering figures of history but also “the countless Filipinos whose quiet sacrifices made our freedom possible.”
“On National Heroes’ Day, we honor not only the great figures of our history but also the countless Filipinos whose quiet sacrifices made our freedom possible. Their courage is a constant challenge to us in public service to place the country above self,” he said.
He said the House is committed to advancing the legacy of the country’s heroes through “meaningful legislation.”
“In the House of Representatives, we strive to honor their legacy by passing laws that uplift the poor, protect our workers and farmers, and safeguard our sovereignty,” he said.
“Heroism did not end in the past. It lives on in our soldiers, teachers, health workers and ordinary citizens who put duty before comfort.”
He emphasized that every generation has its own call to heroism.
“Each generation is called to be heroic in its own way. For us today, it means uniting to confront poverty, strengthen our democracy and defend our sovereignty in the face of new challenges,” Romualdez said.
“We owe it to them, and to those who will come after us, to build a Philippines worthy of their sacrifice.” (PNA)
