Taguig city: Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. urged Filipinos to remain steadfast in their commitment to the Republic despite facing numerous challenges.

According to Philippines News Agency, Teodoro delivered this message during a wreath-laying ceremony commemorating the 84th "Araw ng Kagitingan" (Day of Valor) and the 2026 Philippine Veterans Week at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. He emphasized the temptation to take the easy way out for short-term gains during times of crisis and called on the nation to uphold resilience.

Teodoro further expressed that by participating in the ceremony, Filipinos have chosen to stand for the Republic of the Philippines, asserting that the nation cannot yield to external pressures against its interests, territory, and welfare. He highlighted the importance of building national strength to engage with other countries from a position of relative parity.

He warned against believing groups that suggest the Philippines is initiating disputes, clarifying that the country is merely defending what its veterans have fought for. Teodoro underscored the importance of developing a competitive, young, and growing population equipped with both morals and skills to face threats and seize future opportunities.

Additionally, Teodoro mentioned ongoing efforts to honor veterans' legacies through enhanced services, such as upgrading the Veterans Memorial Medical Center and improving access to decentralized medical care for veterans.