Manila: President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to 'live out valor' in their daily lives, urging them to uphold what is right, help others, and make meaningful contributions to nation-building as the country marks Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on Thursday. In his message, Marcos said the commemoration should go beyond remembrance, noting that heroism must be reflected in everyday actions.
According to Philippines News Agency, the President honored the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers who fought in World War II, particularly in Bataan and Corregidor. "Ngayong araw, inaalala natin ang tapang at sakripisyo ng mga Pilipinong tumindig para sa ating kalayaan (Today, we remember the courage and sacrifice of Filipinos who stood up for our freedom)," he said.
Observed every April 9, Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the fall of Bataan in 1942, when more than 76,000 Filipino and American troops surrendered to Japanese forces after months of resistance amid severe shortages. The event marked the beginning of the Bataan Death March, during which prisoners of war were forced to walk about 140 km to Camp O'Donnell, with thousands dying from hunger, exhaustion, and abuse.
The day also highlights the bravery of forces in Bataan and Corregidor, whose resistance delayed the Japanese forces' advance in the Pacific. Marcos said that the legacy of valor continues to guide Filipinos today. "Ang kanilang kabayanihan ay hindi lamang bahagi ng ating kasaysayan. Ito ay buhay na paalala na ang diwa ng kagitingan ay nananatili sa bawat Pilipinong patuloy na nagsusumikap at bumabangon para sa kanilang pamilya at sa bayan (Their heroism is not just part of our history. It is a living reminder that the spirit of valor endures in every Filipino who continues to strive and rise for their family and country)," the President said.
He said that despite evolving challenges, the values that define victory remain constant - compassion, unity, and love of country. "Sapagkat ang tunay na lakas ng isang nasyon ay hindi lamang nasusukat sa mga tagumpay na ating ipinagdiriwang, kundi sa kung paano tayo tumatayo at lumalaban bilang iisang bansa (The true strength of a nation is not only measured by the victories we celebrate, but by how we rise and fight as one people)," he added.
The President is set to lead the commemoration rites at the Mt. Samat National Shrine in Bataan.
