Manila: House Speaker Faustino 'Bojie' Dy III on Thursday called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of the country's heroes, emphasizing that true bravery continues to be reflected in everyday acts of service and nation-building. Dy made the call as the country marks the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan with the theme 'Giting ng Bayani, Pamana sa Salinlahi,' which highlights the enduring legacy of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of Filipino veterans, and aims to inspire the country's current and future generations.
According to Philippines News Agency, the Speaker said the observance is a reminder of the valor shown by Filipino soldiers who fought for freedom and the continuing responsibility of today's generation to uphold and strengthen the nation. 'Ngayong Araw ng Kagitingan, ginugunita natin ang tapang, sakripisyo, at pagmamahal sa bayan na ipinakita ng ating mga bayani - lalo na ng mga sundalong Pilipino na lumaban para sa ating Kalayaan (Today, we commemorate the valor, sacrifice and love of country shown by our heroes - especially the Filipino soldiers who fought for our Freedom),' the Speaker said in a video message.
He stressed that the liberties enjoyed by Filipinos today were earned through sacrifice and must be protected through collective effort and commitment to the country. Dy added that 'their courage reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were not given freely - they were earned through sacrifice.'
The Speaker noted that heroism is not confined to moments of war but is also seen in the daily lives of Filipinos who serve others, help their communities, and work toward a better future. 'Ang tunay na kagitingan ay hindi lamang makikita sa gitna ng digmaan. Nakikita rin ito sa araw-araw na pagsisikap ng bawat Pilipino na maglingkod, tumulong sa kapwa, at magtayo ng mas maayos na kinabukasan para sa ating bansa (True valor is not only seen in the midst of war. It is also seen in the daily sacrifices made by every Filipino to serve and help fellowmen, and build a better future for the country),' he said.
Dy expressed hope that the example of the country's heroes would continue to inspire unity, patriotism, and public service across generations. 'Nawa'y magsilbing inspirasyon ang kanilang halimbawa upang patuloy nating mahalin, ipagtanggol, at paglingkuran ang ating inang bayan (May their example serve as an inspiration for us to continue loving, defending and serving the motherland).'
Meanwhile, Senator Erwin Tulfo paid tribute to uniformed personnel and civilians stationed in Pag-asa Island, saying their daily service reflects the enduring spirit of resilience embodied in the national anthem. 'Sa manlulupig di ka pasisiil. Hindi n'yo lang ito inaawit kundi araw-araw ninyong pinapatunayan na di kayo pasisiil (You shall not be conquered by the oppressors. You do not just sing this - you prove every day that you will not be subdued),' Tulfo said during an Araw ng Kagitingan event.
He also underscored the need to support front-line communities, citing ongoing and planned assistance, such as livelihood aid, infrastructure projects, and improved access to health services. Tulfo said assistance programs, including financial support and community facilities, are being lined up to benefit families in remote areas, alongside initiatives to improve transport access and deliver regular medical services.
Meanwhile, Senator Francis 'Kiko' Pangilinan honored soldiers who endured the Bataan Death March, citing their sacrifice as a symbol of patriotism. 'Silang mga naglakad, nauhaw, at naubos sa Death March at nagpamalas ng tapang at pagmamahal sa bayan noong Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdigan (Those who marched, suffered thirst, and perished during the Death March showed courage and love of country during World War II),' Pangilinan said.
He also recognized modern-day heroes, including overseas Filipino workers, transport workers, teachers, laborers, farmers, and fisherfolk, who continue to persevere despite economic challenges. 'Sa araw na ito, nagbibigay-pugay tayo sa ating mga bayani ng panahon (On this day, we honor our modern-day heroes),' he added.
Both senators emphasized unity and collective action as key to overcoming present-day challenges, echoing the spirit of heroism commemorated on Araw ng Kagitingan.
