Sara calls on Filipinos to fight social ills.

MANILA, Philippines — Vice President Sara Duterte yesterday enjoined Filipinos to take inspiration from the fallen heroes of the Battle of Bataan in taking up the fight for a sense of nationhood and curbing the ills of society, which she said corrupt the core of governance.

“The Battle of Bataan has left an indelible mark of Filipino patriotism, courage and resilience in the face of insurmountable adversity,” Duterte said in a video message posted on her Facebook account.

“Today’s Day of Valor is a firm reminder of the indomitable Filipino spirit that is able to selflessly endure the most grueling situations for the sake of liberty and in the name of our cherished freedoms,” she added.

The annual Day of Valor or Araw ng Kagitingan commemorates the Filipino and American soldiers’ fall to Japan during World War 2.

Duterte said the Filipinos’ fight for the country continues, this time to overcome the “challenges of nationhood” and the “social ills” that hinder progress.

“We are called on this occasion to embody a strong sense of bravery in rising above the unconquerable challenges of nationhood as we tirelessly commit to our enduring fight against the social ills that corrupt the core of governance and march on toward our hope of inclusive and resilient progress,” she said.

The Vice President expressed hope that the legacy of fallen heroes would continue to inspire Filipinos to enrich their national heritage and strengthen democratic institutions as they “work together in overcoming the most pressing issues of society today.”

“Let us walk together on the same path of bravery as we pursue socioeconomic advancement, uphold lasting reforms and encourage one another in promoting the deep love of country that is founded on our shared quest for a brighter tomorrow for every Filipino,” Duterte said.

“Let us be zealous in achieving our collective vision of a more progressive country, inspired by the message of bravery and valor of our heroes,” she added.