Unleash the hero in us, Marcos urges Pinoys

MANILA, Philippines — President Marcos yesterday urged Filipinos to unleash their inner heroes and “act genuinely for the good of another.”

“In their own ways – more often than not in less dramatic, less tragic circumstances – their selfless deeds and sacrifices have the same ability to inspire and to create a positive ripple effect in society,” Marcos said, referring to modern-day heroes within communities.

In a speech at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, Marcos noted that unnamed and unheralded heroes deserve due recognition. He earlier led the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier.

Late migrant workers secretary Susan Ople is “a perfect example of what true heroism can be,” according to Marcos.

Mothers, farmers, workers and overseas Filipino workers are among the country’s modern-day heroes, Speaker Martin Romualdez said in a statement yesterday.

“We acknowledge as well the arduous daily toil of our farmers and fisherfolk in support of their loved ones and the country’s food requirements. They, too, are our heroes,” Romualdez said.

“We salute every Filipino who does his share in building our nation. Most of all, we honor our women who tend to our families and households. They are our greatest heroes,” the leader of the House of Representatives added.

Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to unite “to overcome the challenges of the present day” and “enable us to achieve our aspirations for our country.”

“Our heroes are not only names. They do not only exist in the past. They lie within us. Let their sacrifices serve as an example as we raise a new generation of fearless, selfless Filipinos united by love of country,” Duterte added. — Elizabeth Marcelo