‘Emulate bravery of Bataan defenders’

MANILA, Philippines — As Filipinos commemorated Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) yesterday, President Marcos called on Filipinos to emulate the bravery and resilience of the country’s heroes during World War II to overcome “foul forces” and other present challenges confronting the nation.

While present challenges are in no way less grave, the President said “foul forces” continue to threaten the country “outside and within,” endangering its hard-fought gains.

“There are times when our struggles seem too complex or too daunting. Still, these are precisely the moments that we must stand by our cherished freedoms and principles, perform our tasks with utmost dedication and diligence and fight fiercely for a better life and a brighter future,” Marcos said in his message.

“Thus, on our commemoration of the Day of Valor or Araw ng Kagitingan, let us emulate the bravery, integrity and resilience of the heroes and heroines of Bataan so that, like them, we may emerge triumphant in the trials of our time,” he said.

The President made the remarks in light of China’s repeated harassment of Filipino resupply vessels in Philippine waters.

Marcos led the commemoration of the 82nd anniversary of Araw ng Kagitingan at the Mt. Samat National Shrine or Dambana ng Kagitingan in Pilar, Bataan. Among those who joined the President were Japanese Ambassador Endo Kazuya, US embassy Chargé d’affaires Robert Ewing, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr., Defense Secretary Gilbert Teodoro and National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairperson Lisa Guerrero Nakpil.

Facing criticisms due to her silence on the continued Chinese aggression in the West Philippine Sea, Vice President Sara Duterte on Tuesday marked Araw ng Kagitingan by urging Filipinos to remember and take to heart the courage and love of country demonstrated by the heroes who fought during World War II.

“In commemorating the heroic veterans on the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan, I join the Filipino people in paying tribute to their unmatched sacrifices for the freedom we enjoy today,” Duterte said.

“They are unique examples of courage and love for the country. Their desire to defend the honor and integrity of our country in times of war is an inspiration that we must emulate and cherish. So let’s continue to take to heart and focus on the lessons of our history,” she added.

Duterte has been sought for comment on the continued Chinese aggression in the WPS but has been refusing to answer such queries, deferring to other government agencies.

On Monday, Duterte referred to the statement of her brother, Davao 1st District Rep. Paolo Duterte, where he said questions relating to China should be addressed by concerned government agencies.

“No comment. I think Congressman Paolo’s statement is already comprehensive. That should be answered by the Department of Foreign Affairs and Secretary of National Defense,” she said.

Salute to soldiers

Teodoro and AFP chief Brawner offered a salute to Filipino soldiers who fought bravely for the country on the occasion of Araw ng Kagitingan yesterday.

Both called on all Filipinos to be inspired by their gallantry which allows the Philippines to enjoy the fruits of freedom today.

“The whole Defense department offers its wholehearted salute to the Filipino veterans who fought for the freedom, independence and peace of our country. May their valor serve as an inspiration in uniting the society in facing the challenges of today, towards a peaceful, strong and prosperous nation,” Teodoro said.

Brawner, for his part, declared that as the whole nation and the AFP commemorate Araw ng Kagitingan, “we honor and pay tribute to the indomitable spirit and unwavering courage of our heroes who valiantly fought for the freedom and liberties we enjoy today.”

In honor of Filipino veterans, Brawner called on all Filipinos to “not only reflect on the sacrifices of the past but also reaffirm our commitment to upholding the principles of democracy, peace and freedom for which our forefathers fought so valiantly.”

“Let us honor their legacy by standing united in the face of challenges and working tirelessly towards a brighter future for our beloved country. May the spirit of courage and heroism that defines Araw ng Kagitingan continue to guide and inspire us as we strive to build a nation worthy of the sacrifices of our brave heroes,” he said.

Meanwhile, the Philippine National Police (PNP) appealed for unity among Filipinos as a way to honor the country’s heroes.

“Let us honor the memory of our heroes by fostering unity, justice and peace within our communities,” the PNP said as it reaffirmed its commitment to upholding the principles of freedom, democracy and sovereignty. It vowed to protect the rights and well-being of all Filipinos.

The PNP said the sacrifices of Filipino soldiers during World War II serve as a reminder of the true price of freedom and the importance of standing against tyranny and oppression.

“Their resilience and patriotism in the face of adversity serve as a lasting symbol of Filipino heroism,” it said.

Some 800 PNP personnel were deployed for the commemoration of the 82nd Araw ng Kagitingan and observance of the Philippine Veterans Week, with the theme “Pagpaparangal sa Kagitingan ng mga Beterano: Saligan para sa Nagkakaisang Pilipino.” — Emmanuel Tupas, Ric Sapnu, Neil Jayson Servallos, Ramon Efren Lazaro, Marc Jayson Cayabyab