CEBU, Philippines — Believing that today’s youths are still the “hope and promise of the nation,” acting Cebu City Mayor Raymond Alvin Garcia has encouraged the youths to draw inspiration from the country’s pool of national heroes.
“In our numerous heroes, you will find on display wonderful qualities such as bravery, selflessness, patriotism, nationalism and deep love for country. Truly, they are role models worth imitating, and their examples followed,” Garcia said as the country marked the National Heroes Day yesterday.
He also reminded the youth that they need not dive deep into the history books to find heroes saying that one can easily find them today as some are also living among the people.
Among them are the medical frontliners who bravely fought the unseen enemy at the height of the COVID-19 pandemic.
Garcia honored the medical frontliners whom he said sacrificed their own safety to help combat the virus.
“Who risk their own health and safety to take care the rest of us, especially those who were at the forefront in the battle against COVID-19,” he said.
Garcia also took note of the teachers who sacrifice much of their time and efforts to mold the nation’s youth.
“We must also not forget our dear OFWs, who must bear the difficulties of living in another land and far away from their homes just so they can provide for their families and also contribute to our nation’s economy,” he said.
Acting Vice Mayor Donaldo Hontiveros, chairperson of the Cultural Historical Affairs Commission (CHAC), led the celebration at the Plaza Sugbo yesterday.
The celebration was attended by the members of the local police, Philippine Navy, Knights of Rizal, Knights of Colombus, and officials of the Department of Education. Some city hall officials were also present.
In his message, Hontiveros highlighted the contributions of each City Hall employee through giving quality service to the public which could translate to their own definition of heroism.
“Let us honor our heroes by becoming everyday heroes ourselves… Together we can build a brighter future inspired by the valor of the past. And may we all continue to serve with a heart of a true hero,” he said. — (FREEMAN)