By NG Seruela
President Rodrigo Roa Duterte joined the Philippines in the celebration of National Heroes’ Day on Monday (Aug. 30).
In a message, the President dedicated the holiday to the “countless unsung heroes upon whose collective sacrifice the foundations of this nation was built on.”
“This National Heroes Day, we pay tribute to a new breed of heroes who readily answered the call to fight in a war against one of the greatest threats to our way of life.”
Duterte emphasized the “indomitable spirit” of the health workers, uniformed personnel, government employees, and essential workers in leading the country’s battle against the COVID-19 pandemic.
“Their names will not be etched on any edifice, statues will not be erected in their honor, banknotes will not be graced by their portraits, and their individual exploits will not be immortalized on the pages of history books. Yet, for selflessly risking their lives to ensure the survival of our society, I can confidently say that they have more than earned their rightful place on the pedestal of heroes,” he said.
He also encouraged the public to honor the country’s “modern-day heroes” who risk their lives for the “security of the Filipinos.” – jlo
