Duterte lauds Filipino frontliners on National Heroes' Day

On National Heroes' Day, President Rodrigo Duterte honored present-day heroes especially the medical frontliners who have been fighting to prevent the spread of COVID-19 in the country and even abroad.

"I join the entire nation as we celebrate this year's National Heroes' Day. Today we honor not only the valor of our forebears who fought for the motherland's freedom but also the heroism of those who risk their lives fighting a different kind of enemy," Duterte said in a video message shown at the commemoration of National Heroes' Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on Monday.

"Present day challenges posed by the current public health crisis have given rise to modern-day heroes, the country's Filipino frontliners, here and abroad who are battling the COVID-19 pandemic," he added.

Duterte encouraged the public to be inspired by the gallantry of Filipino heroes in order to create a better future for all citizens.

"I hope that the bravery of our Filipino heroes, past and present, will inspire us all to face and overcome evil in the most formidable situations. Together, let us become everyday heroes as we pursue a better future for everyone. Mabuhay ang bayaning Pilipino," he said.

In a separate message, Duterte also said he is hoping that the courage and bravery of Filipino heroes would continue to inspire citizens "to uphold our democratic institutions and rally against all threats to our freedom and sovereignty."

"In honor of our heroes, let us strengthen our resolve in overcoming the challenges ahead guided by the virtues and standards set by the stalwarts of our nation," Duterte said.

Duterte was represented in the event by Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay. The AFP chief led the wreath laying ceremony in honor for all heroes.

The theme of this year’s National Heroes' Day is, “Tunay na Kabayanihan sa Paglaban at Pagbangon."

In a separate statement, Gapay expressed belief that as Filipinos brave the challenges of trying times, "we solemnly relive our heroes' selfless deeds and remember the true essence of being a hero."

"Heroism knows no bounds and manifests in different ways. It does not matter whether one is a uniformed personnel, a public servant, or an ordinary citizen, specks of heroism are innate in all of us, urging us to perform everyday acts of valor," Gapay said.

"Indeed, what makes exceptional men and women true heroes is their commitment, a burning desire to serve. True heroes emerge when our nation needs them most," he added.

Gapay further thanked medical practitioners, law enforcers, government employees and other individuals who continue to fulfill their duties despite the health crisis.

He also stressed that the government troops never stopped in accomplishing their duties by supporting the government's response against the pandemic as well as by sustaining their operations against lawless elements.

"As our personnel continue to perform its mandate with confidence, we vow to reciprocate this trust by fulfilling our responsibility of promoting the welfare and preserving the dignity of our military force," Gapay said. —KBK, GMA News