Duterte leads Independence Day rites for 2nd time since presidency, honors heroes

President Rodrigo Duterte on Saturday led the celebration of the country’s 123rd Independence Day at the Bulacan Capitol Grounds in Malolos, Bulacan.

This is Duterte’s second time to be physically present during Independence Day rites since assuming his post on June 30, 2016.

Duterte also paid tribute to heroes General Gregorio Del Pilar and Marcelo H. Del Pilar by conferring on them posthumously the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Magalong.

“I, therefore, consider it a great honor to bestow upon them through their kin… the Order of Lapu-Lapu, in recognition of their extraordinary acts and heroism that serve as the foundation of this nation,” Duterte said in his speech.

“On behalf of the Filipino people, let me convey our heartfelt gratitude to General Gregorio Del Pilar at Gat Marcelo H. Del Pilar. Marami pong salamat sa inyong dalawa (thank you very much),” he added. 

The award was received by Marita Villatema-Santos, grandniece of General Gregorio del Pilar.

Earlier, Duterte urged Filipinos to follow the examples of Philippine heroes as the country battles the COVID-19 pandemic.

"The Philippines has indeed come a long way since the time of the heroes we honor today. We are now a nation that is modern, progressive, and ever-thriving," he said.

"However, our continued progress will only be possible if we have a strong understanding and appreciation of the liberties that we enjoy today. Let us move forward in solidarity and give greater meaning to the freedom of our forebearers achieved for us," he added.

Meanwhile, Duterte said a “wall of heroes” is being built at the Libingan ng mga Bayani. 

“At lahat ng mga namatay, mga doctors, mga nurses… will be honored by their name inscribed in that wall. It is now being built, and I’d like to thank the Armed Forces of the Philippines for their pagmalasakit,” he said.

Others in attendance include Chief Presidential Legal Counsel Salvador Panelo, Senator Christopher “Bong” Go, Armed Forces chief General Cirilito Sobejana, Philippine National Police chief Guillermo Eleazar, National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairperson Dr. Rene Escalante, Bulacan Governor Daniel Fernando, and Malolos Mayor Gilbert Gatchalian, among others.

Flag ceremonies and wreath laying were also held on Saturday in Manila and other areas to mark Independence Day.

US President Joe Biden also sent a video greeting, calling on continued partnership between America and the Philippines amid the pandemic and regional tension.

Duterte earlier issued Proclamation No. 1107 declaring June 12 as a regular holiday. —KG, GMA News