AFP celebrates National Heroes’ Day with Libingan ng Mga Bayani rites

The Philippine Armed Forces on Monday commemorated National Heroes Day with a ceremony at the Libingan ng Mga Bayani in Taguig.

In a statement, the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) said the rites honored the Filipino heroes from World War II and their contribution to the country’s freedom.

The ceremony was highlighted by the laying of wreaths at the Tomb of The Unknown Soldier and the opening of the exhibit "Mga Bayani ng Ikalawang Digmaang Pandaigdig."

Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea presided over the ceremony.

Also present were National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairman Rene Escalante, Taguig Mayor Lino Cayetano, and Philippine Veterans Affairs Office Undersecretary Ernesto Carolina.

In a video message, President Rodrigo Duterte recognized the country’s patriots who fought and made sacrifices for freedom, as well as the modern-day heroes who are fighting the COVID-19 pandemic. 

“I join the entire Filipino nation in celebrating National Heroes’ Day. With pride and joy, we honor the noble sacrifices of our ancestors who fought to celebrate our country and establish the thriving democracy that we are today,” he said.

“As we overcome the COVID-19 pandemic, let us honor our modern-day heroes, our medical frontliners and all essential workers who sacrifice their lives, comfort, and security to serve our fellow Filipinos,” he added.

AFP chief Lieutenant General Jose Faustino acknowledged the life and legacy of the national heroes as cornerstones of the Philippines’ freedom, independence, and democratic ideals.

“In today's challenges, let us continue to honor their sacrifices and remember that we can all be heroes in our own respective fields and in our own little ways,” he said.

In a separate statement, Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana paid tribute to the heroes of Philippine history.

He cited the Philippine ancestors who fought the Spaniards, the Americans, and the Japanese to defend the country, as well as the troops who protected Zamboanga and Marawi against threats.

“Today, we take inspiration from their legacy and heroism as we battle a new and dangerous invader, the COVID-19 virus. The challenges we currently face call upon all of us to become heroes ourselves,” he said. — DVM, GMA News