Marcos: True leaders sacrifice own interests for people's sake

President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Friday emphasized that the country’s history teaches Filipinos that true leaders sacrifice their own interests for the good of the people.

The President said this in his speech during the celebration of the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence at Quirino Grandstand.

“Ang ating kasaysayan ay nagturo sa atin na sa pagkakaisa lamang makakamit ang kasarinlan, na ang tunay na mga pinuno ay yaong nagsasakripisyo ng sariling interes para sa ikabubuti ng bayan, na ang kalayaan ay dapat inaalagaan,” Marcos said.

(Our history has taught us that independence can only be achieved through unity, that true leaders are those who sacrifice their own interests for the good of the people, that freedom must be protected.)

“Gamitin natin ang mga aral na ito upang mapaunlad ang ating bansa at mapalawig ang ating kasarinlan,” he added.

(Let us use these lessons to develop our country and prolong our independence.)

He also pointed out that there are many current challenges to the country’s freedom and development, such as corruption, inequality, and poverty.

Regardless, Marcos called on Filipinos not to get tired of loving, choosing, and fighting for the Philippines.

“Palalimin natin ang ating kamalayan, maging mapanuri sa katotohanan, gamitin natin sa tama ang ating kakayahan, hindi sa masama,” he said.

(Let us deepen our awareness, be critical of the truth, use our abilities for the good, not evil.)

“Lumaban nang patas sa araw-araw, ‘wag pagsamantalahan ang pinagpaguran ng iba, at piliin natin ang ikabubuti ng bayan laban sa interes ng iilan,” he continued.

(Fight fairly every day, do not exploit the hard work of others, and let us choose the good of the nation over the interests of a few.)

The President said that if the Filipinos remain true to these ideals, it can be ensured that future generations will inherit a stronger, more just, and more prosperous nation.—AOL, GMA News