President Rodrigo Duterte on National Heroes’ Day lauded the country’s medical frontliners who are fighting the spread of COVID-19 in the country and 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,” the President said in a video message shown at the commemoration of National Heroes’ Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on August 31, 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.
The President encouraged the public to be inspired by the gallantry of Filipino heroes in for creating 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.
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Duterte honors Filipino frontliners on National Heroes’ Day
The theme of 2020 National Heroes’ Day is, “Tunay na Kabayanihan sa Paglaban at Pagbangon.”
Armed Forces chief Lieutenant General Gilbert Gapay, who represented Duterte in the event, expressed the 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 expressed his gratitude towards medical practitioners, law enforcers, government employees, and other individuals who continue to fulfill their duties amid the COVID-19 pandemic.