Duterte ushers in Filipinos to ‘new revolution’

MANILA, Philippines — President Duterte will not have any official activity as the country marks today the 154th birth anniversary of Filipino hero and Father of the Philippine Revolution Andres Bonifacio, but he urged the Filipinos to wage a “new revolution” – the need to liberate the country from corruption, criminality and illegal drugs. 

“It was Andres Bonifacio who ignited the fires of revolt that led to the foundation of our nation and brought freedom to our people,” Duterte said in a message.

Bonifacio started the Philippine revolution in 1896 against the Spanish colonial government. 

The President underscored the Filipino’s “solemn obligation to bring life,” relating it to Bonifacio’s aspirations, and ushered in an era of civic consciousness and nationalism. 

“At a time when the future of our country is at stake, all of us are called to become actively involved in nation-building. Let us fight to free ourselves from the grasp of corruption, criminality and illegal drugs,” he said, adding that this will liberate the people from the clutches of terror and violence and preserve Filipinos’ ideals, values and way of life. 

“As we strive to give a peaceful, orderly and comfortable life for all, may we never lose sight of our shared vision for a better and more progressive Philippines,” the Chief Executive said. 

Like Bonifacio, Duterte enjoined the nation to “light the flames of change that will bring about real and meaningful transformation in our nation.”

Duterte will not attend the traditional rites at Monumento in Caloocan City. He will instead be represented by presidential spokesman Harry Roque.

In connection with Bonifacio Day today, the Metropolitan Manila Development Authority yesterday warned motorists of heavy traffic from Balintawak to MacArthur Highway in Caloocan City due to closure of roads near the Bonifacio monument. – Robertzon Ramirez, Marc Jayson Cayabyab, Helen Flores