Duterte remembers Pinoy heroes on Araw ng Kagitingan

MANILA, Philippines — Recalling the long-standing alliance between the Philippines and the United States exactly 76 years ago today, President Duterte is paying tribute to the heroism of Filipinos who fought for democracy.

In a one-page message, the President called for a meaningful observance of Araw ng Kagitingan or the Day of Valor while recognizing the sacrifices of Filipino veterans who fought alongside American soldiers to defend freedom and against invading Japanese forces.

“Seventy-six years passed since Filipino and American troops fought side by side in defense of our democratic way of life. Immeasurable sweat, blood and tears were shed and countless lives were lost during this dark chapter in our history to ensure that our people may pursue their endeavors freely,” Duterte said.

Duterte, who has deflected efforts to indict him before the International Criminal Court for alleged human rights violations, said there still hover clouds of threat to the country’s freedom. 

“It is thus disquieting that our commemoration of this historic occasion comes at a time when the very freedoms that the heroes of Bataan fought for are once again imperiled,” he said. 

He described the threats as those who have disrespect for the country’s institutions, without directly stating if he was referring to those who want to bring him to ICC or those that his allies dubbed as groups behind destabilization moves against the government.

“Forces who wish to see a weak and submissive Philippines continue in their disrespect for the institutions and laws that embody our aspirations as a people,” Duterte said.

Charting an independent foreign policy since he assumed office in 2016, Duterte also reiterated that “it is our sacred duty to defend the honor of our motherland.”

“We owe it to our forefathers to demonstrate the same courage and valor that sustained their gallant stand more than seven decades ago,” the President said. “Let the spirit of Bataan inspire us to resist any affront to our dignity and inviolable rights as a free, sovereign and independent nation.”