Filipinos challenged to be 'everyday' heroes

MANILA, Philippines — Top government officials on Monday called on Filipinos to be heroes to their fellowmen by standing up for other people's freedom and rights. 

In his National Heroes' Day message, President Rodrigo Duterte urged Filipinos to become “everyday heroes” who will reach out to those who are in need, especially those who have been neglected by society. 

“I truly believe that every Filipino is a hero who can build on our vibrant legacy of fortitude and resilience. As we face the future together, I encourage everyone to embody solidarity and sustain our momentum towards positive change not only for ourselves, but for the succeeding generations as well,” the chief executive said. 

Vice President Leni Robredo, for her part, asked Filipinos to be heroes to each other. She stressed those honored on National Heroes’ Day were ordinary people who decided to make a stand when the country needed it. 

“Magsilbing paalala sana ang araw na ito na walang iisang bayani ang makapagsasalba sa atin mula sa ating kinalalagyan. Wala sa kamay ng iisang tao ang solusyon sa lahat ng ating mga suliranin at walang iisang pinuno ang makapagbibigay sa atin ng mas magandang bukas,” Robredo said.

(May this day be a reminder that there is no one hero who will save us. The solution to our problems does not lie in the hands of just one person and no single leader can bring us a better future.)

She added: “Pilipino ang bayani ng kapwa Pilipino. Ikaw ang bayani ng iyong kapwa at may kakayahan kang makagawa ng makabuluhang pagbabago sa iyong bayan at sa buhay ng iyong kapwa tao.”

(Filipinos are the heroes of their fellow Filipinos. You are a hero to others and you can make a difference to your country and to the lives of others.)

'Flame of nationalism' 

In his National Heroes’ Day message, Gen. Benjamin Madrigal, Armed Forces of the Philippines chief of staff, expressed hope the observance will “fan the flame of nationalism” among Filipinos. 

“The AFP hopes that the observance will fan the flame of nationalism among Filipinos; and that the spirit of this national holiday will remind every citizen that it is our duty to ensure that the legacy of our heroes will live on,” Madrigal said. 

Defense Secretary Delfin Lorenzana on Sunday called on Filipino youth to serve the country as he highlighted the importance of Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program.

“To perpetuate the culture of patriotism and heroism, it is our responsibility to teach the youths love of country and service to our people,” Lorenzana said. 

He added: “One good way to instill and nurture love of country is through the ROTC program in our school system. I believe that ROTC can teach our youths discipline, respect for authority and service to country.”

The Senate and the House of Representatives are tackling proposed legislations seeking to make the ROTC program mandatory among Grade 11 and 12 students. 

Groups opposed to the measure say the ROTC program would expose students to the abuse and corruption that led to the program being made optional in 2002.

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