MANILA, Philippines — Filipinos have been urged to remember the lessons left behind by the champions of the country’s independence.
The Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity made the call as the country celebrated its 125th Independence Day yesterday.
“Today, as our country faces pressing social, economic, diplomatic, peace and security concerns, let us remember the lessons left behind by our champions of independence and apply them as we address the challenges of nation-building,” acting presidential adviser on peace Isidro Purisima said in a message yesterday.
Purisima thanked Filipinos who risk their lives every day to protect the country.
“You are heroes of democracy in the truest sense,” Purisima said.
He said the champions of Philippine independence showed remarkable strength in standing up to foreign aggressors.
Purisima said it is disheartening to see nations and governments trying to subvert the independence of democratic and peace-loving countries as well as of their own citizens.