PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte urged the Filipinos on Tuesday, November 30, to emulate Katipunan leader Gat Andres Bonifacio’s bravery and love for the country, especially as the Philippines battles against the coronavirus disease (Covid-19) pandemic.

"I invite every Filipino to become a hero like Bonifacio by participating actively in our nation building efforts, especially those challenges times when we have to secure our nation’s health, safety, and wellness," Duterte said, as he graces a Bonifacio Day ceremony at the Pinaglabanan Shrine in San Juan City Tuesday.

The country commemorated Tuesday, November 30, the 158th birth anniversary of Bonifacio.

"In this light, I call on our kababayans to emulate Gat Andres Bonifacio’s strong sense of civic duty, courage, love of country in our daily lives even in the simplest ways. May we be challenged to give our very best for the benefit of our people and nation," Duterte said.

He offered a wreath and posthumously conferred the Order of Lapu-Lapu with the Rank of Magalong to Bonifacio.

The award was received by Bonifacio’s great granddaughter, Buena Grace Distrito Casanova.

Duterte also expressed gratitude to Bonifacio for paving the way for the liberty and independence Filipinos are enjoying nowadays.

"Remembering the heroism of our gallant forebear Bonifacio provided the sense of hope, determination and optimism for today’s generation of Filipinos, especially as we surmount difficult challenges in our time including the Covid-19 pandemic," the President said.

The event coincided with the opening of the newly restored El Deposito Underground Reservoir and the new diorama exhibit at the Museo ng Katipunan that showcases the historical Battle of San Juan del Monte. (SunStar Philippines)