MANILA. The Philippine National Police deploys personnel for a military parade rehearsal near Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park in Manila on Monday, June 11, 2018, despite heavy monsoon rains and thunderstorms, in preparation for the 120th Independence Day celebration on June 12. (PNA Photo)
MANILA. The Philippine National Police deploys personnel for a military parade rehearsal near Quirino Grandstand at the Rizal Park in Manila on Monday, June 11, 2018, despite heavy monsoon rains and thunderstorms, in preparation for the 120th Independence Day celebration on June 12. (PNA Photo)

Duterte: 'Defend cherished democratic ideals'

PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte, in a message for the 120th Independence Day celebration, called on his fellow Filipinos to defend the "cherished democratic ideals" that led to the Philippines' liberty from the Spanish rule.

Duterte looked back at the country's bloody history, acknowledging the ultimate sacrifices of the forefathers who bravely fought and offered their lives to ensure that the present generation would live in a nation that is free from colonialism.

"This historic day forms the foundation of the liberties we enjoy today. Through the patriotic fervor shown by our forefathers, we have freed ourselves from colonial subjugation and proved to the world that we stand united as the pioneer of Republican democracy in Asia," the President said.

"Inspired by the sacrifices of those who have bravely stood before us, may we also find the courage to defend our cherished democratic ideals now and in the years to come," he added.

The Chief Executive urged his fellow countrymen to emulate the Filipino heroes' unity and valor to achieve "meaningful and lasting change" in the country.

He also expressed hope that a "brighter and better" future would prosper, even though the country is confronted with "social ills" like rampant narcotics trade, criminality, and corruption in government.

"May solidarity and heroism exhibited by our ancestors fuel our desire to spur meaningful and lasting change in our communities as we collectively battle the social ills of corruption, illegal drugs and criminality that impede our progress as a nation," Duterte said.

"By cherishing the sovereignty that is borne out of the sweat and blood of our heroes, we stand firm and unwavering in our conviction to create a brighter and better future for all Filipinos-regardless of their status in life."

The country's independence from Spain was proclaimed on June 12, 1898 at the ancestral house of the first Philippine president, Emilio Aguinaldo, in Kawit, Cavite.

In the observance of the 120th Philippine Independence Day, Duterte was expected to to lead the traditional laying of the wreath at the Aguinaldo tomb and raising of the Philippine flag at the Aguinaldo Shrine balcony at 8 a.m. of Tuesday, June 12.

Last year, Duterte skipped the Independence Day rites at Rizal Park in Manila to address Marawi conflict. (SunStar Philippines)

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