PRESIDENT Rodrigo Duterte called on his fellow Filipinos to be "everyday hero" and emulate the altruism of the country's national heroes.
Duterte made the call in his message to the nation on National Heroes Day on Monday, August 26.
The President expressed hope that his countrymen would lend a hand to the needy.
"This National Heroes Day, I call on all Filipinos to reflect on our history and honor the brave souls who courageously fought for our freedom and the democratic ideals upon which our nation was founded," the President said.
"Let us make our forebears proud of our triumphs as a people by being everyday heroes who will reach out to those who are in need, especially to the ones who have been neglected by society," he added.
National Heroes Day, held every last Monday of August, is a regular public holiday to honor and remember the country's national heroes.
Duterte acknowledged that the heroes' collective sacrifice "has made it possible for us to enjoy the blessings of liberty and to continue strengthening this great nation that they have left behind."
Wishing for a "meaningful celebration" of National Heroes Day, the President was optimistic that herosim will likewise be observed by the succeeding generations.
"We recognize their heroism not only by erecting statues in their honor, but by uplifting the welfare of the poor and marginalized for it is through our small deeds that their spirit of valor can live on," he said.
"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," Duterte added. (SunStar Philippines)