FORT BONIFACIO, Metro Manila – The Philippine Army hosts the National Heroes’ Day commemoration today, August 26, at Libingan ng mga Bayani, Taguig with House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano representing President Rodrigo Duterte.
Cayetano and the Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff, Vice Admiral Gaudencio Collado Jr. led the wreath-laying ceremony at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier in remembrance of the Filipino heroes who sacrificed their lives for the country.
“Consider this day solemn not only to honor these heroes but also to remind ourselves that we also have that obligation to make a choice. Today we should recommit ourselves to the choice to sacrifice [and] to love our country,” Cayetano said.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) is the lead agency tasked in this commemoration activity. Its chairman, Dr. Rene Escalante, mentioned the historical and heroic acts of the early Filipinos, as the commission prepares for the 5th centenary victory of Lapu-Lapu during the Battle of Mactan in 1521. Said commemoration will be held in 2021 which will promote the values of unity, magnanimity, and Filipino identity.
Other AFP and Philippine National Police personnel, government leaders, veterans and students were also present in the event.
“As the Philippine Army remembers the gallantry of our heroes that freed our country, we also call on every Filipino to embody the patriotism and heroism our forefathers showed through unity as we continue to build a better nation for future generations,” said the Army Spokesperson, Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala.#
