Marcos, VP urge Filipinos to protect dignity, fight for justice

Emphasizing Gat Andres Bonifacio's courage, nationalism, and unwavering fight against injustice, President Marcos urged the nation to draw inspiration from him in protecting their dignity and embracing their duties.

- BETHEENA UNITE and PATRICK GARCIA

In his message on the 162nd birth anniversary of Bonifacio on Nov. 30, Sunday, Marcos stressed that the values the revolutionary hero had upheld remain vital in safeguarding the freedoms he once fought for.

Thus, he encouraged Filipinos to set them as their guide and inspiration in striving toward a peaceful and free Philippines.

"Tulad ni Gat Andres, pangalagaan natin ang ating dangal at manatiling puspos ng kadakilaan sa mga gawaing para sa ikabubuti ng lahat (Like Gat Andres, let us protect our dignity and remain filled with greatness in all actions done for the good of everyone)," Marcos said.

"Buong-lugod nating isapuso ang tungkuling wala nang hihigit pa sa pag-ibig sa ating inang Bayan (Let us wholeheartedly embrace the duty that nothing is greater than love for our Motherland)," Marcos added.

The President reflected on how Bonifacio's ideals continue to resonate in today's complex and challenging times, emphasizing that the hero's courage and steadfast commitment to freedom remain a powerful reminder of the responsibilities Filipinos carry in protecting the nation's hard-won liberties.

"Sa panahong puno ng hamon, binigyang-sigla niya ang sambayanan upang tumindig para sa kalayaan at tumutol sa kawalang katarungan na nagpapahirap sa ating lipunan (In a time full of challenges, he inspired the nation to stand for freedom and to resist the injustice that burdened our society," he said.

"Bagaman higit isang siglo na ang nakalipas, patuloy siyang nagbibigay-inspirasyon sa bawat isa sa atin, at pinagniningas rin ng kanyang alaala ang ating determinasyong pangalagaan ang kasarinlang kanyang ipinaglaban noon at ating pinahahalagahan ngayon (Although more than a century has passed, he continues to inspire each one of us, and his memory fuels our determination to protect the freedom he once fought for and which we cherish today)," he added.