President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Sunday called on Filipinos to uphold courage, dignity, and love of country as the nation marked the 162nd birth anniversary of Gat Andres Bonifacio, a commemoration that comes amid heightened public clamor for accountability in government.
In his message, Marcos emphasized that Bonifacio’s life continues to serve as a moral compass for a nation confronting challenges to governance and public trust.
“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 committed to deeds that serve the common good),” 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 surpasses love for our Motherland),” he added.
The President said Bonifacio’s courage and belief in equality forged a people united against injustice, noting his role in awakening the Filipino spirit against oppression and inspiring collective action for freedom and justice.
He also said Bonifacio’s ideals of equality, dignity, and reform shaped the Katipunan and guided the Filipino struggle for sovereignty.
“Mula sa kanyang payak na pinagmulan hanggang sa kanyang pagkahirang bilang Supremo, ipinamalas ni Bonifacio na ang tunay na kabayanihan ay nagmumula sa puso — sa tapang, sa dalisay na hangarin, at sa wagas na pag-ibig para sa bayan (From his humble beginnings to his rise as Supremo, Bonifacio showed that true heroism springs from the heart — from courage, pure intention and genuine love for country),” Marcos added.
He urged Filipinos to embody Bonifacio’s commitment to nation-building.
The Department of National Defense also joined the commemoration, saying that Bonifacio’s “unwavering courage, steadfast patriotism, and commitment to the nation’s freedom continue to inspire the men and women of the defense sector in upholding peace, security, and the sovereignty of the Filipino people.” (PNA)