Army hosts National Heroes Day commemoration at Libingan ng mga Bayani

August 26, 2019

The Philippine Army hosted the National Heroes Day commemoration at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday.

Lt. Col. Ramon Zagala, Philippine Army spokesman, said House Speaker Alan Peter Cayetano represented President Rodrigo Duterte during the wreath laying ceremony.

"Other AFP and Philippine National Police personnel, government leaders, veterans and students were also present in the event," he said.

Zagala said "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,” said Cayetano.

"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,” Zagala said.

Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Benjamin Madrigal expressed hope that the commemoration of  National Heroes Day will "fan the flame of nationalism among Filipinos."

"While we honor the men and women who have made the ultimate sacrifice for our country's freedom and independence, we are also reminded that the challenge continues and that we each must do our share to protect and defend our way of life," he said.

"The AFP hopes that the observance will fan the flame of nationalism among Filipinos; and that the spirit of this national holiday will remind every citizen that it is our duty to ensure that the legacy of our heroes will live on," he added. Robina Asido/DMS