THE CITY government and the National Historical Commission of the Philippines paid tribute to the fallen and unsung heroes by laying wreaths and commemorating National Heroes Day at the Osmeña Park on Monday, Aug. 28.
“Remember those who faithfully served our flag whether recognized or not,” Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao commander, Commodore Carlos V. Cabarre, said in his message.
“Ngayong araw na ito nararapat lang na mag-alay tayo ng mga dasal at bulaklak at bigyang parangal ang ating mga yumaong dakilang bayani (It’s vital we offer prayers and flowers on this day to pay homage to our past heroes). Each year, we reflect on the bravery of Filipinos who sacrificed sweat, blood, tears and even their lives for current freedom,” Cabarre said.
“The most profound way to honor our national heroes’ legacy is to honor and value the freedom they valiantly fought for,” he added.
Cabarre acknowledged that everyone can be considered present-day heroes as long as one is “echoing our heroes’ spirit” and is an icon of unity and will serve the public unconditionally.
“Kaya kung kayo ay mabuting ehemplo sa iyong nasasakupan sa loob ng inyong opisina, maging sa loob ng inyong tahanan, paaralan, simbahan o kahit saang organisasyon, kayo ay matatawag na tunay na bayani at ikinararangal namin kayong lahat (So, if you lead by example in your offices, homes, schools, churches, and any other organization, we can call you real heroes worthy of our pride),” he added.
The official also urged the public to promote the true meaning of heroism as “being vigilant, acting as guardians and protecting our government, dedicating time to help the less fortunate, and embracing our Filipino culture through the spirit of Bayanihan.”
Meanwhile, Mayor Sebastian Duterte stressed the theme of this year’s National Heroes Day: “Karangalan.Katungkulan.Kabayanihan,” reminds everyone to actively strive and live out the principles of the heroes to give essence to their sacrifices.
“Let us live our lives worthy of their sacrifices. Let us all work hand in hand to build a future that our heroes will be proud of,” Duterte said.
The commemoration was graced by Consulate General of Malaysia, Vice Mayor J. Melchor Quitain, Naval Forces Eastern Mindanao, Task Force Davao 10th Infantry Division, Bureau of Fire Protection, Regional Bureau of Jail Management and Penology, Knights of Rizal, and the Masonic District XI.
The celebration of National Heroes’ Day is in accordance with Republic Act No. 3827 in 1931 declaring every last Sunday of August as an official holiday. However, in 2007, former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed the R.A 9492 which set the holiday into the last Monday of August.
