President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. has called on Filipinos to honor the heroism of the country’s forebears by embodying compassion, kindness, and selflessness in daily life, as the nation commemorates Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) on Wednesday.
In his message, the President paid tribute to the bravery of Filipino and American forces who defended the country during World War II, particularly those who endured the grueling battle that led to the Fall of Bataan in 1942.
“Their remarkable story continues to inspire us all as we carry on their work of protecting our nation and building a country worthy of their sacrifice,” Marcos said.
Araw ng Kagitingan marks the surrender of Filipino and American soldiers to the Japanese Imperial Army after months of resistance with limited resources. It commemorates not just the battle itself, but the enduring courage of those who fought against overwhelming odds.
Marcos emphasized that this day is not only about remembering military strength and courage but also about appreciating the quieter forms of heroism that persist today — those found in small, selfless acts of compassion.
“This year’s commemoration shows that our country is a cradle of heroes and heroines — a home of noble men and women who, regardless of risk or cost, willingly gave a part of themselves and even their lives for the sake of their beloved nation,” he said.
He underscored that true valor is not confined to the battlefield.
“Valor is not solely about strength and resolve in the face of adversity but also about small acts of compassion, generosity, and kindness that create meaningful ripples of positive change in our communities,” he added.
Marcos urged citizens to continue following the example of past heroes by advancing causes that uplift others and benefit the country as a whole.
“Through acts of genuine service and self-offering to the nation, we can prove that we are not only made of the same noble stock as our noteworthy ancestors but also the rightful heirs of their heroic legacy and the faithful successors of their struggle to build a strong, secure, and prosperous Bagong Pilipinas,” he said.
The President is set to lead the Araw ng Kagitingan rites in Bataan on Wednesday morning. Later in the day, he will also preside over a ceremony in Camp Aguinaldo for beneficiaries of the Comprehensive Social Benefits Program, which supports uniformed personnel who have been killed or wounded in the line of duty.