President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Thursday commemorated the 108th birth anniversary of his father, the late former President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., calling on Filipinos to live lives of service, sacrifice, and defense of national dignity.
At a wreath-laying ceremony at the Marcos Monument, the President described his father’s legacy as anchored on devotion to the nation, selflessness, and the protection of Filipino dignity.
“It is a legacy of service. It is a legacy of sacrifice,” Marcos said. “If you are going to be a good Filipino, then you must be willing to sacrifice everything, including your life, for the Filipino, for the Philippines.”
He urged that honoring Marcos Sr. should go beyond ceremonies and be reflected in daily actions that serve the people. The President also recalled his father’s advice to “make your own way” to bring progress to Filipinos.
The commemoration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Immaculate Conception Parish, followed by the wreath-laying. Marcos also distributed medical equipment to local governments, witnessed a culinary showcase of Ilocano vegetable dishes, and received a floral crown and traditional Ilokano serenade during the Marcos Day celebrations.