Senate of the Philippines. Photo courtesy of PNA.
Senators on Friday marked the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence by calling for a kind of freedom that reaches beyond commemoration and is felt in the daily lives of Filipinos.
Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian said independence remained unfinished while millions continued to face poverty and limited opportunities.
Gatchalian said the legislature must stay focused on public service despite political noise and institutional challenges, stressing that lawmakers had a duty to work for the people.
Sen. Risa Hontiveros also said freedom loses meaning when Filipinos continue to suffer and when government fails to respond to those most in need.
Senators Loren Legarda and Francis Escudero said independence must be defended through strong institutions, responsible leadership, and governance that protects the public interest every day.
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada said democratic institutions must be guarded against outside influence and interference, adding that freedom should not only be celebrated but also defended.
Several senators also used their Independence Day messages to call for unity and patriotism, with JV Ejercito, Bong Go, Vicente Sotto, and Migz Zubiri urging Filipinos to put service, compassion, and love of country above division.
Senators Bam Aquino and Francis Pangilinan said the occasion should remind government to create more opportunities through education, jobs, and stronger democratic safeguards, while also confronting calamities, corruption, and threats to sovereignty with hope and resolve.
