MANILA, Philippines – Vice President Leni Robredo reminded Filipinos that they are tasked to continue protecting the freedoms their forefathers fought for when the Philippines was liberated from Spain 121 years ago. 

Robredo led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Rizal Park, Manila, during the commemoration of Independence Day on Wednesday, June 12. (READ: LIST: 2019 Independence Day rallies)

“Sa paggunita natin ngayon ng ating kasarinlan, sana ay balikan natin kung paano, bilang isang lahi, ay pinili nating sundin ang sarili nating landas, magtayo ng sarili nating gobyerno, at magtatag ng sariling estado,” said Robredo in a statement. 

(As we commemorate our sovereignty, I hope we also remember how, as a people, we chose to carve our own path, establish our own government, and establish our own state.)

“Sa pagtutulak ng interes na ito, inako natin ang responsibilidad na gumawa ng isang lipunang malaya, makatarungan, at makatao. Isang lipunan kung saan ang bawat Pilipino ay may oportunidad na mabuhay nang sagana at mapayapa,” she added. (READ: Small but significant ways you can fight for freedom)

(As we push for these interests, we have inherited the responsibility to create a society that is free, just, and humane. A society where every Filipino has the opportunity to live a prosperous and peaceful life.) 

The Vice President then said it is also the duty of the country’s leaders to ensure that all Filipinos will get equal chances to improve their lives.

“Bilang mga lingkod bayan, nasa ating pananagutan ang pangarap na ito para sa bawat Pilipino: na lahat ay kabahagi at walang maiiwan. Na lahat ay may pantay-pantay na oportunidad sa pag-unlad,” said Robredo.

(As public servants, it is our responsibility to fulfill this dream for every Filipino: that everyone will be part of progress and no one will be left behind. That everyone has equal opportunities to improve their lives.)

Since her rise to the vice presidency in 2016, Robredo has established her flagship anti-poverty program Angat Buhay, where the Office of the Vice President links private companies and non-governmental organizations to partner-communities and local government units in need of assistance.  

“Paghugutan sana natin ng lakas ang araw na ito upang harapin ang mga hamon na hinaharap ng bansa. Nawa’y pukawin ng pagdiriwang na ito ang isang malalim na pagmamahal para sa bayan, at maging paalala sa bawat isa ng kung ano ang kaya nating marating sa ating pagbabayanihan,” said Robredo. 

(May we draw strength from this day to continue facing the challenges of our country. May this celebration invoke a deep love of country, and serve as a reminder to everyone of what we can achieve when we work together.)

Joining Robredo during the ceremony at Luneta were outgoing Manila Mayor Joseph Estrada and Armed Forces of the Philippines Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Salvador Mison. – Rappler.com