Duterte: Harness Filipino heroes’ virtues to fight crime, poverty

MANILA, Philippines – Acknowledging Filipino heroes’ “courage, leadership, and wisdom,” President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday, August 27, said the public should harness these virtues in the fight against issues that hinder the country’s growth. 

“We will harness the same virtues as we continue to fight against lawlessness, criminality, and poverty that hinder us from achieving our full potential,” he said in a statement commemorating National Heroes Day on Monday, August 28. 

“We are forever grateful for their noble deeds and sacrifice,” the President added.

Celebrated every 4th Monday of August as per Republic Act 9492 and as early as 1931, National Heroes Day honors and remembers all Philippine national heroes, particularly those who don’t have their own special holidays or observances. (READ: Fast Facts: National Heroes Day) 

The Filipino public, Duterte said, should strive to continuously honor heroes by “upholding the rule of law, protecting our nation, and fostering goodwill among ourselves.”

“As we commemorate the life and works of our national heroes, we must continue to embrace their ways in our daily undertakings,” he said. “Let us emulate their example as we continue to realize our ideals and aspirations for ourselves and for our country.” – Rappler.com