Duterte hopes for ‘truly independent’ Philippines

Pia Ranada

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Duterte hopes for ‘truly independent’ Philippines

Rappler

President Rodrigo Duterte will commemorate Independence Day with soldiers in Malabang, Lanao del Sur

MANILA, Philippines – President Rodrigo Duterte hopes for true independence for the country “within our lifetimes,” he said in his 2019 Independence Day message on Wednesday, June 12.

Saying Filipino heroes fought for this future, Duterte said present-day Filipinos should help uplift the country.

“Let us commit ourselves to ensure that their sacrifices have not been in vain and that their dream of a truly independent Philippines – whose people live freely in a secure, stable, and prosperous society – will be achieved within our lifetimes,” said Duterte.

 

He described the day the Philippines gained independence as “the most significant event in our country’s history.”

“Not only did we put an end to more than 3 centuries of subservience but we also resolved to determine the course of our own destiny as a nation,” he said.

“The tree of liberty blossomed on these lands because it was nourished by the sweat and blood of our patriots, heroes, and martyrs,” he added.

Duterte will commemorate the national holiday in Malabang, Lanao del Sur, with soldiers of the military’s 6th Infantry Battalion. 

Malacañang could not explain why Duterte chose this venue for Independence Day, given more traditional celebrations usually held in Cavite.

“I’ll ask him about that. There must be some special reason, and I’m sure he will say that in his speech,” said Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo. 

There will also be a commemoration event in Cebu organized by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (READ: LIST: 2019 Independence Day rallies– Rappler.com

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Pia Ranada

Pia Ranada is Rappler’s Community Lead, in charge of linking our journalism with communities for impact.