SPEAKER Ferdinand Martin G. Romualdez on Monday cited ordinary Filipinos, among them teachers, fishermen, Philippine Coast Guard, law enforcers, overseas Filipino workers (OFWs), champion gymnast Carlos Yulo, boxers Nesthy Alcayde Petecio and Aira Cordero Villegas, and members of the Philippine delegation to the 2024 Paris Summer Olympics in France for their acts of heroism.
In a National Heroes Day message, Speaker Romualdez said as the nation honors the memory of the “brave men and women who laid the foundations of our nation’s freedom and sovereignty…let us also recognize the countless everyday heroes among us — ordinary Filipinos quietly making extraordinary contributions to our nation and the world.”
“These modern-day heroes contribute to the betterment of our nation in their own unique ways. They remind us that heroism is not limited to grand gestures or acts of bravery in the face of danger. It is found in the quiet yet powerful acts of service that uplift others and contribute to the greater good,” he said.
“Whether it’s the fishermen of Masinloc protecting our marine resources or the teachers in remote areas ensuring that no child is left behind, OFWs who represent the spirit of hard work, perseverance, and sacrifices for national development, and the men and women of the Philippine Coast Guard and other law enforcers who defend the country’s territorial integrity in the West Philippine Sea, these modern-day heroes exemplify the true essence of nation-building,” he said.
The leader of the 300-plus-strong House of Representatives specifically cited the achievements of Yulo, who won two gold medals and bronze medalists Petecio and his constituent Villegas, and all members of the Philippine delegation to the recent Olympics.
“Their victories on the global stage demonstrate how perseverance and dedication can lead to extraordinary accomplishments. They too are modern heroes, representing our nation with honor and inspiring a new generation of athletes to pursue their dreams,” he said.
For many Filipinos, Speaker Romualdez said contributing to nation-building “is heroism enough.”
“By doing their part in their communities and families, they are shaping the future of our country. Every time a citizen upholds the law, participates in community activities, or simply cares for their family, they are strengthening the integrity of our nation,” he said.
He urged every Filipino “to find inspiration in the lives of these modern heroes.”
He reminded them that heroism “does not always require grand gestures – sometimes, it lies in the small, everyday acts of kindness, compassion, and service to others.”
“Let us continue to work together to be everyday heroes in our own right, building a nation our forebears would be proud of – a nation where every Filipino has the opportunity to achieve their dreams, and where every act of goodness contributes to a brighter future for all,” he said.
“In unity and service, we find our strength. Let us celebrate the heroes of our past, our present, and those who will continue to rise in the future,” he added.
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