As the country commemorates its 125th anniversary since it proclaimed Independence from its colonizers, President Ferdinand 'Bongbong' Marcos Jr. challenged Filipinos to assert their liberties day by day.

"Now, in the age where battles remain but occur in places the eyes cannot see, it is more necessary to take to heart the immeasurable courage and loss that came out of our heroes. For this, I challenge each of us: let us assert our liberty day by day," Marcos said in his message released by Malacañang.

The President also urged Filipinos to pursue "excellence" and "integrity" in everything that they do and to "take ownership of the fight" that gave birth to the country's independence.

PBBM, hinamon ang mga Pilipino na panindigan ang kalayaan araw-araw, maging mahusay at may integridad | via RH14 @leth_narciso

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Marcos also reflected on the noble acts demonstrated by the nation's ancestors in defying foreign oppressors.

"The flag, national march, and proclamation in writing affirmed to them the victory that was brought forth by battles won and sacrifices made, which gave the might Filipinos the guidance and confidence to move forward united," he said.

The President also mentioned that Filipinos have established that it is at their core to "defend what is ours" as they remained defiant despite new oppressors and challenges appearing.

Marcos and First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos led the celebration of the 125th Independence Day at Luneta Park on rainy Monday morning.

Pangulong Bongbong Marcos: Sa Araw ng Kalayaan, isang napakalaking karangalan ang tumayo bilang kinatawan ng sambayanan at manguna sa pagkilala at pagsariwa sa katapangan at paninindigan ng mga bayani. #DamdamingBayanhttps://t.co/DlUV9d5wkj pic.twitter.com/NdHonDiZwO

— DZRH NEWS (@dzrhnews) June 12, 2023