President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. joined the public on Monday, August 21, in commemorating the 40th death anniversary of late former Senator Benigno 'Ninoy' Aquino Jr.
In his message on Ninoy Aquino Day, the Chief Executive urged Filipinos to 'transcend political barriers'.
"In our purposive quest for a more united and prosperous Philippines, let us transcend political barriers that hamper us from securing the comprehensive welfare and advancement of our beloved people," Marcos said.
"Together, let us develop a Philippines grounded in reason and fortitude, where the boundaries of our personal biases fade and the welfare of all become our priority," he stressed.
On August 21, 1983, the late former Senator passed away after he was shot at the tarmac of the Manila International Airport, now called the Ninoy Aquino International Airport.
The assasination happened after Aquino, a known critic of then President Ferdinand Marcos Sr., returned to the Philippines from his three years of self-exile in the United States
Marcos Jr. said that Aquino became 'an example of relentlessness and resolve for many Filipinos' by standing for his beliefs and fighting for battles he deemed right.
"When our love for the nation becomes the compass that guides our words and actions, we foster an environment where empathy, compassion, and dialogue prevail, leading us to a more enlightened and harmonious society," he said.
"Let us allow this compelling force to promote collaboration, celebrate diversity, and create a society that is teeming with vitality and inspiration," the Chief Executive added.
Republic Act 9256 declared August 21 as a special non-working holiday in observance of the Ninoy Aquino Day.
