Vice President Sara Duterte emphasized the importance of protecting the freedom Filipinos hold as the nation celebrates Independence Day today, June 12.
In a video message, Duterte acknowledged the immense love and sacrifice shown by Filipino heroes in fighting for the country’s freedom.
"Sa kanilang mga sakripisyo at pagbubuwis ng buhay ay natamasa natin ang kalayaan at namuhay tayo bilang bansang isinusulong ang sariling adhikain, interes, o pangarap," the Vice President said.
According to her, Independence Day is not only an occasion to celebrate the freedom Filipinos enjoy but also a reminder to guard and defend it at all times. She emphasized that embracing a culture of oppression is a blasphemy to the memory of heroes.
"Paglapastangan sa alaala ng ating mga bayani ang pagyakap sa kultura ng pagkaalipin," she said.
"Paglapastangan sa diwa ng kalayaan ang pagsasawalang bahala sa paghihirap ng maraming pamilyang Pilipino at ang paglabag sa mga karapatan at sa batas," she added.
The Vice President then mentioned issues such as corruption in government, the prevalence of illegal drugs, problems in the education sector, poverty, and hunger — which she described as a travesty to the legacy of Filipino heroes.
"Hindi tayo lumaya para masadlak lamang sa pagdurusa ang ating bansa. Hindi tayo lumaya para muling mawalan ng karapatan at maging alipin ng iilan," Duterte said.
"Ipinagmalaki natin sa mundo ang kalayaan ng mga Pilipino," she added.
In conclusion, the Vice President reminded Filipinos not to surrender their freedom to those who are traitorous and indifferent to the citizens and the nation.
"Huwag nating isuko ang kalayaang ito sa mga taksil at walang malasakit sa ating mamamayan at sa ating bayan," she stressed.
"Patuloy nating ipagtanggol ang ating kalayaan at kinabukasan mula sa mga mapang-alipin," she added.
Duterte is currently in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia, on a personal trip with her family.
The Office of the Vice President earlier stated that Duterte is scheduled to attend the Independence Day celebration on June 12, where she is also set to hold a program consultation with Overseas Filipino Workers (OFWs).
