I greet with great pride and joy the entire Filipino nation, including our kababayans overseas, as we commemorate the 118th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence. More than a hundred years ago, Filipinos laid down their lives for the sovereign Philippines of the present. It was a long and bloody struggle as our forebears, through their words and deeds, fought against those who suppressed our freedom and violated our rights. Our heroes emerged triumphant because of their solidarity, courage, and passion; they broke the shackles of abuse, inequality, and violence that one terrorized our people, so that we may all enjoy the liberty, dignity, and hope we possess today. This occasion coincides with our nation's celebration of another victory: Our journey on the Daang Matuwid has allowed us to reap the gains of reform. Six years have passed and we are well on our way towards resurgence: I call on all of you to engage deeper in nation-building, remain steadfast on the path of morality and justice, and always protect the weak and marginalized, as we transition to the next chapter of our country's narrative. Again, may we all have a happy and meaningful Philippine Independence Day.
