Tanauan City, Batangas
July 23, 2024

“Sa araw na ito, inaalala at pinararangalan natin siya bilang ‘Dakilang Paralitiko’ na nag-alay [ng] kaniyang makabuluhang buhay para sa ating bayan… Isang siglo at dalawang dekada na ang lumipas mula nang huling masaksihan ng mundo ang kaniyang angking galing, ngunit walang-hanggan nating pararangalan ang kaniyang alaala sa paraang nararapat sa kaniya bilang isang tunay na bayaning Pilipino,” President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. remarked as he joined the nation in celebrating the 160th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini in a ceremony at the Mabini Shrine in Tanauan City, Batangas.

The President emphasized that despite his physical limitations due to polio, Apolinario Mabini did not let his condition hinder him from fighting for the country’s independence, citing that his remarkable achievements are still celebrated in various landmarks across the Province of Batangas, as well as in Metro Manila and other parts of the country which include bridges, buildings and significant locations that bear his name.

“Sa katunayan, sa loob mismo ng Malacañang, matayog na nakatayo ang kapita-pitagang Mabini Hall o Bulwagang Mabini na sumasalamin sa natatanging lugar ng bayaning tumulong sa paglatag ng pundasyon ng ating republika… Nararapat lamang na ipangalan ang istrakturang ito sa kaniya dahil dito rin matatagpuan ang mga kapwa ko manggagawa sa Tanggapan ng Pangulo ngayon na maihahambing ang galing, talino at pagka-makabayan kay Mabini,” he continued.

The Chief Executive also encouraged the Filipino youth to draw inspiration from the life and legacy of Apolinario Mabini, urging them further to strive for greatness and make a positive impact in the country. He expressed hopes for the younger generations to understand and appreciate the hero’s philosophical and social ideas that highlighted the power of individual change and self-determination.

“Sama-sama tayong magtulungan upang matiyak na ang mga mithiin ni Apolinario Mabini ay magpapatuloy sa Bagong Pilipinas — kung saan ang mga mamamayan ay may pagkakataong maging produktibong kasapi ng isang mas makatao at nagkakaisang lipunan,” the President concluded in his speech.

After the program, President Marcos Jr. visited the Museo ni Apolinario Mabini which showcases the hero’s childhood, struggles and contributions to Philippine history.

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