Libingan ng mga Bayani, Fort Bonifacio, Taguig City
26 August 2013

President Benigno S. Aquino III graced the National Heroes Day celebration at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City.

In his speech, the President challenged the Filipinos that instead of being contented on receiving assistance from others, they should do their utmost best to fulfil their duties to society. Relating these responsibilities in the abolition of the Priority Development Assistance Fund (PDAF), he imparted that the nation should take part in guarding the projects that are being funded.

Noting the heroism displayed by ordinary citizens and their predecessors, President Aquino likewise called on the rest of the Filipinos to live on and continue the legacy they have started. “Lahat naman po tayo, sa iba’t-ibang paraan, ay natulungan at nakinabang sa pagmamalasakit ng mga nauna sa atin. Kaya naman makatuwiran lang pong isiping panahon na para tayo naman ang magpatuloy sa kanilang sinimulan. Makilahok tayo, makiisa at makiambag sa pagsusulong ng ating kolektibong adhikain sa bansa,” he said.

Joining the Chief Executive during the event were Foreign Affairs Secretary Albert del Rosario, Defense Secretary Voltaire Gazmin, Health Secretary Enrique Ona, Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) Chief of Staff Gen. Emmanuel Bautista, Dean Guiseppe Pinto of the Diplomatic Corps and National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno.

*  *  *