MANILA, Philippines — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to protect truth from distortion and help strengthen national unity as the country marked the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence on Friday.
In his Independence Day message, Marcos said the challenges facing the nation today differ from those confronted by the country’s heroes during the struggle against colonial rule. He urged Filipinos to respond to issues such as misinformation, technological change, and declining public trust.
“While our forebears fought colonial oppression through revolution, reform, and intellectual resistance, we face challenges of a different kind today,” Marcos said.
The President said Filipinos must protect truth from distortion, use technology responsibly, and work to rebuild trust amid growing division and distrust. He added that the country’s response to these challenges would influence its future and the legacy left to the next generation.
Marcos led the Independence Day flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at Rizal Park in Manila, accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and their sons. This year’s celebration carried the theme “Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan” (Freedom, Future, History).
The President said that although the country no longer faces colonial oppression, safeguarding freedom remains a shared responsibility. He emphasized that freedom is not only a legacy inherited from previous generations but also a duty that citizens must continue to uphold.
Marcos also honored national heroes and generations of Filipinos whose sacrifices contributed to the country’s independence and development. He said their example should inspire active citizenship, good governance, and national solidarity.
He concluded his message by extending Independence Day greetings to the Filipino people.
