Remembering Heroes: Vice President Sara Duterte Calls to Defend Freedom
On June 12, during the Philippines’ 127th Independence Day celebration, Vice President Sara Duterte reflected on the sacrifices made by the country’s heroes. She urged Filipinos to continue to defend freedom, a precious legacy earned through struggle against oppressors and colonizers. The Vice President emphasized the importance of vigilance in protecting the nation’s hard-won liberty.
“Ang Araw ng Kalayaan ay pagkakataon hindi lamang upang ipagdiwang ang ating kalayaan kundi upang paalalahanan din tayo sa ating tungkulin na bantayan, pangalagaan at ipagtanggol ito sa lahat ng panahon,” she said, reminding the public that Independence Day is both a celebration and a call to responsibility.
Challenges Threatening Our Freedom
Vice President Duterte highlighted ongoing issues that endanger the country’s democracy. She cited government abuse and corruption, widespread drug problems, educational gaps, poverty, and hunger as major challenges facing Filipinos today. These obstacles, she warned, threaten to undermine the freedoms that many have fought so hard to achieve.
“Kabilang sa mga hamon sa ating kalayaan ay ang pagmamalabis at katiwalian sa gobyerno, laganap na droga, problema sa edukasyon, kahirapan at gutom,” she added, underscoring the gravity of these problems.
Defending Freedom Against Oppression
The Vice President reminded Filipinos that freedom was not won for people to be oppressed again or to have their rights stripped away. She urged citizens not to surrender their liberty to those who lack compassion and care for the nation.
“Huwag nating isuko ang kalayaang ito sa mga taksil at walang malasakit sa ating mamamayan at sa ating bayan,” Duterte emphasized, calling for unity and vigilance against betrayal.
She also pointed out that accepting injustice and ignoring the plight of the poor dishonors the memory of the nation’s heroes. Upholding rights and laws is essential to truly respect those who fought for freedom.
Vice President’s Presence Abroad Amid Impeachment Trial
Vice President Duterte marked Independence Day abroad, celebrating in Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia. She is currently facing an impeachment trial and has also taken a personal family trip to Malaysia. It remains unclear when she will return as she awaits summons from the Senate impeachment court.
For more news and updates on Philippine Independence Day, visit Filipinokami.com.