One-hundred and twenty-two years after the country won its independence, President Duterte yesterday called for a “united battle” this time to overcome the coronavirus pandemic.
In a message to mark the Independence Day celebration, the President urged the nation to emulate the courage of the country’s forefathers in fighting the viral outbreak.
“As we wage united battle against COVID-19, we now have the opportunity to demonstrate that we possess the same gallantry of spirit and the nobility of character as the heroes of our past,” Duterte said. “Let us now move forward with courage, hope, and optimism as we overcome this pandemic,” he added.
The President’s call for unity and optimism came as the country had 24, 175 coronavirus cases with 1,036 deaths and 5,165 recoveries as of June 11.
The President was unable to physically attend the Independence Day ceremony at Rizal Park in Manila amid the limitations on large gatherings during the coronavirus lockdown. Duterte was instead represented by Executive Secretary Salvador Medialdea during the simple flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony aired on state television.
The President’s video message was played on a large television screen mounted at the venue.
The government task force on the coronavirus had earlier ruled that only 10 people may attend the Independence Day ceremony at Rizal Park. The Palace earlier said the President’s presence at the Independence Day celebration might attract large crowds and break the safe distancing rule.
In his video message, the President paid tribute to the country’s forefathers for winning the nation’s liberty from foreign rule.
“I join all Filipinos in celebrating the 122nd anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine independence,” the President said. “One-hundred and twenty-two years ago, our forefathers proudly proclaimed the birth of the Filipino nation. Today, we honor them for their bravery, heroism, and sacrifice, as well as we thank them for the gifts of democracy and freedom,” he said.
This year’s Independence Day celebration had the theme “Kalayaan 2020: Tungo sa Bansang Malaya, Nagbabayanihan, at Ligtas (Kalayaan 2020: Towards a Free, United, and Safe Nation).
The Independence Day commemoration showed gratitude not only to the country’s forefathers but also the brave frontliners who keep the nation safe and healthy during the pandemic.
The Rizal Park ceremony was different compared to previous celebrations due to the small number of people attending the event in compliance with the restrictions on large gatherings and the physical distancing.
Manila Mayor Isko Moreno and Philippine Navy flag-officer-in-command Admiral Giovanni Carlo Bacordo, Philippine Medical Association president Dr. Jose Santiago Jr., National Historical Commission of the Philippines chair Rene Escalante, and Navy Capt. Gregory Gerald Fabic also attended the ceremony at the monument of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. (Genalyn Kabiling)
