Department of National Defense (DND) Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. on Monday urged Filipinos to defend the country’s independence, saying it is not the duty of just a few individuals.

“Ang paninindigan para sa ating kasarinlan ay tungkulin hindi lamang ng iilan, ngunit pananagutan ng bawat Pilipino (Standing up for our independence is not the duty of only a few, but of all Filipinos),” Teodoro said in his National Heroes’ Day message.

The defense chief also hoped that the patriotism and heroism inherent in every Filipino remain alive, as proven by the sacrifices made by overseas Filipino workers, health workers, fisherfolk, athletes, and teachers for the country and their families and communities.

He, likewise, urged Filipinos to remember the heroes who sacrificed a lot for the sake of the country’s freedom.

“Ating bigyang pugay ang mga sakripisyo at kadakilaang pinamalas ng mga bayani ng nakalipas sa pagtataguyod ng ating kasarinlan sa nararapat, marangal, at mapayapang pamamaraan; tungo sa isang Pilipinas na kailanma’y hindi pasisiil kaninuman (We must honor the sacrifices and greatness demonstrated by our past heroes who had upheld our sovereignty in just, proper and peaceful means, towards a Philippines that will not be oppressed),” Teodoro said.

Meanwhile, Philippine Army commander Lt. Gen. Antonio Nafarrete said the entire force is paying respects to all Filipino heroes who have laid down their lives in service to the nation.

He said this includes past and modern-day heroes who continue to inspire the country.

Nafarrete also said the real message of National Heroes’ Day is not just sacrificing lives but making right, just, and patriotic choices. (PNA)