House Speaker Faustino ‘Bojie’ Dy III on Thursday called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the courage and sacrifice of the country’s heroes, emphasizing that true bravery continues to be reflected in everyday acts of service and nation-building.

Dy made the call as the country marks the 84th Araw ng Kagitingan with the theme “Giting ng Bayani, Pamana sa Salinlahi,” which highlights the enduring legacy of courage, patriotism, and sacrifice of Filipino veterans, and aims to inspire the country’s current and future generations.

The Speaker said the observance is a reminder of the valor shown by Filipino soldiers who fought for freedom and the continuing responsibility of today’s generation to uphold and strengthen the nation.

“Ngayong Araw ng Kagitingan, ginugunita natin ang tapang, sakripisyo, at pagmamahal sa bayan na ipinakita ng ating mga bayani — lalo na ng mga sundalong Pilipino na lumaban para sa ating Kalayaan (Today, we commemorate the valor, sacrifice and love of country shown by our heroes – especially the Filipino soldiers who fought for our Freedom),” the Speaker said in a video message.

He stressed that the liberties enjoyed by Filipinos today were earned through sacrifice and must be protected through collective effort and commitment to the country.

Dy added that “their courage reminds us that the freedoms we enjoy today were not given freely — they were earned through sacrifice.”

The Speaker noted that heroism is not confined to moments of war but is also seen in the daily lives of Filipinos who serve others, help their communities, and work toward a better future.

“Ang tunay na kagitingan ay hindi lamang makikita sa gitna ng digmaan. Nakikita rin ito sa araw-araw na pagsisikap ng bawat Pilipino na maglingkod, tumulong sa kapwa, at magtayo ng mas maayos na kinabukasan para sa ating bansa (True valor is not only seen in the midst of war. It is also seen in the daily sacrifices made by every Filipino to serve and help fellowmen, and build a better future for the country),” he said.

Dy expressed hope that the example of the country’s heroes would continue to inspire unity, patriotism, and public service across generations.

“Nawa’y magsilbing inspirasyon ang kanilang halimbawa upang patuloy nating mahalin, ipagtanggol, at paglingkuran ang ating inang bayan (May their example serve as an inspiration for us to continue loving, defending and serving the motherland).” (PNA)