Department of National Defense (DND) officer-in-charge Undersecretary Jose Faustino Jr. on Monday called on Filipinos to become heroes for others — family, friends and strangers — as he recognized the sacrifices of so-called modern day heroes on National Heroes Day.

In a statement, Faustino expressed hope that Filipinos would follow the path of heroes who fought for the country’s independence, the frontliners against the coronavirus pandemic and overseas Filipino workers.

“On this day, too, we recognize the service and contribution of our modern-day heroes, such as our front line forces in the fight against the Covid-19 pandemic, our first responders in humanitarian assistance and disaster response, our overseas Filipino workers, and the everyday heroes in our lives. I enjoin our compatriots to become heroes for others, whenever we can to our family, friends and strangers,” he added.

“One of our heroes, Emilio Aguinaldo, said, ‘we cannot free ourselves unless we move forward united in a single desire’. Thus, during these times, we must show courage and strength in the face of challenges and remain united as we move forward in attaining peace and progress for our motherland.”

Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. said the day served to honor Filipino heroes who chose to fight for freedom until their last breath.

“Our nation may no longer be facing an armada of conquerors from foreign lands but our people have, for the past two years, been confronting major challenges brought about by the Covid-19 pandemic that has affected all aspects of our way of life,” Galvez said.

During the pandemic, the country saw the rise of a new breed of heroes who show that selflessness, dedication and commitment are key in overcoming the health crisis.

“These courageous men and women — doctors, nurses, soldiers, police officers, barangay health workers, fast food service crew, riders, factory workers, and local government officials – have been braving the frontlines to ensure the health, safety and security of their countrymen,” Galvez said.

He urged the public to pay tribute to those who have been risking their lives so that they can serve.

“Let us also not forget our peace builders, peace advocates and peace workers who are at the forefront of efforts to push forward and sustain the gains of the comprehensive Philippine peace process. They, too, are among our nation’s unsung heroes,” he added.

For his part, Philippine National Police chief Gen. Rodolfo Azurin Jr. said it is a significant day for the country’s history.

“As we celebrate this auspicious day, we do not only commemorate the glorious past but we also pay respect, with the highest esteem, to our many modern-day heroes – our frontliners who selflessly serve the community during this pandemic, our police officers who lost their lives in the war against illegal drugs and to all of us who have experienced various difficulties and surmounting challenges brought about by Covid-19,” he added. (PNA)