April 27, 2024 - President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. praised the Filipino people for their patriotism during his speech at the 503rd Commemoration of the Victory of Mactan on Saturday. The event took place at the Liberty Shrine in Barangay Mactan, Lapu-Lapu City.
President Marcos highlighted the collective effort of Filipinos to assert the sovereign rights of the Philippines in alignment with international law and order. He expressed his admiration for the vibrant patriotism among not only the Cebuanos but all Filipinos.
According to President Marcos, patriotism is evident in every Filipino through their valor and selfless participation in nation-building. He stated, “Ito ay nakikita sa pagmamahal natin sa ating kapwa, pag-aaruga sa mga napinsala, pagtulong sa mga nagdarahop, at pagtanggol sa mga inaapi,” which translates to “This is seen in our love for our fellowmen, caring for the injured, helping the poor, and defending the oppressed.”
He further added, “Ito ay nakikita sa matapang nating paggiit sa ating karapatan at sa pagtanggol kung ano ang atin ayon sa ilalim ng batas, sang-ayon sa pandaigdigang kaayusan, at sa mata ng ating Diyos,” meaning “This is seen in our brave assertion of our rights and in defending what is ours under the law, in accordance with the global order, and in the eyes of our God.”
As the guest of honor and keynote speaker of the event, President Marcos led the flag-raising ceremony and wreath-laying to honor the country’s first national hero, Datu Lapulapu. He also witnessed the reenactment of the Battle of Mactan and the performance of Lapu-Lapu Arnis de Abanico. The local government of Lapulapu City presented a miniature of the Lapulapu statue to the Chief Executive.
The victory of Lapulapu at Mactan on April 21, 1521, holds national significance as it inspired other Filipino heroes and thinkers of the 19th century. This inspiration helped fuel their revolutionary movement for the country’s independence from Spain. The commemoration serves as a reminder of the bravery and patriotism that continue to shape the nation.