President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. Leads Nation in Honoring Everyday Heroes on National Heroes Day 2025

TAGUIG CITY — President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the country in commemorating National Heroes Day 2025 at the Libingan ng mga Bayani on Monday, August 25, calling on Filipinos to emulate the courage and integrity of the nation’s forebears. In his keynote address, the President emphasized that heroism is not confined to history books, but lives on in the daily sacrifices of ordinary citizens.

During the ceremony, President Marcos paid tribute to both known and unsung heroes, including Teresa Magbanua, the “Visayan Joan of Arc,” who left her teaching profession in 1898 to fight for independence. He urged Filipinos to confront corruption and abuse of power, warning that such acts rob future generations of their health, dreams, and dignity. “We must be discerning, expose deception, and stand for what is right—even when it is difficult,” he said.

The President’s message echoed the day’s theme, “Isang Diwa, Isang Lahi, Isang Bayanihan,” which highlights the collective spirit of patriotism and service. Marcos underscored that nation-building is a “constant and unrelenting endeavor,” and that modern-day heroes include farmers, teachers, health workers, and law enforcers who fulfill their duties in extraordinary ways.

Parallel activities across the country reinforced this message, with youth groups and civic organizations hosting forums, mural unveilings, and storytelling sessions to inspire a new generation of changemakers. These events connected historical narratives with present-day calls for transparency, equity, and national unity.

The ceremony concluded with the symbolic release of white flowers into a reflecting pool, representing remembrance and hope. President Marcos’ call to action transformed the annual observance into a rallying cry for a stronger, more just Bagong Pilipinas—built not only by leaders, but by every Filipino who chooses service over silence.