As our nation proudly marks its 126th Independence Day under the theme “ Kalayaan, Kinabukasan, Kasaysayan,” it is crucial to not only honor the sacrifices of our forefathers who valiantly fought for our freedom but also to recognize the unyielding spirit of the Filipino people in the ongoing battle for true independence that transcends the boundaries of foreign rule.
Independence is not merely the absence of foreign rule but a continuous struggle towards self-improvement, equality, and national progress driven by a deep sense of nationalism and patriotism. Our heroes did not just fight for our physical liberation; they envisioned a Philippine society where all Filipinos could thrive equally, guided by the principles of Liberty, Equality, and Fraternity. Today, however, the most actual battle for independence lies within ourselves – a war against our selfish desires and a call to become better and active citizens who prioritize the collective good over personal gain.
Filipinos should draw inspiration from the selfless service of our Filipino heroes who dedicated their lives to serving the greater good, especially the most marginalized and impoverished members of our society. Their sacrifices remind us that true independence is not achieved through individualism or self-serving actions but through a collective effort to uplift the lives of all Filipinos.
However, while our nation commemorates our 126th year of Philippine independence, we must address the obstacles afflicting our country. Currently, we are engaged in a complex internal struggle – combating the deterioration of our society, the widespread corruption among traditional politicians, the harmful influence of media organizations that degrade public morals and culture, and the increasing economic and socio-moral disparities that jeopardize our national unity. Corruption and self-interest among our leaders undermine the core values of independence and democracy that Filipino heroes such as Dr. Jose Rizal and Andres Bonifacio fought for. The spread of misinformation and partial media sources worsens societal rifts and weakens the foundation of our national solidarity. Simultaneously, economic gaps and social injustices endure, deepening the divide between the privileged minority and the disadvantaged majority.
Amidst the myriad of challenges we face, the 2025 midterm elections loom as a decisive moment for our nation. It is a time for every Filipino to exercise their right to vote and to make a deliberate choice for real change. We must not forget the lessons of our heroes and resist the allure of voting for personal gain. Instead, we must vote for leaders who embody the values of selflessness, integrity, and a genuine commitment to the common good.
As we reflect on the significance of Philippine Independence Day, let us rekindle our commitment to the ideals of freedom, equality, and justice that our heroes championed. Let us strive to mirror their selflessness and unwavering dedication to the common good, and work towards constructing a nation where every Filipino can relish the benefits of independence and progress. The battle for true independence is far from over, but by standing together in solidarity and upholding the values of integrity, empathy, and unity, we can surmount the challenges that lie ahead and forge a more promising future for our beloved country. Today’s Independence Day, let us not only commemorate our past triumphs but also recommit ourselves to the ongoing struggle for a truly free, just, and prosperous Philippines.
Mabuhay ang Kalayaan! Mabuhay ang Bansang Pilipinas! Mabuhay and Filipino!!
