Duterte: Defend democratic ideals

As the colors blue, red, white, and yellow are set to fly high and wave throughout the country today, President Duterte urged all Filipinos to defend the Philippines' democratic ideals and cherish its sovereignty as the country celebrates its 120th Independence Day.

In his Independence Day message, Duterte encouraged Filipinos to take inspiration from the ancestors' sacrifices and defend the country's democracy.

“Inspired by the sacrifices of those who have bravely stood before us, may we also find the courage to defend our cherished democratic ideals now and in the years to come,” he said.

Duterte also urged Filipinos to emulate the solidarity showcased more than a century ago, and help the government effect meaningful change in the country.

“May the solidarity and heroism exhibited by our ancestors fuel our desire to spur meaningful and lasting change in our communities as we collectively battle the social ills of corruption, illegal drugs and criminality that impede our progress as a nation,” he said.

“By cherishing the sovereignty that is borne out of the sweat and blood of our heroes, we stand firm and unwavering in our conviction to create a brighter and better future for all Filipinos - regardless of their status in life,” he added.

The President also recognized that the unity and patriotism of Filipinos have placed the Philippines on the map as a pioneer of democracy.

“Through the patriotic fervor shown by our forefathers, we have freed ourselves from colonial subjugation and proved to the world that we stand united as the pioneer of republican democracy in Asia,” he said.

Based on the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) website, the theme for the 120 th celebration of Independence Day is, "Kalayaan 2018: P ag ba bag ongIpin ag lab an, A lays a Ma saga nang Kinabuka san ".

The historic Aguinaldo shrine in Kawit, Cavite, is traditionally where the day starts for the celebration of the Philippine Independence Day.

Aside from the flag-raising at Aguinaldo’s house in Kawit, there will be flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at the Rizal National Monument, in Rizal Park, Manila; Museo Republikang 1899 in Malolos City, Bulacan; Bonifacio National Monument in Caloocan City; Museong Katipunan in San Juan City; Muse on gK a say say an gP an lip unanng Pi lip in as in Angeles City, Pampanga; and in Mausoleo de los Veteranos de la Revolucion in Manila North Cemetery.

There will be free LRT and MRT rides from 7 to 9 a.m. and 5 to 7 p.m. today.