(Photo courtesy: Philippine News Agency)

MANILA, (PIA) -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Monday, April 10, honored the heroes of World War II (WWII), and urged Filipinos to imbibe positivism by trusting that tomorrow will bring good vibes amid life's daily challenges.

“We are here to once again remember the heroism, valor, and sacrifice of the countless heroes who—with every ounce of their being and often with their passing—have made this hallowed ground,” said Pres. Marcos in his speech commemorating the 81st “Araw ng Kagitingan” or Day of Valor at the Mount Samat National Shrine in Pilar, Bataan.

He said Filipinos have once again shown the ability to face overwhelming odds, but never losing hope.

“Many dismiss the commemoration of the Bataan Siege as ill-advised simply because it had ended in the most agonizing defeat. We lost great men and women during that time, ending with the Death March,” Marcos said.

“Our most important triumph, though, was that we kept on fighting and that we never lost hope. For although we lost the battle, the Fall of Bataan marked the beginning of the Filipinos’ resurgence as a fighting force to defend and to take back the land of their forefathers,” he added.

The President also expressed his heartfelt gratitude to all the Filipino heroes who "fought and died" in Bataan, adding that they "exhibited" how to be the best citizens of the Republic.

Heroism, Marcos said, can be seen in war veterans who were willing to give up their lives in order to give hope to future generations of Filipinos.

He also said that while every Filipino labors and makes sacrifices everyday to feed their families, help their communities and serve their country, he added that these undertakings should be celebrated to keep the spirit of patriotism alive.

It can be recalled that last year, Marcos signed Proclamation No. 90, s. 2022, moving the celebration of the Araw ng Kagitingan to April 10. (PIA-NCR)