MANILA, Philippines — As the nation marks the 128th anniversary of the declaration of Philippine Independence on Friday, several senators said the freedom won by the country’s heroes must be reflected in better lives for Filipinos through stronger institutions, greater opportunities, and responsive governance.
Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian said true freedom remains incomplete when millions of Filipinos continue to struggle with poverty.
“The country’s freedom cannot be fully realized if millions of our fellow Filipinos continue to be held back by poverty,” Gatchalian said in a statement.
“Today, amid the noise of politics and the challenges that test our institutions, the true spirit of independence calls on us to rise above division and remain anchored on what truly matters: service to the Filipino people. The work of the legislature must continue,” he added.
Freedom
Sen. Risa Hontiveros likewise stressed that freedom is incomplete if Filipinos continue to suffer.
“Every Filipino has the right to a government that listens, is dependable, acts swiftly, and does not forget those most in need,” she said.
Senators Loren Legarda and Francis Escudero, meanwhile, echoed the call and said that freedom must be upheld through strong institutions and responsible governance, emphasizing that independence is “a duty that must be protected and upheld every day.”
Sen. Jinggoy Estrada, who remains detained over plunder charges, highlighted the need to protect democratic institutions from outside influence and interference.
In a statement posted on social media, Estrada said that “ang tunay na kalayaan ay hindi lamang ipinagdiriwang—ito ay ipinagtatanggol” (“true freedom is not only celebrated—it is defended”).
Unity, patriotism
Several senators in their own statements also emphasized the importance of unity and patriotism in addressing the country’s challenges.
Sen. JV Ejercito called on Filipinos to keep alive the values of patriotism and use their freedom to help build a stronger and more united nation.
Senators Bong Go and Vicente Sotto III encouraged citizens to value freedom through unity, compassion, and service to others.
Sen. Migz Zubiri said in Filipino that here is no true freedom without unity.
Opportunities, hope
Sen. Bam Aquino said Independence Day should serve as a reminder to create more opportunities for Filipinos through education, employment, and stronger democratic institutions.
Sen. Francis Pangilinan, meanwhile, acknowledged the challenges facing the country, including calamities, threats to sovereignty, and corruption, but said Filipinos remain hopeful despite these difficulties. /gsg
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