Amid the continuing pandemic, Covid-19 front liners were feted by Secretary Carlito Galvez Jr. on National Heroes’ Day.
“One common trait that made our national heroes extraordinary was their sense of purpose and their willingness to set aside their personal interests and [to] dedicate their lives to free our country from the bondage of foreign invaders,” Galvez said Monday.
But as the Philippines has already achieved freedom from past colonial masters, Galvez said that the country continues to have a steady stream of new heroes.
“What has been remarkable during this health crisis is the rise of a new breed of heroes who are demonstrating that selflessness, dedication, and commitment will be the key to overcoming the difficulties caused by the pandemic,” he added.
Galvez heads the Office of the Presidential Adviser on Peace, Reconciliation and Unity.
He noted that the doctors, nurses, soldiers, police officers, barangay health workers, fast food service crew, riders, factory workers, and local government officials have been braving the frontlines to ensure the health, safety and security of Filipinos.
“As we commemorate National Heroes’ Day, let us also pay tribute to these outstanding professionals who have, day in and day out, been risking their lives so that they can serve their fellow Filipinos,” he said.
Galvez likewise honored the peace advocates and workers who are at the forefront of efforts to push forward and sustain the gains of the comprehensive Philippine peace process.
They, too, are among the country’s unsung heroes, he added.