"Defending our territory is a responsibility shared by the entire nation", President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said as he led the observance of the National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City on Monday.

In his speech, Marcos emphasized that "the spirit of heroism lives on because every generation gives it a new face."

“The Philippine Coast Guard, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Bureau of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources are there—alongside our fishermen—at the forefront of protecting our rights, livelihoods, and national interests in the West Philippine Sea," he said.

"We will fight for our rights in a peaceful and lawful manner, consistent with our principles. But defending our territory is a responsibility shared by the entire nation," he added.

Marcos stressed that "it calls on each of us to understand our history, to know our rights, and to take part in protecting the national interests."

"We begin by educating the youth on where our maritime rights come from and why they matter. Across every platform available to us, we shall champion truth, counter disinformation, and encourage responsible discourse," he noted.

"Our fisherfolk, too, deserve our unconditional support. Their continued presence in our waters strengthens our connection to our maritime territory. Above all, we have a duty to uphold the integrity of our institutions—by demanding transparency, accountability, and a standard of service worthy of the Filipino people," the President added.

In his message, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro Jr. assured that the Department of National Defense and the Armed Forces of the Philippines stand with the nation in continuing the fight for freedom, peace, and the welfare of every Filipino.

"This is our sacred obligation—not only to our ancestors, but also to the generations yet to come," he said. Robina Asido/PHS