The Armed Forces of the Philippines marked National Heroes' Day on August 31 with a solemn wreath-laying ceremony at the Libingan ng mga Bayani in Taguig City, as President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr., in his capacity as Commander-in-Chief, led tributes honoring Filipinos who gave their lives in service to the nation.
Wreath Offered at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier
AFP Vice Chief of Staff Lieutenant General Rommel P. Roldan PAF accompanied President Marcos Jr. during the ceremony and offered a wreath at the Tomb of the Unknown Soldier, according to a statement released by the AFP Public Affairs Office.
The ceremony, held at Camp Aguinaldo in Quezon City and at the Libingan ng mga Bayani, served as the military's formal observance of the national holiday dedicated to recognizing the sacrifices of Filipino heroes across generations.
Marcos Calls on Filipinos to Uphold Heroic Values
In his address, President Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to uphold the values exemplified by the nation's heroes — particularly courage, patriotism, selflessness, and dedication to public service, the AFP said.
The President also underscored the continuing contributions of modern-day heroes who serve and protect their communities and the country, drawing a line of continuity between historical figures and those currently in uniform or in public service.
AFP Reaffirms Constitutional Mandate
In a statement posted by the AFP Public Affairs Office, the military reaffirmed its mandate to protect the Filipino people, defend the nation's territory and sovereignty, and safeguard national interests.
"The AFP joins the nation in honoring the enduring legacy of Filipino heroes by upholding the same spirit of courage, selfless service, and patriotism," the statement read, adding that the institution remains "steadfast" under the leadership of the Commander-in-Chief.
Why This Matters
National Heroes' Day serves as an annual occasion for the Philippine military to publicly reaffirm its constitutional obligations to the state and the Filipino people. The AFP's participation, led by its Vice Chief of Staff alongside the Commander-in-Chief, underscores the institutional significance the military places on honoring sacrifice as foundational to its continuing mission. President Marcos Jr.'s call to uphold heroic values signals an expectation that both uniformed and civilian public servants carry forward the legacy of those commemorated at the Libingan ng mga Bayani.
Photo credit: Photo by Cpl Luna PA / PAOAFP