President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. delivered a solemn message of peace on Wednesday, reminding Filipinos that war cannot be solved by more violence. His remarks came during the country’s 83rd Araw ng Kagitingan (Day of Valor) commemoration at the Dambana ng Kagitingan, Mount Samat National Shrine.
Marcos told attendees that peace, not war, is the only true solution to conflict. He emphasized that sustainable peace must be an honorable agreement forged by all parties involved, not imposed by one nation or individual.
Day of Valor calls for unity and remembrance
The President said Filipinos now live in peace because of the sacrifices made by those who fought in World War II. He reflected on the painful experiences of war and said they offer critical lessons. One of those lessons, he added, is that lasting peace comes only when all voices are heard in its pursuit.
He explained that peace cannot be achieved by a single leader or nation. True reconciliation, he said, is possible only when all parties work together. Marcos also expressed regret that many nations have yet to embrace this principle and said he remains hopeful that peace will eventually reach all corners of the world.
As part of the event, Marcos led a wreath-laying ceremony at the shrine and toured the newly renovated Mt. Samat National Shrine Underground Museum. The P19-million project includes a curated exhibit highlighting Bataan’s pivotal role during World War II. It honors the courage of both Filipino and American soldiers who defended the province, as well as local heroes whose stories have long gone untold.
Marcos calls for citizen action to honor Filipino heroes
In his speech, Marcos urged citizens to emulate the bravery and selflessness of those who defended Bataan in 1942. He said today’s generation should fight not with weapons, but by advancing causes that uplift the lives of fellow Filipinos.
Earlier, Marcos declared April 9 a regular holiday in observance of the Day of Valor. The occasion commemorates the Fall of Bataan during World War II, a turning point in Philippine history that marked both loss and resistance.
As the country remembered the past, Marcos called on Filipinos to keep the spirit of their heroes alive—not through conflict, but by building a just and peaceful nation.
Jaja has a degree in journalism and took classes in international law and business communication. Her career spans roles at prominent international media outlets, including International Business Times, Celebeat and Delightful Philippines. As a news editor, Jaja covered a wide range of beats, including legal, business, economy, cryptocurrency, personal finance, gaming, technology, and entertainment.