The Department of National Defense joins the nation in commemorating the 159th Birth Anniversary of Andres Bonifacio.
A hero who rose from the masses, Bonifacio was a sterling example of grit and dedication to the cause of the country’s liberation. In the Katipunan Decalogue (Duties of the Sons of the People), Bonifacio penned, _”Ikintal sa puso ang pag-asa na malabis na kapurihan at kapalaran na kung ikamamatay na tao’y magbubuhat sa palilistas sa pagkaalipin ng bayan.”_ For him, the height of honor and happiness of a person is to make the ultimate sacrifice for the good and salvation of one’s country, Defense Officer in Charge Senior Undersecretary Jose Faustino, said.
More than a century since his death, the daring feats and unmatched patriotism of the Father of Katipunan continue to reverberate in our collective psyche. His works, his secret society, and the revolution that he ignited gave succeeding generations of Filipinos the inspiration and ardor to fight for a nation that is free from the shackles of ages past.
Today, we honor and emulate Bonifacio’s heroism amid the tribulations and adversities we face as a people in this era, as encapsulated in this year’s theme _*”Bonifacio 2022: Kabayanihan at Pagtindig sa Makabagong Panahon.”*_ We may no longer be a country that grapples with the struggles we endured during the time of our great heroes, but our time presents new challenges that necessitate the same fervor, integrity, and excellence to defend and protect our nation’s peace and stability.
Let us continue to work together for the continued betterment of our nation. _Mahalin natin ang ating bayan, gaya ng pagmamahal na isinabuhay ni Gat Andres Bonifacio, DND Sec Faustino added. (VICTOR BALDEMOR RUIZ)
