President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. on Monday called on Filipinos to “strive” to become heroes in their own right by taking part in building a great nation.

In his National Heroes Day message, Marcos said the occasion pays tribute to the countless men and women of extraordinary courage and valor who fought and sacrificed to establish and preserve the nation.

“We remember and honour each of them for the sacrifices they made in our behalf so that we may live in peace, security, and liberty as well as realize our full potential as Filipinos,” he said.

He also likened the heroism shown by “medical professionals, civil servants, uniformed personnel, and ordinary citizens who toil daily to keep the Filipino dream alive” to heroes of the past.

“Their deeds not only remind us of the nobility of our race, but also invite us to take part in the difficult but rewarding task of nation-building,” he added.

Marcos said he believed Filipinos are “destined [for] greatness” because they possess an “indomitable spirit” required to accomplish incredible feats so long as their will is manifested into action.

“As we celebrate this day dedicated to our nation’s heroes, let us strive to fulfill our own promise so that we may also be heroes in our own right and a source of pride and inspiration for the succeeding generation of Filipinos to emulate. Mabuhay ang ating mga bayani at ang nagkakaisang Iahing Pilipino (Long live our heroes and the united Filipino people)!” he said.

Marcos is currently leading the commemoration of the National Heroes Day at the Libingan ng mga Bayani within Fort Bonifacio in Taguig City.

This year’s commemoration bears the theme, “Kabayanihan Tungo sa Pagkakaisa at Pag-unlad (Heroism toward unity and progress).”

Former President Rodrigo Duterte declared National Heroes Day a regular holiday under Proclamation 1236.

Republic Act 9492, signed by former President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo, declares the last Monday of August as National Heroes Day in the Philippines.

It was initially celebrated on the 30th of November — the same day as the remembrance of the birth of revolutionary Gat Andres Bonifacio.

Bonifacio was the founder of Katipunan, a revolutionary group of Filipinos who bravely fought against the Spanish colonizers.

National Heroes Day also commemorates the Cry of Pugad Lawin that gave way to the revolution against the Spanish rule. (PNA)