Cayetano-bloc senators call for heritage protection on 128th PH Independence Day

Senators from the Cayteno-bloc on Friday marked the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence by emphasizing that freedom carries responsibilities that extend beyond defending sovereignty.

The bloc, led by Senator Alan Peter Cayetano, said these responsibilities include strengthening institutions, preserving national heritage, responding to disasters, and preparing citizens to serve the country in times of need.

Senator Robin Padilla renewed his call for the immediate passage of Senate Bill No. 617, or the proposed ROTC Act, saying the recent earthquake that devastated parts of Mindanao highlighted the importance of cultivating a disciplined and well-trained citizenry capable of assisting during emergencies.

The appeal came as authorities continued relief and rescue efforts following the 7.8-magnitude earthquake that struck parts of Mindanao, including General Santos City and nearby provinces.

Currently in Sarangani Province to assist affected communities, Padilla said the tragedy serves as a reminder that patriotism is demonstrated not only through the defense of national sovereignty but also through helping fellow Filipinos during times of crisis.

“Ang nangyaring lindol sa Mindanao ay paalala na ang pagmamahal sa bayan ay hindi lamang ipinapakita sa pagtatanggol ng ating soberanya kundi pati sa pagtulong sa ating mga kababayan sa oras ng sakuna at pangangailangan,” he said.

Padilla stressed that the Philippines remains vulnerable not only to traditional security threats but also to natural disasters such as earthquakes, typhoons, floods, and volcanic eruptions. He said a strengthened Reserve Officers’ Training Corps program would help equip young Filipinos with disaster-response, search-and-rescue, and first-aid skills that could save lives during emergencies.

Under Senate Bill No. 617, students in higher education and technical-vocational institutions would undergo mandatory Basic ROTC training aimed at developing patriotism, civic consciousness, disaster preparedness, and emergency response capabilities. The measure also contains safeguards against hazing and abuse, while providing benefits and incentives for participants.

Padilla described the proposal as a nation-building measure designed to prepare citizens for public service and humanitarian response.

“Kung nais nating parangalan ang mga bayani ng nakaraan, dapat nating ihanda ang susunod na henerasyon ng mga bayani ng ating panahon,” he said.

Meanwhile, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda said Independence Day is a reminder that freedom must be protected and practiced through responsible governance, strong institutions, environmental stewardship, and cultural preservation.

Citing this year's theme, “Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan.,” Legarda said freedom is not merely a historical achievement but a continuing duty.

“This year’s theme reminds us that freedom is a duty we must live every day,” she said.

Legarda emphasized the role of the Senate as a guardian of constitutional freedoms, stressing that lawmakers must carry out their responsibilities without fear, pressure, or personal interest.

“The Senate must remain an august chamber where issues are taken without fear, facts are pursued without hesitation, and decisions are made with the highest regard for the public good,” she said.

She added that independence is reflected in laws and policies that improve people's lives, citing measures she helped advance on environmental protection, climate action, support for small businesses, and access to higher education.

Legarda also underscored the importance of preserving the country's cultural heritage, saying a nation that understands and values its history is better equipped to protect its identity and unity.

“Independence is alive when our people see their heritage preserved. When we neglect our heritage, we make it easier for others to define us and divide us,” she said.

As Filipinos commemorated the nation's independence, both senators stressed that freedom comes with obligations to serve the country, strengthen institutions, assist communities in times of crisis, and safeguard the nation's future for succeeding generations.

-Paraluman News