Senators mark PH Independence Day with calls to protect freedom

Senate President Pro Tempore Sherwin Gatchalian on Thursday said the Senate remains committed to serving the Filipino people despite political noise and challenges as the nation marks the 128th anniversary of Philippine Independence.

In his Independence Day message, Gatchalian honored the courage, sacrifices, and heroism of Filipinos who fought for the country's freedom from foreign rule.

“The Senate joins the entire country in honoring the courage, sacrifices, and heroism of our ancestors who fought tirelessly to break the chains of foreign oppression,” he said.

Gatchalian said the spirit of independence calls on public officials to rise above political divisions and remain focused on public service.

“Today, amid the noise of politics and the challenges that test our institutions, the true spirit of independence calls on us to rise above division and remain anchored on what truly matters: service to the Filipino people. The work of the legislature must continue,” he said.

The acting Senate president also stressed that genuine freedom cannot be fully realized while millions of Filipinos continue to struggle with poverty.

“Hindi lubos na magkakaroon ng kalayaan ang bansa kung milyun-milyon sa ating mga kababayan ang nananatiling nahahadlangan ng kahirapan,” Gatchalian said.

He added that the Senate would continue advancing measures aimed at helping Filipinos achieve a better quality of life through access to quality education, healthcare, and dignified livelihood opportunities.

Other senators likewise used the occasion to reflect on the continuing responsibilities that come with freedom.

Senator Francis Pangilinan said Filipinos commemorate Independence Day with weary bodies but hopeful hearts, citing the challenges posed by natural disasters, foreign incursions, and corruption.

“Pagod dahil ang ating lupang hinirang, patuloy na niyayanig ng kalamidad. Ang ating perlas ng silangan, patuloy na ginigipit ng mga dayuhang barko at ng mga korap na lingkod-bayan,” Pangilinan said.

Despite these difficulties, he said Filipinos continue to persevere and remain hopeful.

“Pero ang bayan kong magiliw, umaasa, umaawit, at nagsisikap pa rin,” he added.

Pangilinan also emphasized that the country's freedom was won through the sacrifices of past generations and must now be upheld through the hard work and contributions of today's citizens.

Meanwhile, Senator Francis Escudero said freedom is not merely a remembrance of past struggles but a responsibility that must be protected every day.

“Ang kalayaan ay hindi lamang alaala ng nakaraang ipinaglaban, kundi tungkuling araw-araw na nararapat pangalagaan,” Escudero said.

He said patriotism is demonstrated through honest public service, sound decision-making, and standing up for what is right, adding that the observance of Independence Day serves as a reminder that love of country extends beyond celebration.

“Bagkus, ito ay responsibilidad na dapat nating isabuhay at patuloy na ipaglalaban para sa susunod na mga henerasyon,” he said.

The three senators ended their messages by honoring the sacrifices of the nation's forebears and calling on Filipinos to continue safeguarding the freedoms won 128 years ago.