As we celebrate the 113th Philippine Independence Day with reverence, let us remember that the freedom we are privileged to have today did not come without a cost. More than a hundred years ago, sacrifices were made and blood was shed by Filipino patriots, heroes and martyrs who served and fought valiantly for a cause that was worth dying for.
Today, we face a different battle –and need to fight for another cause. Although blood need not be shed this time, our fight against poverty to achieve economic progress will also need unselfish service and sacrifice from each and every Filipino.
As we move forward in our quest, we thank our overseas Filipinos for being an inspiration of selflessness and dedication. You have given much of yourselves and toiled hard to uplift the lives of your families back home.
We salute you for tirelessly working to ensure a brighter future for your loved ones, and at the same time contribute to our nation’s growth.
The Department of Trade and Industry believes that overseas Filipinos will play a major role in nation building and economic progress. More than generating foreign exchange thru your remittances, you can become entrepreneurs in the future, and in the process also generate jobs and livelihood opportunities.
Let us all be proud of what this day represents and remember our patriots, heroes and martyrs who gave up their lives so that we may be free. May we all continue to aspire for a better life, work hard to attain economic empowerment, and strive to create opportunities not only for ourselves but for the rest of the Filipino nation as well.
Happy Independence Day at Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!
