President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. led the commemoration of the 108th birth anniversary of his father, the late President Ferdinand E. Marcos Sr., with a call for Filipinos to embrace lives of service, sacrifice, and national dignity—values he described as the cornerstone of his father’s legacy.

Speaking during a wreath-laying ceremony at the Marcos Monument in Batac City, the President reflected on the elder Marcos’s leadership, which he said was rooted in devotion to the nation and selflessness.

“It is a legacy of service. It is a legacy of sacrifice,”** Marcos Jr. declared. “If you are going to be a good Filipino, then you must be willing to sacrifice everything, including your life, for the Filipino, for the Philippines.”

He emphasized that honoring his father should go beyond ceremonial tributes and be reflected in everyday acts of commitment to the country. “We are only worthy of that legacy if we live a life of service, if we live a life of commitment, if we live a life of sacrifice for our people,” he added.

The President also underscored the importance of defending Filipino dignity, asserting that no foreign power or individual should be allowed to demean the Filipino people. “We must always fight for the dignity of every Filipino and for the dignity of our country,” he said.

He recalled a personal lesson from his father: the importance of forging one’s own path. “If you want to bring a better life to Filipinos, you must find your own path,” he quoted.

The Marcos Day celebration began with a Thanksgiving Mass at the Immaculate Conception Parish, followed by the wreath-laying ceremony. The President also distributed medical equipment to local government units, witnessed a culinary showcase of Ilocano vegetable dishes, and received a floral crown and traditional Ilokano serenade.

The event served not only as a tribute to a former president but also as a reminder of the enduring call to public service and national pride. (PNA)