Honoring the Heroes of Yesteryears and Current Times at the Mactan Shrine in Lapu-Lapu City
On National Heroes Day, 25th August 2025, Lapu-Lapu City hosted a commemorative event at the Mactan Shrine in Barangay Mactan. The event, attended by city officials, government workers, and constituents, was marked by speeches emphasising the enduring value of bayanihan (community spirit) and the importance of modern heroism.
Mayor Ma. Cynthia "Cindi" King-Chan led the morning rites, followed by an address from Vice Mayor Celedonio Sitoy. Sitoy paid tribute to the city's living heroes, such as street sweepers, garbage collectors, frontliners, law enforcers, and educators, stating that their daily labour sustains the community and shapes the nation's future.
In his speech, Sitoy highlighted the unity, courage, and enduring spirit of Filipino heroes, both celebrated and unsung, as encapsulated in the event's theme, "Isang Diwa, Isang Lahi, Isang Bayanihan."
Lone District Representative Junard "Ahong" Chan, in his opening address, called for unity and shared responsibility in confronting the nation's challenges. He emphasised that Filipino heroes come from various backgrounds and that every day, modern-day heroes are witnessed in our midst who choose to serve selflessly.
Chan cited the city's collective response to Typhoon Odette and the Covid-19 pandemic as proof of the community's enduring spirit of bayanihan. He also highlighted the enduring relevance of bayanihan as a cultural value, stating that unity of heart, vision, and spirit empowers heroes and could guide collective action today.
President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. spoke in his 2025 National Heroes Day lecture about the importance of modern heroism in fighting poverty, corruption, discrimination, and environmental pollution. He emphasised that the spirit of bayanihan is crucial in overcoming these challenges.
The event concluded with the laying of wreaths in honour of the heroes. Representative Chan honoured modern-day heroes, including healthcare workers, teachers, overseas Filipino workers, police officers, soldiers, and ordinary citizens, for their selfless service and contributions to the nation.
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