MANILA, Philippines - Nanawagan si Pangulong Rodrigo Duterte sa publiko na maging bukal sa kanilang kalooban ang pagiging bayani para sa sariling bayan.

Ginawa ng Pangulo ang pahayag sa paggunita sa ika-120 taong death anniversary ni Dr. Jose Rizal kahapon ng umaga.

“As our nation undergoes a significant phase of social development and economic growth, a period of national unity that calls for cooperation, patience and sacrifice of our people is necessary,” wika ng Pangulo.

“Let us therefore emulate the traits of Rizal; let us be willing heroes -- pat­riotic, faithful, and loyal to our motherland,” dagdag pa ni Duterte.

Samantala, hindi rin nakalimutan ng Pangulo na ikumpara ang kanyang war on drugs sa mga naging paghihirap ni Rizal laban sa Spanish occupation.

Ayon kay Duterte, kasalukuyang kaaway natin ang iligal na droga at korapsyon na sumasakop sa puso at isipan ng publiko.

“As in his time, the country is still fighting for independence. But today, we are fighting for freedom from the bondage of poverty, crime, illegal drugs and corruption. Indeed, they are our present enemies; they are the modern invaders that subjugate our people’s hearts, minds and spirits,” giit pa ni President Rody.