Vice President Sara Duterte, in a strong Independence Day message on Thursday, urged Filipinos to protect their hard-earned freedom from those she called “traitors” and individuals indifferent to the country’s welfare.
In a video address commemorating the 127th Philippine Independence Day, Duterte said, “We did not gain our freedom just to lose our rights again or be enslaved by a few. We proudly showcase our freedom to the world—let’s not hand it over to traitors and those who lack concern for our people and our nation.”
Speaking from Malaysia, where she is currently on a personal trip with her family, Duterte highlighted that the liberties Filipinos enjoy today were made possible through the sacrifices of national heroes.
She also warned against what she called a “culture of slavery,” stating that it dishonors the legacy of Filipino heroes. “Turning a blind eye to the struggles of many Filipino families, and trampling on rights and laws, are insults to our freedom,” Duterte said.
According to the Office of the Vice President, she is scheduled to attend the Independence Day celebration and meet with overseas Filipino workers in Malaysia later in the day.