President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. said that freedom is not inherited "but a right that we must protect every single day", as the nation marked the 127th anniversary of the proclamation of Philippine Independence.

In his speech at Quirino Grandstand on Thursday, Marcos recalled the time when the Philippine flag was first hoisted in Kawit, Cavite in 1898 after the sacrifices of heroes to secure freedom for the country.

"Let us honor this day not just by remembering the sacrifices of our forefathers. We must live with the same courage and love of country; for freedom is not just something that we inherit but a right that we must protect every single day", Marcos said in his speech.

Marcos said freedom is a "precious gift" that encouraged countless individuals "that is why we must value our heritage by striving for excellence in preserving our rights and freedoms ensuring that they are used solely for the improvement and protection of our citizenry".

"In the spirit of patriotism, let us honor our priceless freedom by building a country worthy of the sacrifices made by our heroes", Marcos added.

In a separate statement, Vice President Sara Duterte called on Filipinos to not surrender their freedom to traitors and those who do not care about the country.

Speaking in Malaysia, she called on the nation not to surrender its freedom to traitors and those who do not care about the country.

"Let us not surrender this freedom to traitors and those who have no regard for our people and our country. Let us continue to defend our freedom and future from oppressors", Duterte said.

"Independence Day is an opportunity not only to celebrate our freedom but also to remind us of our duty to guard, preserve and defend it at all times", Duterte added.

In a statement, Defense Secretary Gilberto Teodoro urged "all our compatriots to reflect on the fact that sovereignty and peace are conditions that must be proactively maintained and require collective and sustained efforts".

"This is a time for genuine unity, where Filipinos, regardless of personal circumstance, must contribute the unique gifts that God has given each one of us to a concerted effort to uphold our flag within our own country and to remember it wherever we may be", Teodoro added.

The national program, led by Marcos, began with a flag-raising ceremony at the Rizal National Monument in Manila and wreath-laying rites in honor of the nation’s heroes followed with float parades at the Quirino Grandstand in representation of the significant events in Philippine history. Marie Manalili/DMS