Members of the diplomatic corps, including Chinese Ambassador to the Philippines Liu Jianchao, greeted President Aquino in Malacanang on the occasion of the 113th anniversary of the Philippine Independence.
Also present during the traditional Vin d’honneur were former President Fidel Ramos, Ilocos Norte Rep. Imelda Marcos, other members of Congress, Cabinet members, and businessmen.
The military was represented by AFP Chief of Staff Eduardo Oban Jr. and service commanders of the military such as Lt. Gen. Oscar Rabena, commanding general of the Philippine Air Force. The PNP was represented by Chief PNP Raul Bacalzo.
President Aquino offered a toast to heroes past who fought for freedom and democracy. "Allow me then to raise my glass to freedom, to our heroes, and, most of all, to all the heroes we hope will continue to be etched in our national memory, there for the coming generations of Filipinos to honor: To what our soldiers fought for; To what our martyrs died for; And to what we, as a nation, aspire to perfect-the fulfillment of the greatest promises of democracy.”
Aquino also paid tribute to his parents, adding he is committed to continue what they have started. "My father once said that the Filipino is worth dying for. My mother articulated it again after she won back our democracy: The Filipino is worth living for. I have now committed my life to showing the world the truth that both my parents proclaimed.”
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