WITH INDEPENDENCE, COMES RESPONSIBILITY-REVILLA

Senator Bong Revilla today appealed to the Filipino people, particularly the youth, to exercise responsibility and patriotism while enjoying the fruits of independence that the country has gained 111th years ago.

In his speech during the commemoration ceremonies of the declaration of the Philippine Independence in Kawit, Cavite, Revilla emphasized that while the country has already obtained its freedom from colonial forces, the struggle for reforms still remains.

He explained that the "greatest war" the country is facing at present is more internal than external and solution must come from within the citizens themselves. "Ang digmaan natin ay digmaan laban sa sarili, kaya ang solusyon ay dapat manggaling din sa atin at hindi kung saan o kung kanino man. We have always been seeking and advocating change but have been looking for it in the wrong places and directions. The most genuine of changes begin and happen in one's self that later rubs off to others forming a consensus of change evolving to a revolution that ushers in a new era. This is the revolution we need so we can usher in a better and greater Philippines," said Revilla.

The lawmaker reminded the youth that their ancestors fought and laid down their lives to achieve national liberation to benefit the next generations.

Revilla said most of the Filipino revolutionaries were youth when they struggled and sacrificed to attain independence from colonial rule. "In this spirit, I ask the youth of this generation, to be proud of our Filipino heritage, and follow in the footsteps of our heroes. Kayong mga kabataan, kayo ang manguna sa mga makabagong digmaan na ating hinaharap sa panahong ito. Ipagmalaki ninyo na kayo ay Pilipino. Sa halip na magduda sa sarili, taas-noo ninyong ibandila ang ating lahi," he requested. "And while change does not always lead to progress, there can never be progress without change. So let us all bring change and begin change in ourselves."

Revilla further pointed out that the problems of the present generation are nothing compared to what their ancestors had endured, but had put up with it. "Today, we reap what they planted. It is our turn to do our part and live up to what they expect us to be. It is our turn to do the fighting, not through guns and cannons, but through wisdom and maturity, aided by the heroisms of the past," he said.

The senator also urged everyone to preserve the shrines of national independence as a sign of respect and recognition of the Filipino revolutionaries' legacy. "As we derive inspiration from our heroes, let us give justice to their legacy. A fitting tribute would be the preservation of the Aguinaldo Shrine and the development of our centennial park. Pagtulong-tulungan nating pagandahin ang mga dambana ng ating kalayaan. Pagsikapan nating maitaguyod ang Philippine Independence Parks Commission para dito. Kasama kayo at ang National Historical Institute, maisasakatuparan natin ito," Revilla said.