Manila, June 12 -- Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez on Thursday led the House of Representatives in commemorating the 127th anniversary of Philippine Independence, calling on Filipinos to honor the country's heroes by protecting democracy, promoting inclusive development, and uniting behind President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s "Bagong Pilipinas" vision.

"Independence Day is not only a remembrance of our past. It is a call to strengthen our present and secure our future. It reminds us that freedom must be protected, nurtured, and used to uplift the lives of every Filipino," Romualdez said in his message.

The leader of the House of Representatives paid tribute to the sacrifices of Filipino heroes who, more than a century ago, fought agai...