QUEZON CITY, Dec 1 (PIA) --As the country commemorated Monday the 157th birth anniversary of Andres Bonifacio, President Rodrigo Roa Duterte also recognized the heroism of the nation's frontliners against the coronavirus disease (COVID-19) who work tirelessly to protect the Filipino public.

"Today, as we honor great Filipino hero Andres Bonifacio, we also honor our heroic frontliners especially our healthcare workers and uniformed personnel," President Duterte said in a public address on government's response on COVID-19.

"They offered their lives selflessly in the service of our nation and people. Saludo ako sa inyo," he added.

In a video message earlier, President Duterte has urged Filipinos to relive the values that Bonifacio fought for more than a century ago, noting the revolutionary hero's legacy sparked the fires of a revolution that awakened national consciousness and served as the foundation of the Republic.

"His love of country --- which aroused our ancestors to fight for our freedom and secure our rightful place in the community of nations ---- is very vital now, more than ever, as we overcome the challenges of COVID -19 pandemic," he said.

"As we remember his life and deeds, may the values he fought for, inspire us all to become worthy heirs of the just, progressive, and inclusive society that he envisioned more than a century ago."

At the same time, the President encouraged Filipinos to come together in overcoming challenges so that the nation can secure a much better and brighter future for everyone.

Bonifacio was born to a poor family in Tondo, Manila, on Nov. 30, 1863. A humble and patriotic man, he saw the oppression his fellowmen endured under Spain's colonial rule.

He founded the Kataastaasan Kagalanggalang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan (KKK or Katipunan), a secret society, which spearheaded the uprising against Spanish colonizers and eventually laid the groundwork for a revolutionary government.

This year's commemorative program, led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), has for its theme: "Bonifacio 2020: Tapang at Kaligtasan Tungo sa Malayang Lipunan." PND