Manila, June 12 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the nation's heroes and work together in advancing the common good as the country commemorates the 128th Anniversary of the Proclamation of Philippine Independence on Friday.

In his message, the President paid tribute to the heroes who secured the country's liberty and to the countless Filipinos who devoted their lives to advancing the common good.

Marcos said the declaration of independence in Kawit, Cavite on June 12, 1898 marked a landmark chapter in Philippine history,

"It was the moment we formally asserted our right to govern ourselves and determine our own destiny. The years that followed tested our resolve as we built institutions...