to live, to love, to learn, to leave a legacy… and to laugh along the way
Six young men, all PMA graduates, all lieutenants, all Scout Rangers, all sons of general officers with four bearing their father’s first name—all fell under combat conditions while in noble service to the nation. They could have easily stayed on safer grounds; instead, they chose the difficult path. They chose to be Scout Rangers.
We were once upon a time grizzled warriors – fighting, bleeding, dying and surviving together through nameless battles – accomplishing remarkable feats, enduring heartbreaking losses, making silly mistakes and, as the Scout Ranger Song goes: “seeking and fighting and laughing and loving, Scout Rangers of fortune are we!”
S’ Willy was a shining example of what it means to lead with integrity, serve with diligence and hard work, and stand by those who stand by you. His impact on those who had the privilege of knowing him is immeasurable. This is a humble tribute to a man whose life was dedicated to the service of others. May his memory continue to inspire and guide us as we strive to uphold the values and virtues he so exemplified in his own life.
The aggression of China has already enflamed many a patriot’s heart. Already, many citizens are expressing willingness to handle the strengthening and expansion of communities and facilities in the inhabited parts of the Kalayaan Island. The Code of Conduct governing claimants of the concerned islands and reefs to which we are a signatory says that no one can occupy and build on uninhabited territory, but does not prohibit the same activity on already inhabited islands. We have communities in several of these islands, and we should pour our resources, and our patriotism, on them.
Since the end of the Second World War, China has been redrawing its maps, redefining borders, manufacturing historical evidence, using force to create new territorial realities, renaming islands, and seeking to impose its version of history on the waters of the region.
We honor the likes of Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Gregorio del Pilar, and Apolinario Mabini, as well as the countless modern-day heroes who have left indelible marks on our nation’s history, serving as beacons of courage, resilience, and patriotism. As we celebrate this day, it is imperative that we reflect on the significance of their sacrifices and imbibe the values they exemplified in our lives as a people.
