MANILA — Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio on Thursday used the commemoration of Araw ng Kagitingan to issue a strong warning that foreign interference in the Philippines’ justice system threatens the country’s sovereignty and freedom, invoking the sacrifices of Filipino war heroes to underscore her message.
In a video message marking the 84th Day of Valor, Duterte-Carpio honored Filipino soldiers who fought during World War II, stressing that their legacy remains relevant as the nation faces modern challenges to its independence.
“The Day of Valor reminds us that our freedom was bought at a high price. It is a reminder that the defense of our Republic is a continuous duty that falls upon every generation,” Duterte-Carpio said.
The Vice President emphasized that present-day heroism includes defending the country’s sovereignty and protecting the integrity of its legal system.
“Ang tunay na kagitingan ay matatagpuan sa ating matibay na paninindigan na protektahan ang ating soberanya,” she said.
Duterte-Carpio warned that any involvement by foreign institutions in Philippine legal processes constitutes a direct challenge to the nation’s independence.
“Anumang pagtatangka ng mga banyagang institusyon na manghimasok sa ating hustisya ay isang tuwirang hamon sa kalayaang ipinaglaban ng ating mga bayani sa Bataan,” she said.
Although she did not name specific entities, the Vice President has repeatedly criticized the International Criminal Court over the detention of her father, former President Rodrigo Duterte, which she has previously described as “kidnapping.”
She maintained that the Philippines has the capacity to govern itself and enforce its laws without external intervention.
“May kakayahan tayong pamunuan ang ating sarili at pairalin ang ating sariling mga batas sa ilalim ng ating sariling mga hukuman,” Duterte-Carpio said.
Drawing from the resilience of Filipino war heroes, Duterte-Carpio called on the public to remain steadfast amid current challenges.
“Kagaya ng ating mga bayani sa Bataan, huwag tayong sumuko. Harapin natin ang mga hamon ng ating panahon taglay ang parehong diwa ng katatagan — panindigan ang isang matatag, ligtas, at tunay na malayang Pilipinas,” she added./PN
