President Ferdinand "Bongbong" Marcos Jr. commemorated the life and legacy of Gat Andres Bonifacio.

On Saturday, the nation celebrated the 161st Birth Anniversary of the leader of the Philippine revolution. 

Bonifacio led hundreds of thousands of Filipinos through the revolutionary organization 'Katipunan' which fought the Spanish colonial rule.

In his message, Marcos highlighted the humble beginnings of Bonifacio and his dreams and goals for the Philippines.

"With his courage, he lit the flames of the Philippine Revolution, which finally united our land and emboldened many to lay down their lives willingly for the cause of our motherland against the colonizers," he said.

He urged Filipinos to honor the legacy of sacrifies of the Katipuneros as "we owe then a debt of gratitude for awakening our nationalist consciousness, upholding our sense of identity, and rousing our spirit of self-determination."

Marcos noted that even after more than a century has passed, Bonifacio's fight carries on as the nation progresses. 

"His courage, selflessness, and determination continue to inspire us all to strive for greatness in our shared task of nation-building," he said. "Let us honor his memory by finding a deeper meaning in his sacrifice and doing our part in liberating our country from the shackles of hunger, corruption, criminality, and other ills of society."

Marcos hoped that with Bonifacio's patriotism, discipline, and love for one another as a guide, Filipinos are empowered to live a life of genuine peace, progress, and harmony.