As the country commemorated “Araw ng Kagitingan,” formerly the Fall of Bataan, yesterday we are reminded of the heroism and sacrifice of Filipino and American soldiers during World War II.

It is a day etched in the collective memory of a nation that refused to surrender, even in the face of overwhelming odds. But while we remember the past, the present calls us once more to summon the same valor — “kagitingan” — in confronting the urgent threats that endanger our sovereignty and democratic ideals.

Today, the Philippines finds itself in the crosshairs of geopolitical tensions, particularly in the West Philippine Sea, where China’s increasingly aggressive expansionism continues to erode our territorial integrity.

Despite clear rulings by international courts and the firm protests by our government, Chinese vessels persist in intruding into our exclusive economic zone, harassing Filipino fishermen and erecting militarized structures on reefs that are undeniably ours.

This modern struggle for our national dignity may not involve bayonets and trenches, but it demands no less courage. Just as the defenders of Bataan stood their ground against a superior force, so must we, as a people, stand united in asserting our maritime rights.

The fight now is one of diplomacy, national unity, and steadfast resistance against coercion. It is also a test of leadership — and therein lies another cause for concern.

Our domestic front is marred by the growing pains of inexperience. As the reins of power are held by leaders who are still groping through the complexities of governance, uncertainty looms.

The cries for competence, integrity, and clear direction grow louder each day. It is during times like this that history must remind us: leadership without courage is no leadership at all.

“Araw ng Kagitingan” is not just a ritualistic observance — it is a call to arms, figuratively speaking. It is an annual invitation for every Filipino to rekindle a sense of patriotism that is proactive, not performative. Valor today means defending not only our seas but our values — truth, justice, accountability and the sovereignty of our people’s will.

We must not allow foreign intimidation to silence our national interest, nor can we afford to let political inexperience be the excuse for inaction. Every generation has its Bataan. Ours may be a diplomatic standoff rather than a battlefield, a struggle for leadership more than liberation, but the call remains the same: stand firm, hold the line and never yield.

As we lay wreaths and recall the grueling Bataan Death March, let us also march forward with renewed resolve. Kagitingan is not a relic of the past. It is a living, breathing duty that rests on each of us — soldier, civilian, leader and citizen alike.

In commemorating “Araw ng Kagitingan,” we honor the bravery of those who came before us. But we must also be worthy heirs of their sacrifice. In the face of foreign aggression and internal uncertainty, now more than ever, we must find the kagitingan within ourselves.

The future of the nation demands it.