Chief Justice Alexander Gesmundo on Thursday led the 127th Independence Day commemoration at the Emilio Aguinaldo Shrine, calling on Filipinos to view freedom not just as a historical milestone but as a continuing responsibility.

Speaking at the site where Philippine independence was first proclaimed in 1898, Gesmundo reminded attendees that the liberties enjoyed today were hard-won and must be actively defended through good governance, civic participation and the protection of rights.

“Freedom is not a reward we receive when struggle ends,” said Gesmundo. “It is a goal we must renew every single day.”

The Chief Magistrate recalled how Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo first raised the Philippine flag at the shrine, stressing that the act symbolized more than independence from colonial rule — it marked the beginning of Filipino agency and self-determination.

“The Declaration of Independence was more than just flags and anthems — it was the birth of a nation that would chart its own course,” he said. “Our forebears did not fight merely out of ambition, but out of a deep understanding of the injustices they endured.”

Gesmundo also posed challenging questions to the audience.

“Are we using our freedom to correct injustice, to protect the rights of all regardless of social standing or belief, or simply to serve our own interests?” he asked.

He also cited former President Manuel Quezon’s often-quoted declaration about preferring a “government run like hell by Filipinos” over a colonial administration “run like heaven,” but added a reminder that it is “not a license to be indifferent or incompetent” as real freedom requires real responsibility.

Instead of guns and revolutions, Gesmundo said, today’s struggles play out in the courtrooms, classrooms and neighborhoods of the nation.

The chief justice challenged officials and citizens alike to reject corruption, abuse and complacency.

“Our enemies today are not just foreign forces — they include the corruption and apathy we tolerate in our own backyard,” Gesmundo said.