On Sunday, we marked the 162nd anniversary of the birth of Andres Bonifacio, the father of the Philippine Revolution. We found ourselves reflecting not just on the life of the national hero, but also on the current state of our nation — a state marred by corruption, public disillusionment and protests.

Such a juxtaposition offers a powerful lens through which we can assess where we are as a people and what Bonifacio’s legacy means in the context of today’s struggles.

Known as “El Supremo,” Bonifacio ignited a revolution against colonial oppression, rallying Filipinos who faced inequality and injustice. His brave efforts to establish the “Kataas-taasang, Kagalang-galangang Katipunan ng mga Anak ng Bayan” (KKK) epitomized his belief that freedom must be won, not requested.

Today, as protesters gather to voice their discontent with the ongoing corruption within our government, they carry forth the very spirit of Bonifacio’s rebellion.

Modern-day protests are not just an expression of anger; they echo the revolutionary fervor that Bonifacio harnessed over a century ago. He understood that the plight of the ordinary Filipino needed to be addressed through bold action rather than passive compliance.

Throughout the current crisis, I see a standing President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. showing understanding and maintaining maximum tolerance towards protesters, allowing the people’s voice to be heard. He knows that every Filipino deserves a good government and every leader must deliver it.

Let’s give credit where it is due. It was the President who initiated the investigations that opened the Pandora’s box of massive corruption at the Department of Public Works and Highways and Congress. The President’s initiative also led to the discovery of corruption in other government agencies. For this alone, the President deserves my praise.

Corruption, an insidious form of oppression, undermines the principles of liberty and justice. Just as Bonifacio galvanized farmers, workers, and artisans into a unified force against the colonizers, modern-day activists are uniting against a system they perceive as failing to serve the people’s interests.

The President, in paying tribute to Bonifacio’s role in inspiring courage and unity among Filipinos, reminds us that the fight against corruption remains a lesson relevant today.

Bonifacio’s historical significance transcends the era in which he fought; his legacy serves as a crucial touchstone against which we evaluate our public officials today.

His execution in 1897 remains a testament to the betrayal of ideals, reflecting a deep-seated distrust toward those who would compromise the cause of freedom for self-serving interests.

 Let the echoes of protest fill the streets, let them resonate with the cries of Bonifacio’s time.

Let every rally and march reaffirm our collective stand against corruption, reminding ourselves that the struggle for justice and truth is what truly honors the legacy of our national hero.

The torch of Bonifacio belongs to us, and with its flame we can illuminate the path towards a better Philippines.