As we commemorate the 123rd year of Philippine Independence, our continued aspiration is for all Filipinos to enjoy all the freedoms under a democratic society. 

There are still a few that we must strive to achieve, including freedom from the hardships brought about by the COVID-19 pandemic. 

The past year has tested our country’s ability to cope with the challenges brought about by the pandemic, particularly the assault on our health system and the slowing down of the economy. 

It has also challenged the resilience of our kababayans, who are going through a crisis that many never thought would happen in this lifetime. 

Ang hangarin din natin ay makamit ang kalayaan mula sa kahirapan para sa marami nating kababayan. Patuloy tayo na magsusulong ng mga batas at polisiya na ang hangad ay maiangat ang buhay ng bawat Pilipino, lalo na ang mga mahihirap na ginagawa ang lahat para mabigyan ng mas magandang kinabukasan ang kanilang mga pamilya. 

Isang maligayang araw ng Kalayaan at mabuhay ang Pilipinas at ang sambayanang Pilipino. ###