EDITORIAL - Everyday heroes

The nation marks Heroes’ Day today as an indignation rally is held in Manila’s Rizal Park against the brazen misuse of public funds through the pork barrel system. The protest march is also being staged a week after the nation commemorated the 30th anniversary of the assassination of former senator Benigno S. Aquino Jr. The theme of the commemorative rites was a call for heroism in day-to-day life. Civic vigilance against corruption is just one of the many aspects of that type of heroism.

Ninoy Aquino famously said the Filipino is worth dying for. As important as dying for the country, however, is living for its continuing betterment. Everyone has a role to play in achieving this goal. In recent years the country has been receiving good reviews on various fronts, but remains a regional laggard in terms of economic prosperity and many human development indicators.

Years after being declared a hero by CNN, educator Efren Peñaflorida continues to inspire. Rising from abject poverty, Peñaflorida sought to share his knowledge with the less privileged, providing free education on wheels to children.

There are many everyday heroes like Peñaflorida in this country, quietly doing their best in their chosen fields, and finding satisfaction in helping others. In their own way, they are carrying on the struggle of the nation’s founding fathers to make the country a better place. What’s good for the nation generally redounds to the good of each citizen.

Today the nation remembers the heroism of those who struggled against great odds to create a Philippine republic. The day is also dedicated to the ordinary heroes who struggle from day to day to make the republic strong.