President Marcos Urges Youth to Emulate Apolinario Mabini’s Dedication to Nation-Building

TANAUAN, BATANGAS — President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. encouraged Filipino youth to take inspiration from Apolinario Mabini’s life and contributions during a speech at the 160th birth anniversary commemoration of Mabini at the Mabini Shrine.

According to Philippines News Agency, Mabini’s resilience and intellectual contributions as the key adviser to Emilio Aguinaldo and his role in the Philippine Revolution exemplify the potential to overcome challenges and significantly impact national progress. Marcos highlighted Mabini’s determination despite his disabilities, and his profound influence on the country’s early independence and political philosophy.

Mabini, known as the ‘Sublime Paralytic’, was a prominent lawyer and nationalist who shaped the First Philippine Republic’s policies and was an advocate for Philippine self-governance during the tumultuous period of the Philippine-American War. His writings continue to inspire current and future generations on the values of resilience and national pride.

President Marcos expressed his hope that Mabini’s life story and his political and social philosophies would resonate with today’s youth, motivating them to actively participate in shaping a more unified and progressive Philippines. He emphasized the importance of collective effort to carry forward Mabini’s legacy in building a “New Philippines” where everyone can contribute to a more equitable society.

Mabini’s enduring legacy as a patriot who faced considerable adversity with courage and intelligence was also commemorated. He died in 1903 after being exiled and later repatriated from Guam, leaving behind a rich legacy of nationalism and perseverance.