Lapu-Lapu's victory against Spanish invaders is a reminder that Filipinos will defend their territory against any foreign intruders, Presidential Spokesperson Harry Roque said as the country marked the 500th anniversary victory of Mactan.
In an online press briefing, Roque said the Filipino victory against Spanish forces in the Battle of Mactan 500 years ago should serve as "warning" to foreign powers that seek to occupy Philippine territory.
However, Roque did not mention any particular issue in his statement, saying the Filipino people would stand up against colonizers.
Filipinos remember how Lapu Lapu, the datu (leader) of the island of Mactan, inspired a force of Indigenous warriors to defeat Magellan’s crew — and the Spanish threat to their sovereignty — on April 27, 1521.
Quoting President Rodrigo Duterte, Roque said “we want to be friends with everyone, but make no mistake, 500 years ago, we made Lapu-Lapu into a hero. And today, many of our Filipinos would become heroes defending territory that is truly ours.”
He said the President would do what he thought was best for the country, adding “it is important that the President makes the right decision even if it's not popular.”
Meanwhile, Duterte likened the medical and essential front-liners to Filipino warrior Lapulapu in celebrating the quincentennial commemorations of the Victory of Mactan amid the prevailing COVID-19 pandemic.
Five centuries ago, Lapulapu and the brave warriors of Mactan fearlessly fought of foreign invaders who threatened their cherished way of life. They never cowered against the might of the enemy and they bled in defense of their homeland,” he said.
“Today, we remember their gallantry by honoring the worthy heirs of Lapulapu’s legacy. Our medical and essential frontliners who in face of danger caused by COVID-19 pandemic continue to risk their lives, their own lives to ensure for the safety of their fellow Filipinos,” he added.
Lapulapu and the brave warriors of Mactan “fearlessly fought off foreign invaders who threatened their cherished way of life.”
“They never cowered against the might of the enemy and they bled in defense of their homeland,” Duterte said.