Villar stresses need for modern day Bonifacio to lead the country

Senate President Manny Villar today stressed the need for leaders in government who are in the same cast as National Hero Andres Bonifacio for the country to move forward.

"We are in need of leaders like Bonifacio who are transparent, credible and has a genuine desire to serve the people," Villar said during the celebration of the 144th birth anniversary of Bonifacio headed by Manila Mayor Alfredo Lim.

Villar also said "sipag at tiyaga" fueled by love of country was the key ingredient that led to the successful organization of the Katipunan, the proponent of the1896 Revolution.

"In the absence of communication technology, dearth of financial resources and under the threatening glare of the Guardia Civil, organizing a movement that will bring independence to the country was a daunting undertaking but he persevered to end the 300 years Spanish colonialism," Villar said.

Villar said the rapid expansion of the Katipunan was an indication of the strong and steady support he enjoyed from the people "which is only possible when people truly believe and trust their leaders."

"Nangibabaw sa isip at puso ni Bonifacio ang kapakanan ng sambayanang Pilipino nang higit pa sa kanyang sariling pangangailangan... Ang lakas, talino at buhay ni Bonifacio ay inialay niya sa bayan. Diwa ng kabayanihan ang dumadaloy sa kanyang pagkatao," Villar said.

Villar also urged Filipinos to follow the example of Bonifacio through the honest and faithful discharge of our duties for the country.

"Incidentally, Bonifacio, Mayor Lim, and myself all came from Tondo. We had humble beginnings but being poor did not stop us from achieving our aspirations," he said.