Senator Joel Villanueva's Independence Day message

We are one with the Filipino people in celebrating 121 years of independence.

On this day, we remember the sacrifices and heroism of our forefathers who fought tooth and nail against colonizers which paved the way for the liberties we currently enjoy.

At present, we face social ills that hamper our progress as a nation. May this day be a fitting reminder of our continuing battle against abuse, indifference and corruption that come in the form of lost opportunities for our countrymen, unsafe work environment being suffered not only by our local workers but also our OFWs, jobs being stolen by illegal foreign workers, among others.

Together, let us unite against these ills and build a nation worthy of the sacrifices of our fallen heroes.

May we all have a meaningful and blessed observance of Independence Day. Mabuhay ang Pilipinas!