As the country commemorates National Heroes’ Day today, August 25, Masonic District R18 – Negros Island, stands in solemn unity with the Filipino people in paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice and enduring legacy of our national heroes, a press release from the group said.
“This celebration is a living reminder that the freedoms we enjoy today were bought at the cost of every life of our National Heroes,” said VW Laurence Christian J. Valdeviezo, District Deputy Grand Master of Masonic District R18 – Negros Island.
“Among those heroes were men who walked the path of Freemasonry, guided by its principles of liberty, equality and fraternity”, he said.
He said their district proudly highlights the deep historical ties between Freemasonry and the Philippine struggle for independence:
• Andrés Bonifacio, Father of the Philippine Revolution and member of Taliba Lodge No. 165, infused the Katipunan with Masonic ideals of unity and selfless service.
• Emilio Aguinaldo, first President of the Philippine Republic and Mason of Pilar Lodge No. 203, led the proclamation of independence in 1898, embodying the Masonic vow to uphold human dignity.
• Apolinario Mabini, the “Brains of the Revolution” and member of Balagtas Lodge, shaped the moral and civic foundations of the fledgling government.
• Marcelo H. del Pilar, reformist and propagandist, drew strength from the fraternity as he wielded the power of words to challenge tyranny and inspire national unity.
• Dr. José Rizal, though not formally affiliated, championed reform, education, and enlightenment – values deeply aligned with Masonic principles.
This National Heroes’ Day, Freemasons reaffirm their commitment to honor these legacies not only through remembrance, but through action. They call on all Filipinos to embody the virtues of integrity, courage and civic responsibility – living tributes to the heroes who shaped the nation, the press release said.*