MANILA, April 27 -- President Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. on Saturday urged Filipinos to uphold Lapulapu's legacy of patriotism and rise against modern-day oppressors.

Marcos said the victory of Lapulapu and his men over the Spaniards, led by Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan, in the historic Battle of Mactan on April 27, 1521, showed the Filipino hero's courage and love for the country and demonstrated how "a force that is rooted in community, courage, and integrity can destroy even the strongest of opponents."

He said the valor, bravery, and boldness of Lapulapu during the Battle of Mactan, which became the epitome of the "indomitable Filipino spirit" over the years, are worthy of emulation even during modern times.

"The same is wha...