Nesthy Petecio, Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo, Manny Pacquiao, and Jovelyn Gonzaga marked the 127th Independence Day with tributes to national heroes and reflections on the freedom that empowers them to represent the Philippines.
Filipino sports icons joined the nation in honoring the 127th Philippine Independence Day, sharing heartfelt messages that paid tribute to the country’s heroes and celebrated the freedom they now enjoy as athletes representing the flag.
Olympic silver medalist Nesthy Petecio expressed her gratitude to those who fought for the nation’s liberty, emphasizing how their sacrifices have allowed her—and many others—to dream and compete freely.
“Happy Independence Day, Pilipinas! 🫡
“Gusto kong magpasalamat sa lahat ng bayani na lumaban para sa kalayaan ng ating bansa.Bilang isang atleta, I’m proud to say na isa rin ako sa mga bunga ng kalayaang ‘yan... And most of all, malaya akong irepresenta ang ating bansa sa buong mundo,” she wrote.
Olympic gold medalist Hidilyn Diaz-Naranjo reminded fellow Filipinos that wherever they are in the world, the heart remains with the country.
“Maligayang Araw ng Kalayaan! 🇵🇭 We remember those who gave us freedom—and celebrate every Filipino who continues to serve, uplift, and love the nation in their own way,” she shared on Instagram.
World champion Manny Pacquiao called for continued service and prayer for the country.
“Happy 127th Independence Day! 🇵🇭 Kalayaan. Kinabukasan. Kasaysayan. Itaas natin ang watawat ng Pilipinas nang may dangal... God bless the Philippines!”
Philippine Army sergeant and national volleyball player Jovelyn Gonzaga also joined the commemoration, sharing a reel of the Armed Forces in celebration of freedom and service.
As the Philippines marked another year of independence, these athletes reminded the nation that pride, patriotism, and purpose go hand in hand—on and off the field.