Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. on Sunday enjoined Filipinos to become modern-day heroes by voting wisely on May 12.

“All of us today can be modern-day heroes. We can do that by using our votes wisely,” Brawner said in a speech during the 80th Baguio Liberation Day celebration at Veterans Memorial Park here.

“This coming May 12, we will be going to the polling centers and we going to use that power, use that voice, in order for us to bring changes to our societies, to our communities.”

Brawner said Filipinos must guard their freedom not only from external threats but also from internal division, deceit and misinformation.

“May the story of the liberation of Baguio inspire us to be vigilant and united we commemorate the heroes who gave their lives 80 year ago,” he said.

Brawner, who was born in this city, said the country’s present challenges may be different in form from what Baguio faced eight decades ago, but they still call for the same bravery and unity showed by Filipino and American forces who defended the city from Japanese invaders.

“In the [West Philippine Sea], we defend our sovereignty not with missiles, not with rifles alone but with wise diplomacy and steadfast commitment to our nation’s dignity,” he said.

Brawner pointed out that unlike 80 years ago, the Japanese are now on the side of the Philippines and the United States as far as the West Philippine Sea issue is concerned.

“After this ceremony, I will be flying to [Cesar] Basa Air Base for the integrated air and missile defense exercise. And in that exercise, we are going to test how we are going to defend the archipelago of the Philippines not just with the Americans but this time with the Japanese,” he said, referring to the ongoing PH-US military exercises. (PNA)