MABALACAT CITY – “Let us not forget the sacrifices of our heroes like Jose Abad Santos who exemplified the highest ideals of service and sacrifice for the greater good. Their stories inspire us to uphold love for our country. Let us honore their memory by living our lives with the same dedication to our nation.”
Mayor Crisostomo Garbo exhorted his fellow Kapampangans to reflect upon and honor the remarkable life and legacy of one of the nation’s greatest heroes, Jose Abad Santos, as the province of Pampanga commemorates the patriotism and martyrdom of the San Fernando-born hero.
Abad Santos served as the Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines and caretaker of the Philippine Commonwealth at a critical juncture in the occupation of the country by the Japanese Imperial Army in World War II.
Known for his bravery and integrity, Abad Santos made the ultimate sacrifice by choosing to stay true to his principles, adamantly refusing to collaborate with the enemy, even unto death by execution in Lanao in May 1942. Until this day, his grave has not been located; his remains unrecovered.
His parting words to his son have, in effect, been immortalized: “Do not cry, Pepito. Show to these people that you are brave. It is an honor to die for one’s country. Not everybody has that chance.”
Garbo believes that Jose Abad Santos’ life serves as a shining example of selflessness and moral fortitude, qualities that every Kapampangan and Filipino should aspire to embody. Mabalacat CIO
