(Editor's Note: Below are the opening remarks of Dr. Dante A. Ang, The Manila Times chairman emeritus, delivered during the publication's 'Tribute to Soldiers' at The Manila Hotel on Monday night, Aug. 28, 2023, coinciding with the Philippines' celebration of National Heroes' Day.)

Thank you, Sen. Orly and Muphet, for the kind introduction. Hon. Vice President Sara Duterte, Congressman Arjo Atayde, AFP Chief of Staff Gen. Romeo S. Brawner Jr. PA, Chief of the Public Attorney's Office and future senator Persida Acosta, Sen. Joey Lina, Sen. Gringo Honasan, former DND secretary and BCDA chairman Delfin Lorenzana, former acting DND secretary Gen. Carlito Galvez, members of our board of judges, the men and women of the Armed Forces of the Philippines, guests, ladies and gentlemen, welcome.