Sajid Bulig was a 13-year-old boy who died saving children during a tragedy in Bocaue, Bulacan. During a town fiesta, a large decorated boat called a pagoda capsized, throwing passengers into the river. As people drowned, Sajid dove into the raging waters and saved six children, one by one, before being struck by debris and dying during his seventh rescue attempt, making the ultimate sacrifice to save others.

2. A hero is a person who does what he/she can for others, without
waiting for rewards or recognition. A hero sacrifices himself/herself –
he/she gives time, strength, talents and love for his country men.
Many heroes offered their lives for the freedom and unity of our people.
These heroes fought for the freedom and independence which we now
enjoy.
Read the story of Sajid Bulig, a young hero in the “Pagoda Tragedy”
Find out the heroic deed done by Sajid.

3. Sajid Bulig, a Young Hero
When the Bocaue tragedy happened, Sajid was only thirteen. The town fiesta in
Bocaue, Bulacan was well – known for its “pagoda” is a gaily decorated boat
which carried the image of the town’s patron saint. Aboard the “pagoda” was a
sizeable number of people who considered themselves lucky to be among its
passengers. There were thousands of people who were gathered on the river
bank watching the procession.
Suddenly, the tragedy struck. The “pagoda’ titled and spilled its passenger into the
river. There was panic and commotion. People, old and young alike drowned.
Sajid was known to be very young swimmer. He did not simply stand by and
watch these people die. He dove into the river. He was able to save six children,
one after the other. On his seventh try, he was no longer lucky. A heavy plank of
the collapsing “pagoda” struck him on the head. Sajid, the young hero boy, died.

4. Apply
How can a young learner like you be a young hero in today’s generation?
• Initiate the desirable traits of our heroes.
• Help preserve our heritage by respecting and honoring the works and deeds of
our heroes.
• Put Filipino values into practice.
• Support activities that will promote our country’s growth.
• Participate in activities that promote Filipino culture.
• Sing the national anthem wholeheartedly.

5. Focus
Our national heroes are honored today because when they were still alive, they
honored our country! They had shown traits that we can be proud of:
- Honesty - selflessness
- Love for our country - patience
- Bravery - industry
We should take pride in the desirable traits of our heroes. If we follow their
examples, we will be able to help our country move forward in attaining greater
freedom, peace and progress.
Such art of great courage the heroes have shown in heroism. Heroism is heroic
conduct, especially as exhibited in fulfilling a high purpose on attaining a noble
end.