MANILA, (PIA) — President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday, December 30, led the 128th commemoration of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom at the Rizal National Monument in Manila.
The President is joined by First Lady Louise ”Liza” Araneta-Marcos and members of the First Family.
The commemorative program began with arrival honors from the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), followed by the raising of the Philippine flag.
Marcos Jr. laid a wreath at the Rizal Monument alongside National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) Chairman Regalado Trota Jose Jr. and AFP Chief of Staff General Romeo Brawner Jr.
In his Rizal Day message, he called on Filipinos to reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal and urged the public to embrace Rizal’s ideals and continue striving for a just and progressive society.
Marcos emphasized that Rizal’s vision for a fair and forward-thinking Philippines remains relevant today.
“As we remember his noble works and honorable life, let us take to heart his words and ideals that awakened the consciousness of our forebears and stirred a national movement for freedom,” he said.
He encouraged Filipinos to look back with pride and embody the values that Rizal cherished, including love of country, dedication to truth, and commitment to the welfare of the people.
“The values of patriotism, truth, and dedication to the welfare of the people that Rizal espoused remain crucial to our country’s progress,” he added.
Marcos urged citizens to embody these values in their daily lives, whether through community service, the pursuit of knowledge, or efforts to uplift marginalized groups.
“True change begins within us, especially when we stand firm on the issues we face today,” he further said. “Let us be bold enough to be catalysts of change and hold on to the belief that each of us can contribute to the beloved Philippines.”
Similar flag-raising and wreath-laying rites took place in key locations across the country, organized by local government units and various organizations.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines and other government agencies also scheduled educational exhibits, cultural shows, and community programs to celebrate Rizal’s life and teachings, reinforcing his lasting impact on the nation.
This year’s short but meaningful event also featured simultaneous programs at the Rizal Shrines in Calamba City, Laguna, and Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte.
Under the theme “Rizal: Sa Bagong Pilipinas, Buhay at Aral Aming Nilalandas,” the annual remembrance invites Filipinos to reflect on the values exemplified by Rizal’s heroism and how they can serve as a foundation for the future. (JCO/PIA-NCR)
(Photos: RTVM)
