MANILA, Philippines: President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. called on Filipinos to draw inspiration from the “timeless values” of Dr. Jose Rizal as the nation commemorates the hero’s 127th death anniversary. Accompanied by his wife, First Lady Marie Louise “Liza” Araneta-Marcos, and their children, the President arrived at 6:50 a.m. and received military honors to kick off a short commemorative ceremony at the Rizal Park in Manila.
The ceremony began with a flag-raising rite attended by military and government officials, including National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chairman Emmanuel Franco Calairo. Following the flag-raising ceremony, Marcos offered a wreath at the Rizal National Monument, a tradition observed simultaneously in various historical sites nationwide.
In his address, President Marcos emphasized the importance of emulating the values demonstrated by Dr. Jose Rizal and urged Filipinos to develop a sense of ownership for their land. He stated, “On the 127th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, I thus enjoin all of you to keep emulating the timeless values we can learn from his life and works. I also call on everyone to let the genuine love for the country that he lived out and later died for propel us to have a deep and personal sense of ownership for our land and our future.”
President Marcos highlighted that Rizal’s influence continues to resonate in a world still plagued by greed, oppression, and injustice, more than a century after his demise. He urged Filipinos to strive towards a brighter tomorrow, walking with purpose, passion, and nationalism in every endeavor, in order to overcome the challenges that stand in their way.
Dr. Jose Rizal was executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896, for the crime of rebellion against the Spanish colonial government. His death served as a catalyst for the revolution against Spanish rule, igniting the spirit of independence in the hearts of Filipinos.
As we commemorate Dr. Jose Rizal’s 127th death anniversary, it is important to reflect on his sacrifices and the lessons he left behind. Rizal’s unwavering dedication to his country and his commitment to the pursuit of justice continue to inspire generations of Filipinos.
His writings, including the novels “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” shed light on the social injustices and oppression experienced by the Filipino people during the Spanish colonial era. Rizal’s courage to speak out against these injustices ultimately cost him his life, but his legacy lives on.
Dr. Jose Rizal’s influence extends beyond the borders of the Philippines. His ideas and writings have inspired countless individuals around the world, who continue to fight for freedom, equality, and justice. His belief in the power of education as a means to empower the masses remains relevant today.
As we honor the memory of Dr. Jose Rizal, let us remember the importance of standing up for what is right, even in the face of adversity. Let us strive to emulate his timeless values of patriotism, love for country, and dedication to the welfare of the Filipino people.
On this day, let us renew our commitment to building a better future for our nation. Let us work together to create a society where the principles that Dr. Jose Rizal fought and died for are upheld and celebrated.
As President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. aptly stated, “Let us strive to walk with the same purpose, passion, and nationalism in our every endeavor so we may overcome all the challenges that stand in our way towards achieving a brighter tomorrow.”
May the spirit of Dr. Jose Rizal continue to guide and inspire us as we forge ahead on the path to progress and nation-building.
Source: The Manila Times
