THE Philippine Embassy in Beijing introduced Chinese students to the life and teachings of Dr. Jose Rizal as the country commemorates the 128th anniversary of the hero’s martyrdom.
Chinese students were introduced to Rizal’s childhood in a program titled “Ni Hao Philippines” hosted by the Philippine Embassy in Beijing on Dec. 20.
Ni Hao Philippines is a flagship cultural program of the embassy, wherein visiting Chinese students experience aspects of Philippine culture through presentations, games and various activities.
“We want to show that even great men and women come from humble beginnings,” said Philippine Ambassador to Beijing Jaime FlorCruz in a statement, noting that before Rizal became a national hero, he was “Pepe,” the boy from Calamba, Laguna.
Vice Consul Diane Merce Bartolome said Rizal is a symbol of friendship between the Philippines and China.
“His Chinese roots show how people from different places can work together,” Bartolome told Chinese students during her presentation titled “Young Pepe: The Childhood Adventures of Rizal,” where she discussed the hero’s literary works for children such as “Ang Pagong at Ang Matsing” (The Turtle and the Monkey) and “Sa Aking Mga Kababata” (To My Fellow Youth).
Meanwhile, Japanese Ambassador to the Philippines Endo Kazuya on Monday, Dec. 30, joined the Rizal Day celebration at the Luneta.
“May his legacy and indelible contributions to his country continue to serve as inspirations for both Japan and the Philippines alike,” Endo wrote on X (formerly Twitter).
On Sunday, US Ambassador to Manila MaryKay Carlson wrote on X, “On the eve of Rizal Day, my family and I visited the Shrine of Jose Rizal at Fort Santiago to honor his life and work.”
“Dr. Rizal’s dedication to freedom, justice and education continues to inspire us all,” Carlson added.
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