PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Monday called on Filipinos to follow Dr. Jose Rizal’s love for the country as he led the commemoration of the national hero’s 128th death anniversary.
“Since his ultimate sacrifice in 1896, Dr. Jose Rizal’s vision of a just and forward-thinking society is no less alive today than it was more than a century ago,” Marcos said on Rizal Day as he laid a wreath at the hero’s monument at the Luneta accompanied by first lady Liza Araneta-Marcos and his son Ilocos Norte Rep. Ferdinand Alexander Marcos.
“I call on my fellow Filipinos to look back in pride and embody all the things he cherished-love of the country, dedication to the truth and commitment to the betterment of our people,” he added.
This year’s Rizal Day theme “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral Aming Nilalandas,” emphasizes the continued relevance of Rizal’s ideas and literary works in building a strong and united nation.
Marcos urged Filipinos to take to heart Rizal’s words and ideals that stirred a national movement for freedom.
“Truly, it is through Dr. Rizal’s works that one can realize that true change can begin within us, especially when we stand firm on the issues that we face today,” the President said.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte urged Filipinos to remember Rizal’s courage in the face of oppression.
“The severe trial that he went through reminds us that even in the darkest hour, the light of truth and justice can prevail,” Duterte said in Filipino.
At the House of Representatives, Speaker Ferdinand Martin Romualdez echoed Marcos’ message.
“On this day, let us not only remember Rizal’s sacrifice but also strive to embody his ideals,” Romualdez said in a statement.
“Whether in the fields of education, science, governance or public service, we can see how Rizal’s heroism has influenced every Filipino who serves for the betterment of everyone,” Romualdez added.
In addition to the rites at the Luneta, the National Historical Commission of the Philippines and other government agencies organized educational exhibits and cultural shows to celebrate Rizal’s life and teachings.
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