President Marcos called on Filipinos to embody Dr. Jose Rizal’s values and profound love for the nation as he led the commemoration of the 127th anniversary of the national hero’s martyrdom at Luneta Park in Manila on Saturday.
“I 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 propel us to have a deep and personal sense of ownership for our land and our future,” Mr. Marcos said.
“May the ideals and spirit of Dr. Jose Rizal live on as we fully realize the Philippines that he and his contemporaries fought hard for,” he added.
Vice President Sara Duterte, for her part, said Rizal’s legacy continues to be a guiding light for all Filipinos.
“Our national hero was a visionary, a man of immense courage and intellect who believed in the power of knowledge to ignite change. His relentless pursuit of education and enlightenment set the stage for his pivotal role in our nation’s history,” said Duterte, who is also the current Education Secretary.
Senate President Juan Miguel Zubiri likewise urged Filipinos not to let the sacrifices of the national hero go in vain.
“Let’s continue his fight. Let us be united in love and in defense of our country and our fellow Filipinos,” Zubiri said.
Speaker Martin Romualdez said Rizal’s deep insights and steadfast dedication to freedom “laid the cornerstone of our national identity.”
“In commemorating his life and works, let us remember that Rizal was more than a historical figure; he was a symbol of hope and the epitome of what it means to love one’s country. His bravery in opposing colonial tyranny and his profound affection for the Philippines remain as vital inspirations to us all,” he said.
In an era where our sovereignty and national identity face new challenges, we must live by Rizal’s ideals. I call upon each of us to embrace Rizal’s spirit in our everyday actions. May his courage inspire us to confront our challenges with dignity and integrity. May his wisdom guide our decisions towards the betterment of our beloved country,” Romualdez added.
