PRESIDENT Ferdinand Marcos Jr. on Tuesday urged Filipinos to draw inspiration from national hero Dr. Jose Rizal by upholding patriotism, truth, and responsible citizenship, as the nation commemorates Rizal Day.
For her part, Vice President Sara Duterte said the true lesson of Rizal was very clear: “Independence is not only liberty from foreign aggression, but also the freedom of our thoughts and sentiments from abuse, disunity, and evil,” she said in Filipino.
“Let our celebration deepen our resolve to live by the values he embodied: love of country, respect for truth, a tireless pursuit of just reform, and the courage to speak and act for what is right,” the President Marcos said in his message.
“May this commemoration inspire every Filipino-especially the youth, whom Rizal so dearly cherished-to pair patriotism with responsible citizenship so that we can be of better service to the country,” he added.
Marcos said Rizal, through his writings and martyrdom, awakened the citizens’ sense of identity and showed that Filipinos deserve dignity, freedom, and the power to determine their own future.
“Today, as Filipinos demand integrity and accountability from its leaders, we look up to his life to provide us with guidance and strength,” the Chief Executive said.
President Marcos added that “across all spheres in life, both public and private, may we allow Rizal’s principles to guide the way we live and work for our nation so that in whatever we do, we always choose compassion over indifference and country over personal interests.”
Senate President Vicente Sotto III, on other hand, reminded the people of what Rizal said; “The youth is the hope of the nation.”
As a whole, the Senate in a statement said it joins the nation in honoring Dr. José Rizal, whose martyrdom continues to inspire generations. “His courage, love of country, and steadfast pursuit of truth and justice remain guiding lights for our people. As we commemorate his legacy, the Senate renews its commitment to uphold these values in service of national progress and the welfare of every Filipino.”
The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) also joined in commemorating Rizal Day.
AFP chief Gen. Romeo Brawner Jr. said Rizal’s life and sacrifice awakened the nation’s consciousness and continued to define the ideals of courage, dignity, and love of country.
“Rizal’s belief that a nation’s strength rests on principle and character continues to guide the AFP in fulfilling its constitutional mandate to protect the people and secure the sovereignty of the State,” Brawner said.
He noted that this year’s Rizal Day observance carries added significance as it coincides with the 90th anniversary of the Armed Forces of the Philippines. He said that for nine decades, the AFP has upheld the ideals championed by Rizal—selfless service, patriotism, and unwavering devotion to the nation—through the sacrifices of generations of Filipino soldiers.
“These are the men and women who stand guard over our land, seas, and skies,” he added.
