Today we commemorate the anniversary of the 1896 execution of National Hero Jose Rizal in Bagumbayan.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines has lined up several activities for the hero’s day. There are nationwide flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies, taking place at various locations – Manila, Calamba, and Dapitan — this morning. An exhibit called “Remembering Rizal in Artworks and Monuments” is being unveiled at the NHCP Central Office in Ermita, Manila. Finally, “Hagod Rizal,” a commemorative exhibit and portraiture workshop, will be held at the Museo ni Jose Rizal in Fort Santiago, Intramuros.
For most Filipinos, Rizal Day is an additional holiday between Christmas and New Year, with preparations for the New Year traditions likely eclipsing any further reflections on how Rizal remains alive and relevant in today’s context.
But we wonder how Rizal would warn us against distraction, apathy, desensitization, and even desperation amid what is happening in our nation.
What would he say, for instance, about the threats we are facing from China in the West Philippine Sea? The ending year was witness to numerous acts of provocation and bullying from our giant neighbor, with our diplomatic protests largely ignored.
What would he think of the recent admissions and revelations on extrajudicial killings, the arrogance and disrespect toward our institutions, and the continued glorification of those who talk tough and cry persecution when they are simply being held accountable for their deeds?
What would he say about the people who refuse to look back on and make reparations for the sins of the past and instead stand defiant and unapologetic?
And how would he regard the people’s continued preference for popular names even without the commensurate qualifications and even with persistent shadows of wrongdoing cast upon their persons?
Amid the revelry of busy-ness of the season, may we take some moments to think about why the virtues of Rizal last over time,even as it seems so easy for Filipinos to be sweet-talked by those bent on styling themselves as heroes.
May we end the year knowing we could do immensely better, and make our nation’s progress worthy of Rizal’s sacrifice 128 years on.
