MANILA – President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. urged Filipinos to reflect on the enduring legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal by embracing his ideals and continuing his work toward a just and progressive society.
In his Rizal Day message on Monday, the Chief Executive said the national hero’s vision of a just and forward-thinking society is no less alive today than it was more than a century ago.
President Marcos also called on Filipinos to not only remember Rizal’s sacrifices but also to take to heart the ideals that fueled the revolution for Philippine independence.
“As we remember his noble works and honorable life, let us take to heart his words and ideals that awakened the consciousness of our forebears and stirred a national movement for freedom,” Marcos said.
He added: “I call on my fellow Filipinos to look back in pride and embody all the things Rizal cherished – love of country, dedication to the truth, and commitment to the betterment of our people.”
President Marcos also mentioned that the values of patriotism, truth, and dedication to the welfare of the people that Rizal espoused remain crucial to the country’s progress.
He urged Filipinos to embody these values in their daily lives, whether in service to their communities, in the pursuit of knowledge, or in working toward the upliftment of the marginalized.
“True change begins within us, especially when we stand firm on the issues that we face today. Let us be bold enough to be catalysts of change and hold on to the belief that each of us can contribute to the beloved Philippines,” he said.
Meanwhile, Vice President Sara Duterte-Carpio, in her Rizal Day message, called on the Filipinos to strive for a Philippines that is “just, equal and truly free.”
“Ang napakatinding pagsubok na kanyang (Rizal) pinagdaanan ay nagpapaalala sa atin na kahit sa pinakamadilim na oras, ang liwanag ng katotohanan at katarungan ay maaaring manaig,” Duterte-Carpio said.
“Parangalan natin ang kanyang alaala sa pamamagitan ng paninindigan para sa tama at kolektibong pagsusumikap tungo sa mas makatarungan, pantay, at tunay na malayang Pilipinas,” she added.
The Philippines observes a holiday every 30th of December to commemorate the execution of national hero Jose Rizal, who was killed on the said date in 1896 for rebellion after his novels — critical of the Spanish government — sparked an independence revolution./PN
