![“Today, the spirit of [Jose] Rizal continues to guide many Filipinos who strive for social justice and equality. While the forms of our struggles may have evolved, the pursuit of freedom from fear, violence, and injustice remains a core aspiration for all,” says Police Regional Office 6 director Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan. AJ PALCULLO/PN](https://www.panaynews.net/wp-content/uploads/2025/12/nel-rizal-day-copy-696x464.jpg "nel rizal day copy")
ILOILO — In a moving tribute to the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, Police Regional Office 6 (PRO-6) director Brigadier General Josefino D. Ligan delivered an inspiring message during Rizal Day commemorations on December 30 at Plaza Libertad in Iloilo City.
The event was organized by the Iloilo City Government under Mayor Raisa Treñas, marking the 129th anniversary of Rizal’s martyrdom.
Ligan highlighted the enduring relevance of Rizal’s life and writings, which continue to inspire Filipinos in their pursuit of freedom, justice, and dignity.
“He lived in an era marked by oppression, where the quest for freedom was suppressed and the voices of the people silenced. Hope, at times, appeared perilously dim,” Ligan said.
He added: “Yet Rizal chose courage over fear, truth over silence, and love for his country above personal gain. His literary masterpieces, particularly Noli Me Tangere, demonstrated that societal wounds cannot heal without being openly acknowledged and addressed.”
Ligan underscored Rizal’s role as a reformist who wielded the pen as a powerful tool for change, awakening collective consciousness and rekindling a sense of dignity among Filipinos. Through El Filibusterismo, Rizal also warned of the perils of a nation stripped of justice, cautioning that such conditions inevitably lead to unrest.
“Today, the spirit of Rizal continues to guide many Filipinos who strive for social justice and equality,” Ligan remarked. “While the forms of our struggles may have evolved, the pursuit of freedom from fear, violence, and injustice remains a core aspiration for all.”
He emphasized that Rizal’s legacy calls for civic responsibility, noting that meaningful change begins when ordinary citizens act with integrity, even in the face of adversity.
“Ipinaalala sa’tin ng buhay ni Rizal na ang tunay na pagbabago ay nagsisimula kapag ang karaniwang mamamayan ay piniling gawin ang tama kahit ito ay mahirap. Para sa amin sa Philippine National Police, napakalalim ng kahulugan ng pamanang ito ni Rizal. Ang kanyang buhay ay paalala na ang kapangyarihan ay hindi dapat gamitin para kumitil, kundi upang mag-protekta, hindi para abusuhin, kundi para maglingkod nang may malasakit,” he said.
Ligan also highlighted Rizal’s belief in the transformative power of education, moral courage, and national unity, stressing that a compassionate society united in righteousness holds boundless potential for progress.
“The lessons imparted by Rizal remain crucial as we, as a society — government, community, and law enforcement — work together to foster peace rooted in trust and cooperation,” he added.
As part of the commemoration, wreaths were laid at the foot of Rizal’s statue by Mayor Treñas and Ligan.
Initiated in 1898 by General Emilio Aguinaldo, Rizal Day serves as a national day of mourning for Filipinos who suffered under Spanish rule and continues to inspire a deep sense of nationalism and appreciation for Rizal’s enduring legacy.
Through events like these, the nation is reminded that Rizal’s life and ideals transcend history, serving as a powerful call for all Filipinos to uphold truth, justice, and unwavering service in building a just and peaceful society./PN
