PHILIPPINE EMBASSY TO CANADA AND KNIGHTS OF RIZAL - GATINEAU CHAPTER HONOR LEGACY OF DR JOSE RIZAL AND COMMEMORATE 128TH ANNIVERSARY OF RIZAL'S MARTYR.
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PR-160-2024
December 27, 2024, Ottawa - The Embassy of the Philippines to Canada, in partnership with the Gatineau Knights of Rizal (KOR) Chapter, commemorated the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal during solemn rites held at the Embassy Chancery on December 27, 2024.
The event began with a parade of knights and a wreath-laying ceremony at the bust of Dr. Rizal, followed by the national anthem.
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Mr. Julius Abad, Knight Grand Officer of Rizal and Chapter Commander of Area 2 of the Eastern Region of Canada, delivered a welcome address. In his message, CDA Fischer emphasized that this year's theme "Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas" (Rizal in the New Philippines: Life and Lessons, as our guide) invites us to reflect on how Rizal's lessons still resonate today. . His teachings on civic duty, moral integrity, social awareness, and critical thinking remain essential to combat misinformation and moral confusion in today's world.
This year's Rizal Day commemoration is a cornerstone in the celebration of the 75th anniversary of diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Canada, reminding Filipinos in Canada to increase their visibility and active participation in the political, economic, and social security of the country. CDA Fischer reminded the guests: "In honor of Rizal, we also renew our commitment to the ideals he espoused and follow the same path as Rizal, defined by political and social awareness, critical thinking, and a sense of responsibility for the future."
A video clip of Dr. Rizal's final moments was introduced by KOR member Mr. Sean Brazeau. "Among many revolutionaries, some even question whether he himself is directly a revolutionary. But regardless of that principle, he understood the importance of a pragmatic engagement with the realities on the ground to achieve the ultimate goal of an enlightened and free people. And at the end of the day, that is something we have to look at. As a Canadian and as someone who sees the struggles we face here today, and also the struggles around the world, from the West Philippine Sea to the Middle East and far beyond, I think we need to demonstrate pragmatism and realism, but also commitment. . to our fundamental principles and values. So, on the 128th anniversary of Dr. Rizal's death, I would like to ask each of us here to think about what we can do to better follow his legacy and his way of doing things," said Mr. Brazeau.
The ceremony continued with the singing of the song "Bayan Ko" in the choir. KOR Chapter Commander Dax Morfe said in his closing remarks: "We commemorate the life and ultimate sacrifice of Dr. Jose Rizal. His intelligent speech was not only an act of defiance against colonial oppression, but a testament to the profound power of choice. The power to choose is a gift, a responsibility, and an opportunity. It is the power to shape our destiny, to create a better future for ourselves and for those who come after us. Just as Rizal chose to fight for freedom, we too must choose to use our voices, our talents, our actions to build a just and equal society." Mr. Morfe added: "Let us be inspired by Rizal's courage and dedication to his ideals. "We choose to live with purpose, make a difference and leave a legacy that will inspire generations to come." »
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The event concluded with a reception hosted by members of the KOR Gatineau chapter. END
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