President Duterte enjoined all Filipinos to embody Dr. Jose Rizal’s patriotism in all endeavors as the country marked the 122nd anniversary of Rizal’s martyrdom yesterday.
In his message, Duterte said the occasion marks an auspicious time to reflect on the legacy of the country’s national hero.
“Rizal’s courageous life and inspiring works have been instrumental in awakening our collective consciousness to foster our Filipino identity and take a stand against our oppressor,” he said.
Duterte said Rizal has served as a beacon of valor and solidarity when darkness, tyranny, and injustice prevailed in the country.
“Even in death, his example continues to encourage us as we pursue ways to address the social ills that confront us up to this day,” he said.
“Let this be an opportunity to honor Rizal for shaping our history as a nation. Together, let us embody his patriotism in all our endeavors as we build the society that he envisioned for the Filipino people,” he added.
In his Rizal Day message last year, Duterte urged the public to continue Rizal’s work in building a better Philippines and reflect on his patriotism.
“Let us reflect on his patriotism as we strive to continue his work of building a more united, peaceful, and prosperous Philippines,” he said.
The National Historical Commission of the Philippines said Rizal Day is being commemorated every Dec. 30 to remember the nationalism and martyrdom of Rizal.
The commemoration is highlighted by the raising of the Philippine flag and wreath laying-ceremonies at the Rizal Park in Manila, Rizal Shrine in Calamba City, Laguna and Zamboanga, and Rizal Monument in Baguio City.
Meanwhile, Duterte skipped the commemoration of Rizal’s martyrdom in Davao City yesterday afternoon.
Duterte was supposed to lead the commemoration but he was advised to rest by his family, according to a source from the Presidential Communication Operations Office.
The Chief Executive was represented by presidential daughter and Davao City Mayor Sara Z. Duterte-Carpio.
She led the wreath laying ceremony and delivered the speech of his father. (Argyll Geducos and Armando Fenequito Jr.)