The City Government in collaboration with the Order of the Knights of Rizal -ZC Chapter, and the Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines Region IX ZamBaSulTa spearheads the 128th Commemoration of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal Monday, December 30 at Plaza Rizal fronting City Hall.
Themed “Rizalism: The Emergence of National Economic Recovery,” the annual Rizal Day celebration pays tribute to the enduring legacy of the national hero, whose martyrdom ignited the fight for Philippine independence. The event began with a flag-raising ceremony followed by the traditional wreath-laying at the Rizal monument.
In his address, Mayor John Dalipe underscored the relevance of Rizal’s ideals in the modern era. “This morning, we stand together on sacred ground, united in solemn reflection as we honor the life and legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal —a man whose words and sacrifice awakened the heart of a nation and charted the path toward the freedom we hold dear. Rizal’s love for the Philippines transcended the ordinary. It was a love that knew no boundaries; a devotion so pure and selfless that he gave his life for it.”
Mayor Dalipe also called on the community to embody Rizal’s vision by fostering economic recovery and resilience. “Just as Rizal dreamt of a better future for the Filipinos of his time, we must embody the same dream today by striving for economic recovery, progress, and resilience.”
“Together, let us rise as one resilient and united people. Let us emerge stronger, not just economically but also politically and culturally, guided always by the prime example of our national hero God Jose Rizal,” the mayor added.
Present during the event were Councilor Jordan Evangelista, Commander for Western Mindanao Command MGEN Antonio Nafarrete represented by Deputy Commander for External Defense for Operations Brigadier General Aldrin Anani, Area Commander for Western Mindanao Domingo Falcasantos, Order of the Knights of Rizal -ZC Chapter, and Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines Region IX ZamBaSulTa DDGM Atty. David Oliver Kong, OIC Police City Director PCOL Kimberly Molitas represented by PltCol Areston Limos, and heads and representatives of different lying agencies and sectors. (Bernadeth Lazaro)
(Source: City Government of Zamboanga Facebook page)