Ilonggos should not consider Dr. Jose P. Rizal as a hero of the past but a model of what they aspire for their country – steadfast in its principles, courageous in speaking the truth, and tireless in serving for a free and peaceful country.
This was underscored by Brig. Gen. Josefino Ligan, director of the Police Regional Office 6 (Western Visayas), during the commemoration of the 129th death anniversary of the national hero at Plaza Libertad in Iloilo City on Tuesday, Dec. 30.
“Nawa’y maging inspirasyon sa atin ang kanyang buhay upang tayo ay maging mas mabubuting mamamayan, mas tapat na lingkod-bayan, at mas makataong indibidwal. At sa ating sariling paraan, ipagpatuloy natin ang hindi pa tapos na laban na kanyang sinimulan – ang ipagtanggol ng kalayaan, pangalagaan ang kapayapaan, at paglingkuran ang sambayanang Pilipino nang may dangal at puso,” he said.
Meanwhile, Iloilo City Mayor Raisa Treñas said the event was not only to remember Rizal, but an occasion to “reflect on the kind of nation we continue to build because of him.”
“As we get older, we realize that Rizal’s greatest lesson is not about what he achieved, but how he chose to serve his country, how he spoke when it was safer to stay silent, and how he believed, with all his heart, that we, Filipinos, deserved a better future,” she said.
As the country faces challenges, Treñas said, the national hero’s life and work are reminders that “change comes with a strong desire for accountability.”
The theme “Rizal: Sa Pagbangon ng mga Mamamayan, Aral at Diwa Mo ang Tunay na Gabay,” is a call to reflect on the current situation, she said.
“May this commemoration encourage us to rise above, to continue the work that Dr. Jose Rizal began, and work together for a better Iloilo City and a better Philippines,” she added.
The occasion began with a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony, gun salute, taps and floral offering before the Rizal statue at Plaza Libertad. (PNA)
