28 December 2018, Ottawa – Filipinos in Ottawa gathered on Friday, 28 December 2018, to commemorate Rizal Day in honor of the Philippine hero Dr. Jose Rizal who was executed by Spanish colonial authorities in 1896.

Organized by the Embassy of the Philippines in Canada, the event kicked off with the Rizal Day Message of Ambassador Petronila P. Garcia read by First Secretary and Consul Greg Marie Mariño. A wreath-laying ceremony followed, with First Secretary and Consul Jeffrey Salik setting the wreath at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal on behalf of the Embassy. Dr. Ruby Formoso, representing the Philippine Heritage Foundation of Canada, and Dr. Alfredo Formoso, representing the Knights of Rizal National Capital Region Canada Chapter, also laid bouquets of flowers at the bust.

Mr. Emil “Jhun” Mendoza of Ala Eh! organization sang Freddie Aguilar’s “Bayan Ko” during the program and members of the audience took turns reading Rizal’s “Mi Ultimo Adios” in Spanish, English, and Filipino. The event was capped with Francisco Santiago’s “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” sung by the audience. END.