PR-160-2024
27 December 2024, Ottawa - The Embassy of the Philippines in Canada, in partnership with the Knights of Rizal (KOR) Gatineau Chapter, commemorated the 128th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal in solemn rites held at the Embassy Chancery on 27 December 2024.
The event commenced with the parade of knights and wreath-laying ceremony at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal led by Chargé d’Affaires, a.i. (CDA) Myca Magnolia Fischer and KOR Gatineau Chapter Commander Sir Dax Morfe, followed by the singing of the Philippine National Anthem.
Mr. Julius Abad, Knight Grand Officer of Rizal, and Area 2 Chapter Commander of the Eastern Canada Region delivered a welcome address.
In her message, CDA Fischer underscored that this year’s theme “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas” (Rizal in the New Philippines: Life and Teachings, as our Guide), invites reflection on how Rizal's lessons still resonate today. His teachings on civic duty, moral integrity, social awareness, and critical thinking remain crucial in combating misinformation and moral confusion in today's world.
This year’s Rizal Day commemoration timely caps the celebration of the 75th anniversary of Philippines-Canada diplomatic relations, reminding Filipinos in Canada to increase their visibility and active participation in the country’s political, economic, and social spheres. CDA Fischer reminded the guests, “As we honor Rizal, let us also renew our commitment to the ideals he championed and walk the same path as Rizal, one 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 were presented by KOR member Mr. Sean Brazeau. “Among many revolutionaries, some even would question whether he is himself directly a revolutionary. But regardless of that principle, he understood the importance of a pragmatic engagement with the realities on the ground in order to achieve the ultimate goal of an enlightened and free people. And at the end of the day, that's something that we have to treasure. As somebody looking today, as well as a Canadian, and the struggles that we face here, as well as struggles across the world from the West Philippine Sea to the Middle East and far beyond, I think we have to engage with pragmatism and realism, but also a dedication to principles and our core values. So in commemorating the 128th passing of Dr. Rizal, I would ask that each and every one here think what we can each do to better follow his legacy and his way of doing things,” shared by Mr. Brazeau.
The ceremony continued through the chorus singing of “Bayan Ko”. KOR Chapter Commander Dax Morfe in his closing remarks, “We commemorate the life and ultimate sacrifice of Dr. Jose Rizal. His smarty talk was not merely an act of defiance against colonial oppression, but a testament to the profound power of choice. The power of choice is a gift, a responsibility and an opportunity. It is the power to shape our own 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 talent, our actions to build a just and equitable society.” Mr. Morfe added, “Let us be inspired by Rizal's unwavering courage and commitment to his ideals. Let us choose to live with purpose, to make a difference, and to leave a legacy that will inspire the generation to come.”
The event was concluded by a salu-salo hosted by the members of KOR Gatineau Chapter. END
