30 December 2012 - The Philippine Embassy led by H.E. Amb. Leslie B. Gatan in cooperation with the Philippine Heritage Foundation of Canada (PHFC), the Knights of Rizal Ottawa Chapter and the Kababaihang Rizalista of Ottawa, commemorates the 116th Rizal Day at the Gatineau City Hall and the Philippine Ambassador's residence in Ottawa.

During the Wreath Laying and Flower Offering ceremony at the bust of the Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, H.E. Amb. Leslie B. Gatan gave a short message highlighting the positive trend in Philippine economy and emphasizing the importance of Philippine diaspora and migration which Filipinos play around the world especially in Canada.Amb.Gatan also acknowleged the increased in the number of registrants of Filipinos in Canada in the Overseas Absentee Voting in May 2013. The Ambassador also promoted the 2013 Ambassadors, Consuls General, Tourism Directors Tour (ACGTDT) to the Philippines and encouraged a bigger participation from Canada, stressing that every tourist arrival in the Philippines generates employment.

Dr. Ruby Formoso, President of the Philippine heritage Foundation of Canada on her remarks emphasized the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal and recited a short poem by the national hero.

Included in the commemoration is the reading of Dr. Rizal's HulingPaalam, PanunumpasaWatawat and group of singing of Rizal Song.

Following the Wreath Laying ceremony the Ambassador and Mrs. Leslie B. Gatan hosted a reception at the Ambassador's residence in Ottawa.