10 June 2013 - Launching festivities in observance of the 115th Anniversary of the Philippine Independence, the Filipino community in Ottawa revisited Philippine history in a lecture delivered by Professor Ambeth Ocampo on June 7 at the Conservatoire de musique de Gatineau.

True to its promise, the lecture "History Comes Alive with Professor Ambeth Ocampo" engrossed the attention of Filipinos and Canadians alike in a deftly-woven story of the life and loves of Dr. Jose Rizal. Hooking his audience with the theme "Queridas ni Rizal: Love and Sex in Philippine History", Professor Ocampo entwined facts with instructive insights that refuted long-held impressions of the national hero by humanizing a paragon of Filipino nationalism.

The lecture went into overtime with Professor Ocampo fielding questions from an audience animated by his perspective on our national narrative. From questions about language to Filipino identity, he reminded the eager audience of the fact that context is especially important in the slippery discipline of history.

"Our take-away this evening is a deeper appreciation of our history through Dr. Ocampo's clarification of myths we learned as pupils of Philippine history. We are further inspired by the good Professor's instruction on our identity as Filipinos and individual potential for heroism," Ambassador Gatan remarked.

On behalf of the Filipino community, Philippine Ambassador Leslie B. Gatan presented a Certificate of Appreciation to Professor Ocampo for his authoritative insights on Philippine history and commendable contributions to the promotion of Philippine culture in Canada.

Professor Ocampo is a multi-awarded Filipino historian, academic, journalist, and author best known for his writings on Dr. Jose Rizal. His lecture in Ottawa was organized by the Philippine Embassy, in partnership with the Philippine Heritage Foundation Canada (PHFC), Eskwela Inc. and the Knights of Rizal - Ottawa Chapter. END