PH EMBASSY IN NAIROBI COMMEMORATES 127th ANNIVERSARY OF DR. JOSE RIZAL’S MARTYRDOM
Chargé d’affaires, a.i. Maria Rosanna O. Josue delivers her brief message on the commemoration of the 127th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom.
NAIROBI, 22 December 2023 – The Philippine Embassy in Nairobi commemorated the 127th anniversary of the patriotism and martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal through a simple ceremony held at the chancery lobby on 21 December 2023.
This year's theme, "Rizal: Pundasyon ng Kahapon, Isinasabuhay Ngayon" (Rizal: Foundation of the Past, Living Today), inspired reflections on how Dr. Rizal's principles and values remain relevant in today's society. Chargé d’affaires, a.i. Maria Rosanna O. Josue, in her brief message, emphasized the significance of Rizal Day as a time to embrace his legacy not just in remembrance, but also in action. She added that it is also a call to all Filipinos to embody the virtues Dr. Rizal advocated for – courage, compassion, and an unwavering commitment to the greater good.
Earlier in the month, Ambassador Marie Charlotte G. Tang, during her recent visit to Kigali, Rwanda, presented Rwandan Foreign Minister Vincent Biruta with an English-translated copy of El Filibusterismo. This novel, written by Dr. Rizal, is known for its stark depiction of social injustices and corruption in the Philippines during the Spanish colonial rule and became instrumental in igniting the Philippine revolution and national awakening of the people.
In 1898, General Emilio Aguinaldo declared December 30th, the anniversary of Dr. Rizal's execution by firing squad in 1896 in Bagumbayan, Manila, as a national day of mourning. This day pays tribute to Dr. Rizal and other heroes who fought Spanish colonialism for three centuries. During the American era, the Philippine Commission enacted Act No. 345, making December 30th an official holiday. Since then, Filipinos have yearly celebrated Rizal Day, honoring the country's national hero. END
On 05 December 2023, Ambassador Marie Charlotte G. Tang presents Rwandan Foreign Minister with an English-translated copy of El Filibusterismo, one of Dr. Jose Rizal’s most famous works.
Nairobi PE personnel conduct a flag-raising ceremony on the observance of Rizal Day 2023.
Nairobi PE officers and staff lay flowers at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal.
