Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda Senate PRIB file photo / Joseph Vidal
MANILA, Philippines — In remembering Rizal Day, Senate President Pro Tempore Loren Legarda called on Filipinos to use Dr. Jose Rizal’s ideals to become better citizens.
“Despite Dr. Rizal being martyred 127 years ago, his ideals remain timeless, and we should use that as a springboard to foster our love for our nation and become model citizens,” said Legarda in a statement on Saturday.
“The real way to give homage to one of our foremost heroes is to build upon the foundations that he laid when this archipelago was striving to find its identity — and build upon it for a better understanding of today,” she added.
READ: President’s Rizal Day message to people: Be like our national hero
Apart from using Rizal’s ideals, Filipinos were likewise told by Legarda to be proactive in preserving Filipino heritage.
According to the senator, the country’s national hero was very much ahead of society as he “understood the importance” of Philippine heritage.
READ: Rizal and the enduring faith of his followers, believers
“He recognized the beauty of the country and its people, including the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of Philippine textiles,” she added.
Legarda then emphasized the relevance of Rizal’s ideals, which she said could “unite Filipinos in shared pursuit of progress and prosperity.”