For Bohol folk, quake volunteers are ‘Rizals’

BOHOL wasted no time getting back on its feet after the Oct. 15 7.2-magnitude quake, with tourism quickly rebounding as shown by visitors flocking to the Chocolate Hills Adventure Park just days after the quake. TONEE DESPOJO/CEBU DAILY NEWS

TAGBILARAN CITY—Jose Rizal came to life in Bohol in the countless of volunteers who helped the province get back on its feet after a 7.2-magnitude earthquake destroyed homes, infrastructure and century-old churches on Oct. 15, according to the province’s officials.

“Dr. Jose Rizal gave his life for the people. Andres Bonifacio gave his life for the people. Francisco Dagohoy gave his life and led the longest revolt of the province of Bohol,” said Gov. Edgar Chatto, in a speech during the celebration of Rizal Day here.

“All these people sacrificed for the people. But in present-day realities in Bohol, in the face of many challenges and calamities, Rizal Day is the best day to thank all the men and women who came to be with us and to support us, help us and hold our hands in the most difficult time,” the governor said.

To the people of Bohol, everyone who came to their aid during and after the quake was “Jose Rizal,” a hero.

Chatto said Rizal’s sacrifice was replicated by the countless who helped the province rise from the quake’s rubble.

“We saw the real Rizals working together, holding our hands together and inspiring each other during the lowest times of our lives,” he said.

Chatto was joined in the commemoration by provincial officials, including Tagbilaran City Mayor John Geesnell “Baba” Yap, top police and military officials, teachers and other school officials.

They gathered at Rizal Park past 8 a.m. after hearing Mass.