DID YOU KNOW: Rizal’s 156th birth anniversary

Today, June 19, is the 156th birth anniversary of the national hero of the Philippines, Jose Rizal.

Born in 1861, Rizal’s influential works including his novels “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” sparked the Filipino revolution against the Spaniards.

Because of his novels and other writings, he was exiled to Dapitan in Mindanao and executed on Dec. 30, 1896.

Several streets in Metro Manila were named in his memory. The largest room in Malacañang Palace, which is usually used for large assemblies like the mass oath-takings of public officials, was named Rizal Ceremonial Hall in his honor. —Marielle Medina, Inquirer Research