Duterte to Filipinos: Let us embody Rizal’s patriotism

MANILA, Philippines—As the country marks the 122nd anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom, President Rodrigo Duterte called on the Filipinos to embody his patriotism in building a nation the national hero had envisioned.

“Let this be an opportunity to honor Rizal for shaping our history as a nation. Together, let us embody his patriotism in all our endeavors as we build the society that he envisioned for the Filipino people,” Duterte said Sunday in his Rizal Day message.

Up to this day, Duterte said Rizal continues to encourage Filipinos to “pursue ways to address the social ills” that we confront today.

He also noted that Rizal’s life and works have been instrumental in building our national identity as a Filipino.

“Today marks an auspicious occasion to reflect on the legacy of our national hero. Rizal’s courageous life and inspiring works have been instrumental in awakening our collective consciousness to foster our Filipino identity and take a stand against our oppressors,” he said.

“We remember him as a beacon of valor and solidarity at a time when darkness, injustice and tyranny prevailed over our land. Even in death, his example continues to encourage us as we pursue ways to address the social ills that confront us up to this day,” he added.

Duterte is set to lead the flag-rasing and wreath-laying ceremony for Rizal’s martydom on Sunday afternoon in Davao City’s Rizal Park.

December 30 is a regular holiday in the country to commemorate Rizal’s patriotism.

It was on this day in 1896 that Rizal was executed by the Spaniards who occupied the country for more than three centuries.