Filipinos told: Be agents of genuine change like Rizal

MANILA – Malacañang on Sunday encouraged Filipinos to get an inspiration from the countryʼs national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, to help them become “agents of genuine change.”

Presidential Spokesperson Salvador Panelo made the call, on the eve of the country’s annual commemoration of the execution of Rizal on Dec. 30, 1896.

“While tomorrow, December 30, marks a mournful day in Philippine history, the Palace is reminded of the fruits of the ultimate sacrifice our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, contributed in the collective memory of the Filipinos: freedom from bondage,” Panelo said in a statement issued a day before the 123rd anniversary of Rizal’s martyrdom.

“May Rizal’s sacrifice push us to be the better versions of ourselves and be agents of genuine change. Happy Rizal Day to all!” he added.

December 30 of every year is declared as regular holiday to allow the whole nation to observe the death anniversary of Rizal.

Rizal, who was convicted of sedition by Spanish court martial, was executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan field, now popularly known as Rizal Park, in Manila on December 30, 1896.

Panelo said Rizal’s passing 123 years ago did not go to waste, as it fueled the “re-awakening of our forefathers to stand up against the excesses or abuses of the colonizers which extended for over three centuries.”

“Although Rizal’s heroism is now only recalled through history books, we celebrate tomorrow as it serves as an inspiration for the modern-day Rizals -- the youth particularly -- to remain steadfast on the challenges of the present times and to become beacons of hope for this motherland,” he said.