Accolades for Rizal poured on Dec. 30
IT was another day of recalling the heroism of Dr. Jose P. Rizal in Dagupan City during the annual observance of Rizal’s 120th martyrdom.
Retired SPO4 Dionisio Bolor, past Grand Knight of Rizal 6303Rizal highlighted the rarity of Rizal as the Filipino known not only for his character but for his intellect, having started reading books at age five.
He pointed out this out that in addition to being a physician, a writer, a painter, a sportsman, an educator, an economist, a traveler, he was a linquist who spoke 22 different languages.
His testimony added to the various impressions on the life of Rizal last December 30.
City officials and members of the members of the Knights of Rizal release the white balloons at the end of the program.
Mayor Belen Fernandez extolled the national hero’s abbreviated life “as a hero, an icon and a perfect example on how to be a Filipino”.
“We are always gathered here the same day every year because we need to constantly remind ourselves that we are all his heirs to a freedom that we enjoy today.”
In her speech read by City Administrator Atty. Farah Decano, she said history and Filipiniana sections in our libraries lay bare all information about who Rizal was, being extremely and diversely talented, well-travelled, an expert in 22 languages, and was nothing less of a genius.
She reminded the city that Rizal led the Philippine revolution through his writings mainly the Noli Me Tangere, published in Berlin; and El Filibusterismo, novel satires exposing and criticizing Spanish clergy.
“I stand here today fancying the thought that not only does the entire country honor him at the precise moment that I speak today, but this honor is replicated all over the world — in the United States, in Berlin, in Riyadh, in Geneva, in Japan, in Mexico.
“With the might of his ideas and writings,” she said, “Rizal awakened and moved our ancestors towards reclaiming Filipino freedom and dignity. It is heartwarming to note that Rizal also inspired nationalist ideas even in Mexico.”
All these, she said, show how he was deeply respected and admired by so many people around the world.
Here in Dagupan, we are laying the cornerstones for new school buildings and classrooms and special facilities in many public schools throughout the city.
She said only accomplishing projects and activities for residents like building schools and classrooms, multipurpose gymnasiums in Carael, Bonuan, Dagupan City National High School, East Central Elementary School, are the best ways to perpetuate and honor Rizal.
Dr. Lourdes Servito, assistant city schools superintendent, added that although already a genius, Rizal never stopped reading and continued in his search for more knowledge.
The celebration was capped by the flying of balloons and the singing of patriotic songs. (Leonardo Micua)
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