Vice President Sara Duterte appealed to Filipinos to reaffirm their commitment to truth and justice as the country commemorated Rizal Day on Tuesday, marking another year of remembrance for national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.
In her message for the 129th anniversary of Rizal’s heroism, Duterte said the occasion should serve as a moment of reflection on the values that Rizal stood for, particularly moral courage and unity.
“As we remember his sacrifice, may our strength and courage to stand for truth and justice be renewed,” she said in Filipino.
She warned against allowing the principles of wisdom and solidarity to fade, stressing that these values remain essential in addressing the nation’s challenges.
“Let us not allow the spirit of wisdom and unity to die,” she added.
The vice president also emphasized that meaningful and enduring change does not come easily, noting that it is rooted in thoughtful study, ethical conduct, and collective efforts within both communities and institutions.
Referencing Rizal’s works, Duterte said his writings continue to inspire a deep love for the country and a vision of freedom anchored in knowledge.
“Through his writings, Dr. Jose Rizal bequeathed the spirit of fearless love for the nation and the dream of true freedom founded on the light of knowledge,” she said in Filipino.
She further underscored that Rizal’s message goes beyond resistance to colonial rule, pointing instead to the need for internal transformation.
“Rizal’s true lesson is clear: freedom is not only liberation from foreign forces, but also the liberation of our minds and hearts from abuse, division, and evil,” she said.
Rizal Day is observed every December 30 as a national holiday in the Philippines, commemorating the execution of Dr. Jose Rizal by Spanish authorities in 1896 at what is now Rizal Park.
