RIZAL AT 165: LEADERS HONOR NATIONAL HERO’S LEGACY

GOVERNMENT leaders, local officials, and residents gathered at Bahay ni Rizal in Calamba City, Laguna on June 19, 2026 to commemorate the 165th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, celebrating the life and legacy of the country’s national hero while encouraging Filipinos to uphold his ideals of courage, patriotism, and service.

The celebration was attended by Sen. JV Ejercito, Laguna Gov. Sol Aragones, Congresswoman Charisse Hernandez, Calamba City Mayor Ross Rizal, members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, provincial board members, department heads, and other local government officials who joined residents in honoring the hero whose birthplace remains a symbol of Filipino pride and identity.

 In her message, Gov. Sol Aragones highlighted the qualities that made Rizal an enduring inspiration to generations of Filipinos. She described the national hero as a man of intelligence, compassion, and courage whose life demonstrated a deep commitment to serving others and improving society.

The governor noted that Rizal’s humanitarian work as a physician and his ability to speak several languages reflected his well-rounded character and dedication to nation building. Aragones also emphasized that bravery is not merely about facing danger but about standing for what is right.

“Ang pagiging matapang ay ang pagpili ng dapat na laban, paglaban sa katotohanan at kahirapan,” she said.

She further underscored the significance of commemorating Rizal’s birthday in his hometown, reminding attendees that “Nandito mismo sa Calamba ang dugong bayani.”

Senator JV Ejercito stressed the importance of preserving the nation’s heritage and learning from the sacrifices of past heroes.

“Lover din po ako ng history,” he shared, emphasizing that understanding the country’s history strengthens national identity and civic responsibility. As part of his continuing support for Laguna,

Ejercito also announced a P100-million commitment to help strengthen healthcare services in the province, including support for the planned Laguna Mega Clinic, a flagship healthcare project of the Provincial Government aimed at expanding access to quality and affordable medical services for Lagunenses.

The senator noted that the first Philippine Revolution was inspired in large part by Rizal’s writings and ideals, which awakened the Filipino people’s desire for freedom and reform. He encouraged citizens to remain active participants in nation-building, saying,

“Kung pwede tayong kumilos, kung pwede tayong may magawa para sa ating bayan, tayo po ay kumilos,” and urged Filipinos to “tindigan ang tama, tindigan ang prinsipyo” amid today’s challenges.

Meanwhile, Congresswoman Charisse Hernandez reminded the public that Rizal’s life remains a valuable lesson on the power of individual action. She encouraged Filipinos to contribute to positive change in their communities, emphasizing that “No one is too small to do great things.”

According to Hernandez, Rizal’s example demonstrates how dedication, integrity, and service can leave a lasting impact on society.

Mayor Ross Rizal also encouraged residents to reflect on the life and teachings of the national hero, noting that Rizal’s legacy continues to inspire Filipinos to become responsible citizens and active contributors to national development.

He emphasized that Rizal’s story serves as a reminder that meaningful change begins with a genuine commitment to serving others and doing what is right.

The commemoration served not only as a tribute to the country’s foremost hero but also as a call for Filipinos to continue embodying the values that Rizal championed. Through messages of courage, service, leadership, and patriotism, the event reaffirmed that Rizal’s legacy remains a guiding force for nation building more than a century after his birth.