The Department of National Defense (DND) paid tribute to national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, as the country commemorated the 125th anniversary of his martyrdom on Thursday, Dec. 30.

In a statement, DND Secretary Delfin Lorenzana expressed admiration on Rizal’s pursuit of knowledge to help the Philippines fight the colonization of the Spaniards.

“As a pioneer in many scientific fields, Dr. Rizal valued the pursuit of knowledge. He believed that a nation must be enlightened and united to allow it to emerge from a dark period in its history,” Lorenzana said.

The Defense Chief noted that Rizal’s “fierce love” for the Philippines “as manifested in his brilliant and enduring works," continues to "inspire and move our people to action centuries hence.”

In the same way, Lorenzana said the life and legacy of Rizal, who authored world famous anti-Spanish novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, should encourage the Filipinos to brave the odds as “we are reminded of the continuing battles we face as a country, and how we can overcome them with the same devotion and courage as our national hero.”

“May we always remember his ideals and the ultimate sacrifice he made to defend and uphold our nation's dignity,” he said.

“Bagama't nakamit na natin ang ating kalayaan, nawa' y magsilbi pa ring inspirasyon ang kanyang kabayanihan upang pagbutihin natin ang ating mga sarili at maging kabahagi ng pag-unlad ng bayan (Although we already achieved our freedom, his heroism shpuld serve as an inspiration to our countrymen to improve themselves and be part of our nation's progress),” he added.

Lorenzana expressed hope that the Filipinos will “always strive to fulfill our responsibilities as dutiful citizens in the service of our countrymen, just as Dr. Rizal did.”

Rizal, who fought corrupt Spaniard colonizers using his intellect, was executed through firing squad in Bagumbayan or now known as Luneta Park in Manila on Dec. 30, 1896.

This year’s commemoration carried the theme “Rizal: Para sa Agham, Katotohanan, at Buhay.”