The Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP) commemorated the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of the country’s national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, on Monday, Dec. 30.
AFP chief General Romeo Brawner Jr. led the military contingent that assisted President Ferdinand Marcos Jr. during the traditional wreath-laying ceremony at the Rizal Monument in Manila, following simultaneous flag-raising ceremonies held at historical sites across the country.
Brawner, in a statement, reiterated the AFP’s commitment to uphold Rizal’s ideals.
“As steadfast guardians of peace, committed to our constitutional mandate of protecting the people and securing the state, we draw deep inspiration from Dr. Jose Rizal’s enduring legacy of courage, patriotism, and dedication to progress through just and principled means,” he said.
The military chief said that the AFP continues to be inspired by Rizal’s legacy 128 years after his death.
“Today, 128 years after his martyrdom, we honor his vision of a united and peaceful nation and the sacrifices of our men and women in uniform who embody his values,” Brawner noted.
The 30th of December of every year was decreed to be a day of national mourning by the Philippine Revolutionary Government, led by Emilio Aguinaldo, on December 21, 1898 in honor of Rizal and other victims of the Philippine Revolution.
Rizal’s first monument was erected and unveiled on December 30, 1898 in Daet, Camarines Norte while Act No. 243, (s. 1901) granted the right to use public land at Luneta in Manila to erect a statue of the national hero.
Under Republic Act No. 229 (s. 1948), a committee was created to take charge of the proper celebration of Rizal Day in every municipality and chartered city. Rizal Day is celebrated annually through a flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony.