On Rizal Day, President Marcos encouraged the nation to be bold enough to be catalysts of change and to believe that they can.
In his message on Monday, Dec. 30, Marcos told Filipinos that Rizal has shown "true change can begin within us," urging them to believe that they can contribute to the country's progress no matter their status in life.
"Truly, it is through Dr. Rizal's works that one can realize that true change can begin within us, especially when we stand firm on the issues that we face today," Marcos said on the 128th anniversary of Rizal's martyrdom.
"Let us be bold enough to be catalysts of change and hold on to the belief that each of us can contribute to the beloved Philippines that stands on the pillars of solidarity and progress," Marcos added.
The President encouraged Filipinos to make decisions that will echo Rizal's resolve whether in service to the community, pursuit of knowledge, or in uplifting the marginalized.
He also called on the citizenry to look back in pride and embody all the things Rizal cherished—love of country, dedication to the truth, and commitment to the betterment of the people.
He further said that the Rizal's vision even after a century remains.
"Since his ultimate sacrifice in 1896, Dr. José Rizal's vision of a just and forward-thinking society is no less alive today than it was more than a century ago," Marcos said.
"As we remember his noble works and honorable life, let us take to heart his words and ideals that awakened the consciousness of our forebears and stirred a national movement for freedom," he added.