Pasig City commemorates Rizal's 129th death anniversary
(Mayor Vico Sotto facebook page)
Pasig City Mayor Vico Sotto led the commemoration of the 129th death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal at Plaza Rizal in Pasig City on Tuesday, Dec. 30.
In a social media post, Mayor Vico Sotto humorously noted, “Akala ko last na yung kahapon, may last last event pa nga pala… RIZAL DAY,”
While a photo from the event read, “Hindi po ako galit tuwing Rizal Day ha, sadyang nakakasilaw lang talaga sa puwesto namin," the light tone brought smiles and reflected the city’s friendly approach to commemorating the day.
During his speech, Mayor Vico reminded attendees that Rizal is often a familiar figure in daily life — from passing by his monuments, to seeing him on the one-peso coin, and learning a little about him in school.
“Si Jose Rizal, pangkaraniwan nating nakikita. Araw-araw nadadaanan natin ang plaza, nasa piso siya, pinag-aaralan sa eskwelahan (Jose Rizal, we see him often. Every day we pass by the plaza, he is in the peso, he is being studied in school)” the mayor said.
“Minsan nagiging pangkaraniwan na lang, kaya nga may bantayog, kaya nga may monumento — para maalala natin siya, mabigyan ng parangal at pugay ang ating bayani (Sometimes it just becomes commonplace, that's why there's a statue, that's why there's a monument — so we can remember him, honor and pay tribute to our hero)," he added.
He added that while Rizal may be visible everywhere, the purpose of Rizal Day is to inspire Filipinos to reflect on his works, example, and sacrifices.
The event served as a gentle reminder that Rizal’s legacy is not just in monuments and coins, but in the values and inspiration he continues to provide — even in the simplest of everyday moments.