Mabini feted in Ottawa ceremony

Joining celebrations around the world, the Philippine Embassy led the Filipino communities under its jurisdiction in marking the 150th birth anniversary of Apolinario Mabini on July 23 at the newly-opened Philippine showroom in downtown Ottawa.

Some community representatives travelled to the Canadian capital from as far as Montreal, Quebec to view the exhibit mounted by the embassy for the occasion and to participate in a program that reacquainted Filipinos abroad with the life and legacies of the revolutionary hero.

In his opening remarks, Chargéd’Affaires Eric Gerardo E. Tamayo walked the guests through the life of the “Brains of the Revolution”, from his humble origins in Tanauan, Batangas to his rise to the top of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s cabinet.

Likening Mabini to José Rizal in terms of exceptional intellect, principles and patriotic fervor, CDA Tamayo paid tribute to the Sublime Paralytic for overcoming his physical handicap and social prejudices attending his situation.

Members of the community brought to life Mabini’s words with the reading of Dekalogo which stirred admiration for the man and his enduring legacies for the country’s foreign relations, civil service and legislation

CDA Tamayo seized the occasion to call on Filipinos in Canada to register as overseas voters in the national elections in 2016 and urged them to exercise their rights as Philippine citizens. “We have a chance to reconnect in a meaningful way, and that is by active participation in the coming electoral process. I invite those who can do so, to register to vote – those who are dual citizens, permanent residents, and temporary workers,” he said.

Recalling that Mabini lived a harsh and melancholy life in exile out of loyalty to the country, CDA Tamayo noted that Mabini’s works reverberate across generations and encouraged the audience to honor him and other heroes by affirming their commitment to and love for the motherland in their daily lives.

“Some of our guests came today to revisit a part of our history that has faded from their memories of textbook heroes. On his 150th birth anniversary, we managed to bring into sharper focus Mabini’s substantial role in Philippine history and the weight of his influence on Philippine revolutionary politics. For the men and women of the Department of Foreign Affairs, he is a towering figure that inspires excellence in public service with a timeless code of conduct to guide all citizens in their civic duties,” CDA Tamayo said.