PRRD urges Pinoys to ‘reflect on legacy’ of Rizal

FILE: President Rodrigo Roa Duterte delivers his speech during the unveiling of the marker for the Mella Hotel Las Piñas located at the C5 Extension in Barangay Pulang Lupa, Las Piñas City on December 13, 2018. REY BANIQUET/PRESIDENTIAL PHOTO

MANILA — President Rodrigo Duterte on Sunday urged Filipinos to reflect on the legacy of Dr. Jose Rizal, as he joined in commemorating the 122nd anniversary of the martyrdom of the country’s national hero.

In his Rizal Day message, Duterte said Rizal’s courageous life has been instrumental “in awakening our collective consciousness to foster our Filipino identity and take a stand against our oppressors.”

“We remember him as a beacon of valor and solidarity at a time when darkness, injustice and tyranny prevailed over our land,” he said.

“Even in death, his example continues to encourage us as we pursue ways to address the social ills that confronts us up to this day,” he added.

Duterte said Rizal’s death anniversary is an opportunity to honor the national hero “for shaping our history as a nation.”

He also called on Filipinos to embody patriotism “in all our endeavors as we build the society that he envisioned for the Filipino people.”