128th Rizal Day Celebration in Negros Oriental: Honoring the Legacy of Dr. José Rizal

On December 30, 2024, Negros Oriental joined the rest of the nation in commemorating the 128th anniversary of Dr. José Rizal's martyrdom. The day's events were a fitting tribute to the hero who sacrificed his life for the freedom of the Filipino people. Dumaguete City, the province's capital, hosted a series of activities that brought together local government officials, civic organizations, the youth, and the Knights of Rizal to honor his enduring legacy of patriotism, courage, and love for the Philippines.

The highlight of the celebration took place at the Pantawan Rizal People’s Park along Rizal Boulevard, where a large crowd gathered in front of the towering 8-foot bronze statue of Dr. Rizal. The ceremony began with the raising of the Philippine flag in half mass , followed by a solemn wreath-laying ceremony. Local leaders, including Mayor Felipe Antonio B. Remollo, and Former Bais City Mayor Karen F. Villanueva, who was the guest speaker, paid their respects to the national hero. Villanueva’s speech resonated deeply with those in attendance as she reflected on Rizal's ultimate sacrifice for the Filipino people’s freedom.

Mayor Ipe Remollo, Karen Villanueva guest speaker, Councilor Karissa Tolentino -Maxino and City Administrator Lani Ramon

In her speech, Villanueva urged the populace to preserve the principles Rizal fought for, emphasizing in her address that he died so that the Filipino people might live in freedom. She urged everyone, especially young people, to use greater discernment when selecting leaders who share Dr. Rizal's values, especially when convenience and other distractions could impair judgment. "Dr. Villanueva encouraged the audience to take action for a brighter future by saying, "Rizal spoke out against abuses, corruption, and injustice in his time, and it is up to us to continue his fight in our own ways."

The Rizal Day activities in Negros Oriental was organized by the Order of the knights of Rizal Negros Oriental Area . In addition to the wreath-laying, local officials, along with LTC. Elmar L. Salvador of the Philippine Army, paid tribute to Dr. Rizal's heroic deeds. The event also included a special recognition of newly knighted members of the Knights of Rizal (KOR), including Sir Rene S. Remollo KR, Sir Marner Necifort F. Enot KR, and Sir Emil B. Bandoles KR of the newly chartered Dumaguete City HOJ Chapter, among others.

The Knights of Rizal played a central role in the event, with Sir Rodolfo Jull Locsin KCR, who served as the Master of Ceremonies, ensuring the smooth flow of activities. Special thanks were given to Sir Jull Locsin and his team for their contributions to the success of the event, from the physical arrangements to the program production.

The morning’s commemoration was followed by a fellowship breakfast at the Jordan 2, Bethel Guest House, located along Rizal Ave. There, the newly knighted members of the Dumaguete City Hall of Justice Chapter took their oath in a special ceremony. This moment of camaraderie and reflection was a reminder of the shared commitment to honor Dr. Rizal's ideals of justice and service.

Breakfast fellowship with guest speaker Atty Dio C. Remollo

On a momentous occasion in Tanjay City, Sir Danny Berghmans from Belgium graced the Special Conferment Ceremony, a prestigious event that honored Sir Dr. Gerard Jude Castil Bumanglag, KGOR, DSS, Chapter Commander of KOR Tanjay City. He was awarded the Fourth Degree Rank National Medal of Honor in the Knights of Rizal. The ceremony, held with great reverence, was followed by a fellowship lunch and a floral offering at the Tanjay Rizal Park, symbolizing deep respect for the national hero, Dr. José Rizal. The gathering celebrated both the honor bestowed and the enduring legacy of Rizal's ideals.

Special Conferment Ceremony, honored Sir Dr. Gerard Jude Castil Bumanglag, KGOR, DSS, Chapter Commander of KOR Tanjay WITH Sir Penn T. Larena KGOR, Sir Rafael Crescencio C.Tan Jr.,KGOR

In addition to the solemn ceremonies, another important activity took place—the 4th edition of the Dr. Jose Rizal Quiz Bee Competition. Held in Bayawan City, the competition saw Jessel Christine J. Tumimbang from Brgy. Pagatban emerge as the champion. She was followed by Shecainah V. Calamba from Brgy. Banga, who took second place, and John Rex F. Feril from Brgy. Malabugas, who secured third. The quiz bee served as a fitting tribute to Dr. Rizal’s intellectual legacy, encouraging young Filipinos to engage with and learn more about the life and works of the national hero.

Rizal Singing Idol 2024 winners with KOR -Bayawan City Chapter

The 128th Rizal Day celebration in Negros Oriental was a powerful reminder of Dr. José Rizal’s influence on Filipino history. His values of courage, patriotism, and intellectual engagement continue to inspire citizens, especially the youth, to actively participate in shaping a better and more just society. As the community came together to honor his memory, it was clear that Dr. Rizal’s spirit of service, integrity, and love for the nation lives on in every Filipino.