29 December 2023, CANBERRA – In commemoration of the 127th Anniversary of the Martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, Philippine Ambassador to Australia H.E. Ma. Hellen De La Vega led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony on 28 December 2023 in front of Dr. Rizal’s bust at the Embassy grounds. The theme of the 127th commemoration is “Rizal: Pundasyon ng Kahapon, Isinasabuhay Ngayon” (Rizal: Foundation of the Past, Living Today).

Officers and members of the Knights of Rizal (KOR) headed by Sir Ariel Pattugalan, Deputy Commander of Canberra Chapter, and the Kababaihang Rizalista (KRI) Canberra Chapter led by its President, Ms. Marlene Tucker, and leaders of Filipino communities attended the commemoration. Hon. David Smith MP, Federal Member for Bean, also graced the occasion.

In her remarks, Ambassador De La Vega highlighted the dedication of Dr. Rizal in rising above and facing adversity, and exposing the abuses and injustices of his time while inspiring others to take heart and contribute to the growing struggle for self-determination. She conveyed her appreciation to the KOR and KRI for dedicated love of country and in actively engaging the community in reflecting on the enduring values and lessons from the life and sacrifices of Dr. Rizal. -End-