PH Embassy in Canberra Commemorates 128th Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal's Martyrdom
Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio A. Morales delivers his heartfelt speech on shaping a progressive future for the Philippines during the ceremony commemorating the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom held at the Philippine Embassy in Canberra. (Canberra PE photo)
CANBERRA 06 January 2025 — The Philippine Embassy in Canberra, led by Philippine Ambassador to Australia Antonio A. Morales, marked the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal's martyrdom with a solemn ceremony at the grounds of the Chancery on 27 December 2025. Held in front of the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, the event brought together members of the Knights of Rizal, Kababaihang Rizalista Inc. - Canberra Chapter, and members of the Filipino-Australian community.
In his opening address, Ambassador Morales emphasized the significance of Rizal's life and works in shaping a just, humane, and progressive society. "Rizal's love for the Philippines was boundless. Let us nurture that same love, contributing to nation-building through our talents, resources, and influence. His life reminds us that meaningful change begins within us,” the Ambassador stated.
The commemoration centered on the theme, "Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas" (Rizal in the New Philippines: A Life and Teachings as Our Path), which calls on Filipinos to embody the values Rizal championed as they navigate the challenges and opportunities of a rapidly evolving society.
Sir Norman Kalagayan, Commander of the Knights of Rizal Canberra Chapter, encouraged attendees to apply Rizal's timeless teachings to their daily lives. Meanwhile, Lady Marlene B. Tucker, President of the Kababaihang Rizalista Canberra Chapter, offered profound insights into Rizal's life and legacy, culminating in a poignant reflection on the final moments of his martyrdom.
As part of the ceremony, a wreath and flowers were offered to the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal, symbolizing the Filipino community's reverence for his contributions to the nation's freedom and progress.
The program concluded with Ambassador Morales's call to action: "Ating tugunan ang hamon ni Rizal sa susunod na henerasyon ng mga Pilipino na bigyang buhay ang mga minimithi nating karapatan sa ilalim ng malaya at umuunlad na bansa." (Let us respond to Rizal's challenge to the next generation of Filipinos to bring to life the rights we aspire to achieve in a free and progressive nation.) END
Ambassador Antonio A. Morales, along with Minister and Consul General Aian A. Caringal, led the offering of wreath and flowers at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal during a solemn ceremony commemorating the 128th anniversary of his martyrdom with members of the Filipino-Australian community in Canberra. (Canberra PE photo)
The Philippine Embassy held the commemoration of the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom at the bust of Dr. Rizal in the Embassy grounds. (Canberra PE photo)
Sir Norman Kalagayan (right), Commander of the Knights of Rizal Canberra Chapter, and Lady Marlene B. Tucker (left), President of the Kababaihang Rizalista Canberra Chapter, delivers inspiring speeches during the commemoration ceremony, encouraging attendees to embody Dr. Jose Rizal's timeless teachings in their daily lives. (Canberra PE photo)
Ambassador Antonio A. Morales (5th from right) and Minister and Consul General Aian A. Caringal (6th from right) with the Knights of Rizal Canberra Chapter led by Sir Norman Kalagayan (4th from right). (Canberra PE photo)
Ambassador H.E. Antonio A. Morales (center) and Minister and Consul General Aian A. Caringal (5th from left) with the Kababaihang Rizalista Inc. Canberra Chapter led by Ms. Marlene Tucker (5th from right). (Canberra PE photo)
A delightful spread of Filipino brunch favorites—Beef Tapa, Longganisa, and Chicken Afritada — treats attendees to a taste of home during the fellowship event following the commemoration ceremony. (Canberra PE photo)
For more information, visit https://www.philembassy.org.au or https://www.facebook.com/PHinAustralia/.