03 January 2017 – The Philippine Consulate General in New York and the Knights of Rizal-New York Chapter (KoR-NY) commemorated the 120th Death Anniversary of the Philippine National Hero in various ceremonies at the Philippine Center in New York’s Kalayaan Hall on Rizal Day.
Selected members of KoR delivered their reflections and remarks on Rizal’s life and contributions during the program.
The KoR-NY Male Vocal Ensemble serenaded the audience under the direction of KoR member and classical music performer Rogelio Peñaverde.
Seven new members of the KoR-NY were knighted during a ceremony officiated by U.S. Regional Commander Sir Francis Sison, KGOR. Sir Roger Alama, KGCR; Sir Prospero Lim, KGOR; Sir Jose Ramos, KGOR; and Sir Ferdinand Suba, KGOR assisted Sison.
Consul Arma Talbo, one of KoR-NY’s new members, delivered the response on behalf of KoR-NY’s newest batch.
Philippine Consul General to New York Theresa Dizon-de Vega read one of Rizal’s last letters to his family during the program. She offered a commentary on the challenge the life and legacy of Rizal poses for all Filipinos such as “placing others, community, and country above parochial and personal concerns.”
In his welcome remarks, KoR-NY immediate Past President Atty. Ferdinand Suba said that he hopes the program will motivate Filipinos to reflect on the lessons of Rizal’s life.
Incumbent Kor-NY President Sir Michael Dadap closed the program by noting how each Filipino is tasked with the responsibility of keeping Rizal and his legacy relevant to present and future generations. He added that KoR will do its part in making sure that Rizal’s advocacies resonate with all Filipinos and Filipino-Americans.
Guests during the program included Ms. Rose Torres-Javier, great great grandniece of Dr. Rizal; members of the Ladies for Rizal; former Philippine Ambassador to Italy and South Africa, and KoR member Virgilio Reyes; community members; and representatives of other Knights of Rizal chapters in the US Northeast such as the KoR Chapters in New Jersey, Long Island-New York, and Metro-New York. END
