13 January 2014 - The 117th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal was commemorated at the Philippine Embassy in Ankara on 29 December 2013.
Embassy personnel and members of the Filipino community attended the event.
Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez spoke of the importance of the life and martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal to the country and highlighted the theme of this year’s commemoration “Rizal: Inspirasyon, Noon, Ngayon at Bukas.”
Cultural Officer Eunice Trinidad presented via slideshow a brief biography of the hero. It was Three students, Ms. Carlwina Victoria Neri, Ms. Melissa Joy Aguilera and Mr. John Rhey Santa Agata, also read some of Dr. Rizal’s poems. Finance Officer Cristopher Baguya, recited "Ang Aking Huling Paalam." The audience likewise viewed the documentary film, "Pluma: Si Rizal, Ang Dakilang Manunulat.”
The Ankara Filipino community expressed their appreciation and stated that they were deeply inspired by the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal. “Napakagandang alalahanin natin ang buhay ni Dr. Rizal upang maging inspirasyon natin siya sa lahat nang ating ginagawa at habang tayo ay nagtatrabaho dito sa Ankara”, said by Ms. Roselyn G. Andres. END