Filipinos in Ottawa Commemorate Rizal Day 2018

PHOTO: Filipinos in Ottawa gathered to honor the Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal on 28 December 2018.

Organized by the Embassy of the Philippines in Canada, the event kicked off with the Rizal Day message of Ambassador to Canada Petronila P. Garcia read by First Secretary and Consul Greg Marie Mariño. A wreath-laying ceremony at the bust of Rizal led by First Secretary and Consul Jeffrey Salik. Dr. Ruby Formoso, representing the Philippine Heritage Foundation of Canada, and Dr. Alfredo Formoso, representing the Knights of Rizal National Capital Region Canada Chapter, also laid bouquets of flowers at the bust.

Mr. Emil “Jhun” Mendoza of Ala Eh! organization sang Freddie Aguilar’s “Bayan Ko” during the program and members of the audience took turns reading Rizal’s “Mi Ultimo Adios” in Spanish, English, and Filipino. The event was capped with Francisco Santiago’s “Pilipinas Kong Mahal” sung by the audience. (Ottawa PE photo)