15 September 2014 - The Order of the Knights of Rizal New York (KORNY) celebrated their brotherhood and membership with a conferment ceremony held at the Philippine Center Gallery Lobby on September 3.
The evening started with the knighting ceremony presided by the Supreme Commander himself, Mr. Jeremias Singson, who was visiting from the Philippines. Fourteen (14) new knights were dubbed with the sword and taken in to the KORNY including PAFCOM Grand Marshall Dr. Edgar Lerias, Rev. Fr. Patrick Longalong, and Deputy Consul General Zaldy Patron, who conveyed his Acceptance of Knighthood into the Order in behalf of his new Brother Knights.
Philippine Consul General Sir Mario De Leon took the podium afterwards, to deliver his congratulatory remarks to his compatriots. He noted the growth of the New York chapter of KOR, having introduced 10 new members in June, and 14 more men after barely three months. He emphasized that it is a privilege to be chosen as a follower and propagator of the philosophies of Dr. Rizal, and hoped that the members remain true to the society’s objectives. He gave his compliments to the awardees of the Lifetime Awards and the knights who were elevated to 2nd degree knighthood, and encouraged his brother knights to always work towards a legacy worthy to be dignified by generations to come.
Supreme Commander Jeremias Singson was called to the stage next, and addressed the audience as the keynote speaker. He gave a compelling speech on Rizal’s impact on the Philippine society today. He expressed concern on the Rizal Monument’s vista in Luneta Park being ruined because of the construction of Torre De Manila and sought the support of his brother knights in campaigning for the serenity of our national hero’s tombstone. END