07 January 2015 - For the first time in Turkey, a solemn wreath-laying ceremony was conducted to commemorate the 118th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal at the garden of the Philippine Embassy in Ankara on December 30, 2014.
Philippine Ambassador to Turkey Maria Rowena Mendoza Sanchez and spouse Mr. Mario Sanchez led the ceremony with all the Embassy personnel and their families. The ceremony was preceded with the singing of the Philippine National Anthem and reciting the “Panunumpa ng Katapatan sa Watawat ng Pilipinas” led by Mr. Cristopher Baguya.
Ambassador Sanchez, in her speech, reminded her team and their respective families to always exemplify in their lives this year’s Rizal Day theme which is “Dunong at Pusong Pilipino.” Ambassador Sanchez’ remarks were followed by the reading of the Life of Dr. Jose Rizal by 14-year old John Rhey Santa Agata. END