AS WE COMMEMORATE Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom today, let us – especially the youth – resolve to emulate our national hero’s patriotism as the fate and future of our beloved Philippines rest upon it. The progress and freedom that he fought for are still the very same challenges we face as we continue to strive for a strong, independent nation. Instilling love for country, crucially at an early age, will inculcate the values of discipline and organization, and will impart common sense to the young generation of Filipinos.
Oh yes, Rizal’s enthusiasm to learn and educate himself with skills and expertise not only benefitted his growth as an individual, but most importantly, also contributed to the betterment of the nation and his fellow Filipinos. He never stopped learning because he believed that for a country to be socially and economically progressive, its people must not remain ignorant but empowered through quality education.
For our part, we should develop within ourselves the same fervor Rizal had. There is an inherent creative genius that lies within each and every Filipino. Everyone has the potential to grow, excel and be the pride of the nation. All that is needed is to cultivate these and gain inspiration from the noteworthy contributions of other individuals, such as our national hero.
Filipinos, and more importantly the youth, must respect and preserve the nation’s heritage. Rizal himself had expressed the need to embrace one’s roots. While fluent in several foreign languages, he had always expressed his love for his native tongue. He also recognized the exceptional artistry and craftsmanship of Filipinos and, perhaps not known too many, he was also fond of indigenous Philippine textiles. Many of his works also described the beauty of the Philippines and its people.
An environmental advocate, Rizal was concerned, too, for the environment. During his exile in Dapitan for example, he engaged in farming, planting trees and crops, and showing the local people how to improve agricultural productivity through enhanced methods like irrigation and other scientific practices.
As a tribute to our national hero, we should continue his work of caring for the environment by introducing innovative solutions to issues and problems of our country, especially in light of the biggest threat to humanity and development, which is climate change. As the future of this country, we urge the youth to follow the footsteps and the advocacies of Rizal, not just in the aspect of protecting our rights and sovereignty but also with regard to preserving our environment.
The best way to honor the sacrifices of Rizal is not only to look back at his life and work but emulate these.
