Legarda honors Dr. Jose Rizal, urges Filipinos to live by his ideals

As the nation commemorates the 164th birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, Senator Loren Legarda called on every Filipino to draw from the national hero’s life and legacy as a model of moral courage, deep social consciousness, and enduring compassion for the Filipino people.

“More than being revolutionary through his writings, Rizal was a reformist who confronted the challenges of his time with clarity, truth, and dignity. His life serves as a powerful reminder that we, Filipinos, must speak out against injustice, be the voice of the vulnerable, and act with conscience, especially when it is most difficult,” Legarda said.

The four-term senator emphasized that Rizal’s story remains relevant in today’s landscape of misinformation, social inequity, and environmental degradation.

“Rizal was a thinker, a visionary, and a changemaker. He understood that real freedom is grounded in a sense of responsibility – to one another, to our community, and future generations,” Legarda said.

As a long-time champion of education, climate action, heritage preservation, and environmental protection, Legarda highlighted Rizal’s contributions as an early advocate for the Filipino identity rooted in culture and ecology.

“Rizal was deeply connected to our people, culture, and natural resources. His writings, his love for native flora and fauna, and his documentation of our culture reflect that nationhood is rooted in our values, heritage, and a strong sense of place,” she said.

The Senator encouraged schools and communities to go beyond usual thinking to cultivate deeper engagement and critical appreciation of Rizal’s works and ideas.

“Let this be more than just a mere tribute. Let this be a call to reflect: What are we doing at present to uphold the freedom our national hero envisioned? How do we contribute to a just, inclusive, and equitable society for every Filipino?”

Rizal believed in the power of the youth as present movers of change.

“He wrote, questioned, and stood up to the status quo at a young age. His example reminds us that age is not a hindrance to influence, and that young voices can shape the course of history.” Legarda said.

Legarda concluded her message by urging Filipinos to live out Rizal’s example in everyday acts, in holding leaders accountable, in caring for the environment, in valuing education, and in defending truth. The best tribute to Rizal is to keep his spirit alive in every young Filipino who dares to dream, serve, and make a positive impact. In this light, the Senator called on young Filipinos to be the Rizal of their time, to be engaged and principled, both in thoughts and actions.

“The real tribute to Rizal is choosing a life of purpose, courage, and integrity, no matter the odds. The youth are the hope of the nation, as well as its strength and future,” she said. (30)