Defense Secretary Gilberto "Gibo" Teodoro Jr. reminded Filipinos to remain united and protect the country's hard-earned peace and independence in a message commemorating Rizal Day today.

"Today, may every Filipino be reminded of our shared duty and responsibility to uphold our sovereignty and sovereign rights as citizens of this nation," Teodoro said in his message.

He underscored the enormous contributions of Dr. Jose Rizal to the country's fight against invaders and conquerors.

"Dr. Jose Rizal was a visionary and patriot who chose to fight for our nation's freedom through words and ideals. His courage and sacrifice inspired others to join the fight for our independence," he said.

Teodoro urged Filipinos to keep the "flame of love" in their hearts and minds and "uphold the dignity and courage" of those heroes who had selflessly fought for the country's independence many years ago.

"Let us embody our national hero's unwavering love for the Philippines and remain united in protecting our hard-earned peace and independence," he added.

Republic Act 229, signed into law by former President Elpidio Quirino on  9 June 1948, required flags across the country be flown at half-staff throughout the day every 30th of December to commemorate Rizal's life and works as the national hero.

Rizal, a doctor, artist, and novelist born in  Calamba, Laguna on 19 June 1861, was credited with inspiring the revolution against the Spanish colonists.

His famous novel "Noli me Tangere," or "Touch Me Not," published in 1887, exposed and condemned the Spaniards' corrupt rule in the Philippines.

Many historians agree that the ideas he raised in "Noli Me Tangere" and his other novel, "El Filibusterismo," or "Reign of Greed," were the linchpin for the revolution against Spain.

Rizal was executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan field, today known as the Luneta, on 30 December 1896, shortly before the Spanish colonial period ended.