President Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. led the commemoration of the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal in the City of Manila on Monday.

In his message, Marcos said Rizal’s legacy continues to inspire generations since his ultimate sacrifice in 1896.

“Dr. Jose Rizal's vision of a just and forward-thinking society is no less alive today than it was more than a century ago,” he said.

“As we remember his noble works and honorable life, let us take to heart his words and ideals that awakened the consciousness of our forebears and stirred a national movement for freedom,” he added.

He also called on Filipinos to “look back in pride and embody” the values Rizal cherished, such as love of country, dedication to the truth, and commitment to the betterment of the Filipino people.

“Truly, it is through Dr. Rizal's works that one can realize that true change can begin within us, especially when we stand firm on the issues that we face today. Let us be bold enough to be catalysts of change and hold on to the belief that each of us can contribute to the beloved Philippines that stands on the pillars of solidarity and progress,” Marcos said.

The Chief Executive also encouraged the public to make decisions that echo Rizal’s resolve, “whether in service to our communities, in the pursuit of knowledge, or in uplifting the marginalized.”

“May we rise as a nation, ever unyielding, in our shared quest for a brighter and stronger Bagong Pilipinas that we can be proud of,” Marcos said.

Inclement weather briefly affected the solemn event but cleared just as Marcos arrived at 7:00 a.m.

The President was accompanied by First Lady Liza Araneta-Marcos, and their sons: Ilocos Norte 1st District Representative Sandro, Simon, and Vincent.

Executive Secretary Lucas Bersamin, National Historical Commission of the Philippines Chair Regalado Jose Jr., and Manila Vice Mayor Yul Servo Nieto were also present.

On 30 December 1896, Dr. Rizal was executed by firing squad for the crime of rebellion. He was instrumental in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish occupation through his novels Noli Me Tangere, written in 1887, and El Filibusterismo, written in 1891.

The two works depicted the harsh realities faced by Filipinos, igniting a sense of nationalism and a longing for change.