Honoring our National Hero: Ms. Ma. Charmaine D. Guevara (center), Chargés d’Affaires, led the Embassy staff, attached agencies, and members of the Filipino community in commemorating the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom at the Embassy lobby in Bangkok, Thailand
BANGKOK, 30 DECEMBER 2024 - With the theme “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas” (Rizal in the New Philippines: Life and Teachings, as our Guide), the Philippine Embassy in Bangkok commemorated the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal at the Embassy lobby.
The solemn event was led by Ms. Ma. Charmaine D. Guevara, Chargés d'Affaires, and attended by Embassy personnel, representatives from attached agencies, and members of the Filipino community in Thailand.
The program began with an introduction by Ms. Maria Alexandra G. Contreras, who warmly welcomed the attendees and underscored the significance of the day’s commemoration.
Mr. Martin Julius V. Perez delivered an evocative reading of Dr. Jose Rizal’s renowned poem, “Sa Kabataang Filipino.” This masterpiece, written in 1879, highlights Rizal’s vision for the youth as the hope of the nation, urging them to cultivate their intellect and creativity for the country’s progress. The poignant reading served as a powerful reminder of Rizal’s enduring message to the new generation of Filipinos.
A video presentation about Rizal, provided by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), further enriched the program by showcasing the hero’s life, works, and legacy. The presentation emphasized the relevance of Rizal’s ideals in guiding Filipinos towards a brighter future.
The commemoration concluded with a wreath-laying ceremony led by CDA Guevara, Atty. Romulo R. Ubay Jr., and Ms. Caesaira Daiz Morante, a Filipino teacher based in Chiang Mai, Thailand. The act symbolized a collective expression of gratitude and respect for the sacrifices of the nation’s foremost hero.
To extend the tribute to Dr. Rizal throughout the day, NHCP’s educational videos were continuously played at the public area of consular section, allowing clients to learn more about Rizal’s life and contributions. Additionally, the bust of Dr. Rizal was prominently displayed in the lobby, providing an opportunity for the public to offer their respects to the national hero.
The Philippine Embassy’s commemoration of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s martyrdom served as a meaningful reminder of his life and teachings, which continue to inspire Filipinos both in the Philippines and abroad to strive for a just and progressive society. END
Ms. Maria Alexandra G. Contreras (top left) warmly welcomed guests, setting the tone for the event, while Mr. Martin Julius V. Perez (top right) delivered a heartfelt reading of Dr. Jose Rizal’s iconic poem, “Sa Kabataang Filipino”
CDA Ma. Charmaine D. Guevara, Atty. Romulo R. Ubay Jr., and Ms. Caesaira Daiz Morante, a Filipino teacher based in Chiang Mai, Thailand, led the wreath-laying ceremony to honor the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s martyrdom at the Philippine Embassy lobby.
