LONDON 03 January 2024 – The Philippine Embassy in London paid solemn tribute to Dr. Jose Rizal in its commemoration of the 127th anniversary of his martyrdom at Sentro Rizal London on 29 December 2023. In attendance at the commemoration were officers of the Knights of Rizal (KOR) Area of United Kingdom and Ireland and Kababaihang Rizalista, Inc. (KRI)– London, and some members of the Filipino community.

The program commenced with the singing of the National Anthem followed by Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr.’s opening remarks and a wreath laying ceremony at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal. Flowers were also offered by the officers of KOR and KRI and members of the Filipino community.

In his remarks, Ambassador Teodoro L. Locsin, Jr. emphasized that the commemoration is not so much of Dr. Rizal’s death but of the birth of our nation. His writings, particularly, ”Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” catalyzed a sense of national identity before our nation was born.

The Ambassador said that by remembering Dr. Rizal’s martyrdom, we remember as well what was lost thereby: one of the most talented individuals in the history of humanity. 

Ambassador Locsin also left a challenge not only to himself but to all participants to live Rizal’s richly accomplished life. He said, “What remains for us, for our generation and the ones after us, to do is to be him: the best that we can be in life.”

A highlight of the event was the inscription of verses of Dr. Rizal’s poem, “Sa Aking Mga Kabata,” on a scroll participated in by Ambassador Locsin and officers of KOR and KRI.

The event concluded with a salo-salo of Filipino food and fellowship with the guests.