The Philippine embassy in Doha marked the 129th anniversary of Dr Jose Rizal’s martyrdom with solemn rites held at the Chancery on December 30.
Held under the theme "Rizal: Sa Pagbangon ng mga Mamamayan, Aral at Diwa Mo ang Tunay na Gabay” (Rizal: As Our People Rise, Your Teachings and Wisdom Guide Our Way), the event paid tribute to Rizal’s intellectual legacy and his vision of a truly independent nation.
In his remarks, Philippine ambassador Mardomel Celo D Melicor stressed that Rizal’s wisdom remains a vital compass for the Filipino people as they navigate the complexities of the 21st century.
"Until his final breath, Rizal manifested courage by choosing to face his executioners,” Melicor said. "The values he embodied, together with his body of work, served as a foundational pillar in the establishment of Asia’s first republic.”
The observance featured a solemn wreath-laying ceremony led by Melicor, joined by embassy officials and members of the Filipino community.
The event also served as the formal closing of the embassy’s 2025 calendar, during which Filipino community leaders and volunteers were recognised for their partnership in various social and diplomatic initiatives over the past year.