The Philippine Embassy in Spain commemorated the 114th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal last 30 December 2010 with a program and a cocktail reception at the Chancery.
The Embassy organized the event in cooperation with the Knights of Rizal-Madrid Chapter.
The wreath-laying ceremony highlighted the program. Embassy officers and staff and Knights of Rizal-Madrid Chapter members recited Rizal’s famous Mi Ultimo Adios.
This was followed by the Embassy officers and staff’s performance of Canto Patriótico de Maria Clara which is based on Rizal´s poem dedicated to Maria Clara.
Chargé d’Affaires (CDA), a.i. Celia Anna M. Feria addressed the Filipino and Spanish community gathered for the occasion. She reminded them of Dr. Rizal’s contributions to the Philippines and encouraged them to try to emulate his love and dedication for the country.
More importantly, CDA Feria formally launched the start of the Embassy´s year-long celebration of Dr. Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary next year which will include art exhibits, concerts, Rizal tours, and other Rizal-themed activities.