RIZAL'S LEGACY. Senator Imee Marcos on Wednesday (June 19, 2024) said Dr. Jose Rizal's message remains relevant today as the Philippines navigates geo-political issues. The lawmaker took part in the celebration of the national hero's 163rd birthday in Calamba City. (Photo by Zen Trinidad)
CALAMBA CITY, Laguna – A lawmaker said the Philippines must hold on to the principles espoused by national hero Dr. Jose Rizal as the country tries to navigate geopolitical tensions arising from a territorial dispute in the West Philippine Sea (WPS).
During a celebration of Rizal’s 163rd birthday in this city, Senator Imee Marcos said the national hero's legacy stands as a beacon of peace and wisdom, despite doubts about his relevance among the youth consumed by social media.
She stressed that as early as the 19th century, Rizal understood the power of communication —how the pen could wield more influence than the sword.
His decision to use words instead of violence during times of crisis, such as the Filipino Revolution, underscores his commitment to peaceful change and reconciliation, Marcos said.
Relating Rizal’s message to contemporary Philippines, she pointed out that the hero’s teachings remind policy-makers today that violence is not the solution whether in disputes over territories like the West Philippine Sea or conflicts in the Taiwan Strait.
“Rizal's brilliance may seem overshadowed in a time where aggression is valorized, but his message of non-violence and intellectual pursuit remains crucial,“ Marcos said.
The senator said Rizal is the only notable Filipino with monuments in both China and Cuba.
Rizal's monument in Jinjiang City, China is his tallest monument outside of the Philippines.
“He believed in changing society through education and dialogue, not through armed conflict,” Marcos added. (PNA)
