RIZAL IN PARIS: CELEBRATING THE BIRTH & LIFE OF THE PHILIPPINE NATIONAL HERO
23 June 2024
In commemoration of the 163rd birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, Paris-based Rizal groups, along with the Philippine Embassy in France, conducted on 23 June 2024 a solemn ceremony before his bust at
Place Jose Rizal in the 9th arrondissement of Paris. The said date also aligns with the 2nd anniversary of the inauguration of the bust, the first and only statue of a Filipino figure in a public space in France.
Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West joins the celebration of Paris-based Rizal groups at Place Jose Rizal.
Groups such as the Knights of Rizal Paris Chapter, Dimasalang Île de France Chapter, Elias Paris Chapter, Kababaihang Rizalista Inc., Ladies of Rizal International, and Las Damas de Rizal, gathered to deliver their messages in honor of the national hero. Philippine Ambassador to France, H.E. Junever Mahilum-West, also graced the event and partook in the wreath-laying ceremony. The Ambassador enjoined the groups to continue inspiring fellow Filipinos to uplift the image of the Philippines and Filipino society as a nation and continue Dr. Jose Rizal’s legacy of love for the country.
Mr. Catalino Oabel, Jr., Area Commander of the Knights of Rizal, welcomed attendees to the ceremony
The Ambassador also thanked the Rizalist community for their unwavering commitment to maintaining the integrity and upkeep of the national hero’s historical marker, which symbolizes the Filipino heritage in France. The Embassy continues its coordination efforts with the Mairie of Paris to ensure that any transgressions against the bust are duly reported and addressed.
A wreath-laying ceremony was conducted at Dr. Jose Rizal’s bust in honor of his 163rd birth anniversary and the 2nd anniversary of the marker’s inauguration. Attendees sang patriotic songs such as Bayan Ko and Pilipinas Kong Mahal during the wreath-laying ceremony. A brunch followed the ceremony in a nearby café where the groups discussed future programs and initiatives with the Philippine Embassy.
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