29 December 2024.The Philippine Embassy in France joined the Filipino Rizalist community groups in Paris on 29 December 2024 in commemorating the 128th year of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal. The solemn wreath-laying ceremony was held right at the Philippine national hero’s bust in Place Jose Rizal at Paris’ 9th arrondissement.
Filipino community leaders of Rizalist groups based in France delivered their messages during the commemoration ceremony.
Leaders of the France-based Rizalist groups led by Mr. Catalino Oabel of the Knights of Rizal and Ms. Ninette Brosas of Las Damas de Rizal, among other chapter leaders, organized the event in coordination with the Embassy. They delivered their messages honoring Rizal’s legacy and his contributions to Philippine freedom, national identity, and modern society.
Ambassador Junever Mahilum-West delivers her inspirational message in commemoration of Rizal’s martyrdom at Place Jose Rizal.
H.E. Junever Mahilum-West, Philippine Ambassador to France, gave her inspirational message. The Ambassador emphasized that celebrating José Rizal’s legacy in Paris was fitting, as the city once nurtured his ideals of freedom and justice, which continue to inspire today. The 2024 theme, “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas,” emphasizes that his values—such as youth and women empowerment, social justice, and cultural pride—remain crucial in addressing modern challenges. Rizal’s influence is particularly felt by Filipinos abroad, exemplified by the success of Filipino athletes at the 2024 Paris Olympics, whose victories mirror Rizal’s indomitable spirit of patriotism and resilience. Efforts to preserve his memory in Paris, like the bust dedicated to him, alongside milestones like resumed flights between Paris and Manila, reinforce the ongoing relevance of Rizal’s vision for a free and just society. The Ambassador also thanked the Mairie de Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo and Deputy Mayor Arnaud Ngatcha for the city’s instrumental role in the installation and upkeep of Place Jose Rizal. 
Embassy and FilCom representatives offered flowers to the Rizal bust as Bayan Ko is sung in the background.
Philippine Embassy representatives led by Ambassador Mahilum-West and Deputy Chief of Mission Eric Tamayo, along with Rizalist groups, offered flowers to the Rizal bust which celebrated its second anniversary of inauguration last June 2024. This historical marker is the only public bust of a Filipino icon in Paris.
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