Pinoys abroad remember Rizal's martyrdom

Even though they are miles away from home, Filipinos abroad took time out to mark the 115th anniversary of the martyrdom of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal. In Italy, Filipinos marked Rizal Day, December 30, with a flag-raising ceremony, an exhibit of posters on Rizal and a display of books on his life. The activities were held at the Philippine Consulate General in Milan, the Department of Foreign Affairs (DFA) said. In Bahrain, the Philippine Embassy in Manama commemorated Rizal Day with a program on Thursday at the Embassy Chancery. "Highlights of the program included a flag-raising ceremony and reading of Dr. Rizal's Huling Paalam by Rodolfo Villalobos," the DFA said. The movie "Jose Rizal" starring Cesar Montano, was continuously played the whole day at the Embassy lobby. In Mexico, the DFA said Philippine Chargé d'Affaires Angelo Amonoy, Embassy personnel and members of the Filipino community conducted solemn but fitting commemorative rites with the theme "Rizal: Haligi ng Bayan" at the Rizal Monument in Paseo de la Reforma, Mexico City.   The ceremony started with a community singing of the Philippine national anthem followed by a floral offering at the foot of the Rizal Shrine.   A Filipino community youth member recited Rizal's poem, "Mi Ultimo Adios," which displayed his boundless love of country, the DFA said.   In Ireland, the Embassy had a film showing of "Pluma", a GMA7-produced documentary, which was attended by Filipino students in Dublin last December 30.   "The event aimed to educate the youth of the life and noble works of Dr. Rizal and to kindle their love for the country," the DFA said.   An open forum followed, where most of the audience shared a common thought that they all feel proud to be a Filipino after watching the film.   In Lebanon, Ambassador Leah Ruiz highlighted Rizal's love for country and the values of freedom and democracy.   "She urged everyone, whatever his/her position and situation in life to continue to draw inspiration from Dr. Rizal and to work hard to contribute towards more progress and prosperity in the country," the DFA said. - VVP, GMA News