Signed copies of Jose Rizal manga added to library of Philippine Embassy in Japan

Signed copies of the manga featuring the life of Dr. Jose Rizal have been turned over to the Philippine Embassy in Japan ahead of his 125th death anniversary on December 30.

On Facebook, Wednesday, the embassy said the copies, which were signed by writer Takahiro Matsui and artist Ryo Konno, will be part of their Sentro Rizal Library.

Charge d'affaires (CDA) Robespierre L. Bolivar said in a statement that they aim for this artwork to be a new and entertaining avenue for both Filipino and Japanese students to know Rizal.

"As a teacher before joining the diplomatic service, I know for a fact that asking students to remember dates, names and events is not sufficient," he said.

"As such, the publication of this Manga presents a creative way to capture the interest and engage younger generations, who are fans of comic books, to learn more about our national hero," he added.

Titled "Jose Rizal, The Filipino Hero's Life Illustrated," the manga was first released online in 2018 and later published in Filipino, English, and Japanese.

It tackles key events in his life, beginning from his execution in Bagumbayan. It also circles on Rizal's childhood, his education, writings, and his pursuit of reforms during the Spanish rule in the Philippines.

—Franchesca Viernes/MGP, GMA News