Illinois library receives copies of Rizal's novels

To mark the 150th birth anniversary of the Philippines’ national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, the Department of Education and Department of Foreign Affairs donated copies of the original manuscripts of Rizal's novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" to a public library in Illinois in the United States. The donation to the Skokie Public Library earlier this week was in observance of Filipino-American History Month, the Philippine Consulate in Chicago said. "The Skokie Public Library was chosen to be the recipient of the books for its diverse community, which hosts thousands of Filipino-American families, as well as its active participation and support to all Filipino-American community activities in the Village of Skokie," the consulate said. Visiting Education Assistant Secretary Tonisito Umali and Deputy Consul General Orontes Castro presented the books to Skokie Mayor George Van Dusen and Skokie Public Library Adult Service Coordinator Anita Lomial. Also at the turnover rites were Illinois State Representative Daniel Bliss (R-7th District), a Rizal descendant Dr. Ramon Lopez, members of the Filipino-American community, members of the Knights of Rizal, Skokie officials, and representatives of the Philippine Consulate. — ELR, GMA News