The three highly urbanized cities of Cebu commemorated the 129th anniversary of the martyrdom of national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, on Tuesday, December 30, 2025. 

A cultural performance and a floral offering at the monument of Dr. Rizal were carried out in Mandaue City. 

Members of the Special Weapons and Tactics (SWAT) team performed a 21-gun salute in honor of the national hero. 

Attendees were reminded of the importance of heroic acts in everyday life.   

“It is found in the ordinary Mandauehanons who work hard to provide for their family, in the teachers who shape young minds, in the worker who serve with honesty, and in the citizens who choose to do what is right,” City Councilor Joel Seno said in his message.

In Cebu City, a wreath laying was done at his monument in Plaza Sugbo. 

Mayor Nestor Archival commemorated the heroism of Rizal, and honored with a 21-gun salute by the Cebu City Police Office.

War veterans and their families, with officials of various government agencies, attended the activity that underscored the significant contributions of the national hero in attaining freedom and the country’s independence. 

In Lapu-Lapu City, a program was conducted at Plaza Rizal in Barangay Poblacion attended by city officials, City Hall employees, Department of Education officials, barangay officials, and the Lapu-Lapu City Police. 

After a flag-raising ceremony, a wreath laying followed at Rizal’s monument. 

Lapu-Lapu City Lone District Rep. Junard Chan led the ceremony in lieu of his wife, Mayor Cindi King-Chan who is out of the country. 

(with Alan Domingo and Lou-Anne Mae Rondina/GMA Regional TV Balitang Bisdak)