ON MONDAY, DECEMBER 30, 2024, Ormoc City commemorated the 128th anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal’s martyrdom, highlighting the theme, “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas, Buhay at Aral Ating Nilalandas,” held at the Ormoc City Museum Grounds.
In her keynote message, Ormoc City Mayor Lucy Torres Gomez urged everyone to reflect deeply on the life and works of Rizal, saying, “Let us be inspired by Rizal’s courage, his intellect, and faith in the Filipino people.” She underscored how Rizal’s values of patriotism, bravery, and selflessness continue to inspire Filipinos today. Mayor Lucy also encouraged everyone to continue to protect the nation’s freedom, adding, “We must work tirelessly to ensure that the sacrifices of our heroes are not in vain and blood continues to nourish a nation that values justice, equality, and progress.”
The ceremony was also graced by 4th District of Leyte Representative Richard I. Gomez, members of the 16th Sangguniang Panlungsod, Uniformed Personnel, LGU department heads, Boy Scout of the Philippines, Girl Scouts of the Philippines, DepEd-Ormoc City Division and other public servants. (By James Gadiano / EV Mail Dec. 30, 2024-Jan. 5, 2025 issue)