National Hero Jose Rizal’s 150th birthday was a reason for the country to celebrate a holiday with a bang. Not only is he regarded as our foremost Filipino patriot, he is also acknowledged abroad with statues honoring him in countries such as Spain, Germany, and Japan.
Despite the heavy rains, a lively crowd participated in the event in Fort Santiago, Intramuros that was organized by Rizal descendants headed by Lisa Rizal Hidalgo, Tinio Bayot, and Marlene Lopez Rizal Jacinto. It was an evening of art, music, poetry, and fireworks that included artists who volunteered their services such as songbird Cris Villonco, Gerald Salonga, Berklee alumna Tess Salientes, Toots Tolentino, the Sipat Lawin Group, Heroes Square, Banda Ng Maynila, the Ateneo Chamber of Music singers conducted by Jojo Velasco, and event organizer Ria Limjap.
When asked about the reason for the festivities, Bayot replied, “ I was looking for meaningful ways to celebrate Lolo Jose’s 150th birthday and like Rizal, I am a firm believer in the importance of education. The idea of the event ‘Maligayang Bati Jose Rizal’ was a kickoff activity for our website www.myrizal150.com. I would like to encourage the youth to take a closer look at Rizal’s life and ideals and in the process, one can discover there is something in Rizal one can relate to and emulate. There is something of Rizal in each one of us!”
In another patriotic and elegant event, it was Mega magazine’s Pinoy Pride Terno Ball at the Makati Shangri-La Hotel that once again brought our beautiful national dress to the forefront. Inspired by the rich tradition and heritage of Philippine culture that has been around for thousands of years, the ladies were requested to come in their version of the terno and so many of them caught my eye with such poise and grace. And yes, I still think we have the best national wear compared to any other country.
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