The nation celebrated the 165th birth anniversary of Jose Rizal on Friday. In Cebu City, a program was held led by Vice Mayor Tomas Osmeña, officials of the Cultural and Historical Affairs Commission, Councilor Francis Esparis, city employees, and guests from the Armed Forces, police, and Coast Guard. Many members of the Knights of Rizal also attended. Osmeña delivered a meaningful message about the lessons we can learn from Rizal's life. He also thanked the national hero for his sacrifices for the country.
Rizal's Visit to Cebu Recalled
In my part, I emphasized Rizal's actual visit to Cebu City aboard the steamer "España" on August 2, 1896. I mentioned that the national hero was very pleased with his tour here at that time, riding a tartanilla.
Fight Against Fake News
We also did not miss criticizing the spread of false information or "fake news" in our society today. These things are very saddening because they divide us all, instead of uniting us for our progress. For example, with just one click on a cellphone, a false news can be immediately passed on to many. This can cause quarrels among siblings, friends, and even within a barangay.
True Government Service
We also emphasized genuine government service—the kind of service that expects no reward from those being served. We see this in the works of Rizal, who established a free school in Dapitan. As a doctor, he also treated the sick without charge. Rizal's life should be emulated by the people, especially government employees. For proper service is the most effective weapon against false information. In his time, Rizal wrote the novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" to overcome the lies spread by the Spanish colonizers.
Call to Emulate Rizal
It is hoped that the examples of Rizal will flow through us Filipinos in this modern time. Here in Way Opaway, we will always uphold the truth and reject false information.
