"To foretell the destiny of a nation, it is necessary to open a book that tells of her past."
	- Dr. Jose Rizal

Today, June 19, marks the 159th birth anniversary of our National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal.

As it is a special day for our country, listed below are some of the events of today’s celebration:
	• Malacañang palace paid tribute to our frontliners and called them ‘modern-day heroes’. They also asked our fellow Filipinos to emulate the principles of Dr. Jose Rizal. “We ask our people, the youth in particular, whom our beloved hero referred to as the ‘hope for our future,’ to take inspiration from his life and emulate his principles to be agents of genuine transformation for a better Philippines,” Harry Roque said.
	• Pasig Mayor Vico Sotto praised acts of heroism during the coronavirus pandemic. “During this time of pandemic, we saw examples of heroism. I hope that the spirit of Jose Rizal will live on in what we do in our daily lives,” the mayor said on his speech.
	• Manila Mayor Isko Moreno led the flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremony at the Luneta Park. Only a few guests joined the rites, including Manila Vice Mayor Honey Lacuna, city police chief Brig. Gen. Rolando Miranda and several officers.
	• Vibal Group announced last Wednesday that the “Noli Me Tangere” musical adaptation, “Kanser: The Musical”, will be streamed online today on their Facebook page (https://www.facebook.com/VibalGroup) at 7pm. Stay tuned!
	• Coffee artist Rens Tuazon shared his art of Jose Rizal’s portrait to commemorate his birthday anniversary. “Today, we remember a great hero. Dr. José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda on his 159th Birth Anniversary, 19th of June," he said.

"Filipinos don't realize that victory is the child of struggle, that joy blossoms from suffering, and redemption is a product of sacrifice."
	- Dr. Jose Rizal

Dr. Jose Rizal once stepped up to create change in our country so may he be our inspiration to do the same. May we all rise to fight and speak up for the betterment of the nation!