The Embassy of the Philippines in Tokyo led by Ambassador Jose C. Laurel V commemorated the 160th Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose P. Rizal with a Flag Ceremony on Friday, 18 June 2021. The event was attended by the Officers and Heads of other Government Agencies represented in Japan namely, Department of Agriculture, Department of Tourism, Department of Labor and Employment, Department of Defense and Department of Trade and Industry. Only some Officers and Heads of Partner Agencies participated in the ceremony to ensure proper social distancing and observance of COVID-19 prevention protocols.

Ambassador Laurel in his short remarks highly praised Dr. Rizal for his many contributions which sprung from his genuine love for the country and adamant will for equality in the society, risking even his life for the common good. Ambassador Laurel called on each one to be ‘bearers’ of Dr. Rizal’s teachings and ideals for future generations to see. He also encouraged each one to value ‘people’ and ‘relationships’ beyond the material things in life and to always remember that there is strength in ‘bayanihan’.

After the ceremony, information was also shared about the documentary film on Dr. Rizal’s Stay in Germany, entitled “Finding Rizal in a Time of Barriers” which will be launched on 19 June 2021 at the ABS-CBN News Channel and ABS-CBN News YouTube Channel at the link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?app=desktop&v=4c68TeoXUHw. The film was envisioned and conceptualized by Deputy Speaker and Antique Congresswoman Loren Legarda in collaboration with the Department of Foreign Affairs, The Philippine Embassy in Berlin, and Philippine Consulate General in Frankfurt.

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