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Top Vietnamese leader pays tribute to Philippine national hero Jose Rizal
VGP - General Secretary and President To Lam laid flowers at the monument dedicated to Philippine national hero Jose Rizal in Manila on June 1, as part of their state visit to the Philippines.
General Secretary and President To Lam lays flowers at the monument dedicated to Philippine national hero Jose Rizal in Manila, the Philippines, June 1, 2026. Photo: VNA
The Rizal Monument is one of the Philippines' most revered historical landmarks.
Situated in the heart of Manila, it honors Dr. Jose Rizal – a physician, writer, reformist, and national hero whose ideas and sacrifices inspired the country's struggle for independence.
Inaugurated on December 30, 1913, exactly 17 years after Rizal's death, the monument features a bronze statue mounted on a granite pedestal and stands as a lasting symbol of patriotism, freedom, and national pride. Each year on December 30, observed as Rizal Day, thousands of Filipinos, including senior government officials and national leaders, gather at the site to pay tribute to the revered hero.
The annual commemoration serves as an important educational occasion, helping to instill in younger generations the values embodied by Rizal, including patriotism, selflessness, and dedication to national independence.
Beyond its historical significance, the monument remains a prominent venue for cultural activities, public gatherings, and major national events, reflecting its enduring place in the Philippines' national identity./.