Mayor John Dalipe led the ceremony commemorating Dr. Jose Rizal’s 162nd birth anniversary, with the theme: “Rizalism: Conservation of Ecology and Natural Resources” at Plaza Rizal, 7am of June 19, 2023.

In his keynote message, Dalipe encouraged Zamboangueños most especially the youth, to embrace the national hero’s legacy as a compass for nation building.

“Let us be the catalysts for positive change, empower our communities, to achieve a lasting impact. Together, let us honor Dr. Jose Rizal’s memory by dedicating ourselves to the noble task of nation-building, for a brighter and more prosperous future awaits us all,” Mayor Dalipe said.

The ceremony kicked off with the flag raising ceremony and the Wreath-Laying rite.

The activity was spearheaded by the City Government in coordination with the Order of the Knights of Rizal of Zamboanga City Chapter, and Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines of RIX ZAMBASULTA.

Joining in the celebration of the national hero’s birth anniversary were Vice Mayor Josephine Pareja, District I Cong. Khymer Olaso, the District Deputy Grand Master of RIX ZAMBASULTA Free and Accepted Masons of the Philippines Atty. Quirino Esguera Jr., Knights of Rizal Area Commander for Western Mindanao, Domingo Falcasantos and several others. (Ma. Bernadeth Lazaro/ CMO-PIO)