DOHA 29 December 2024 — The Embassy of the Republic of the Philippines in the State of Qatar, in partnership with the Doha Chapter of the Knights of Rizal and Las Damas de Rizal, marked the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of national hero Dr. José P. Rizal in solemn rites held at the Embassy Chancery on 27 December 2024.

The event bore the theme, “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas” (Rizal in the New Philippines: Life and Teachings, as Our Guide).

In her keynote address, Philippine Ambassador to the State of Qatar, Her Excellency Lillibeth V. Pono, underscored the continuing relevance of Rizal’s life and works more than a century since his passing.

“Today, we are united by a sense of patriotism as we gather to recall the enduring legacy of Dr. José P. Rizal,” she said. “His life and works resonate deeply, particularly among us who live or work abroad. For Rizal himself was an intrepid traveler whose love of adventure and exploration of new cultures only served to ignite his passion and dedication to fight for the freedom of his homeland.”

She added, “Like Rizal, modern-day overseas Filipinos maintain a profound connection to their roots, seizing opportunities to learn and grow, both personally and professionally, and extending meaningful acts of solidarity to their kababayan in need.”

The program featured performances by the award-winning musical group Maharlikans Vocal Ensemble Philippines and Doha-based NAMCYA prize winner for violin Willie Munar.

Similarly, select high school students from Philippine School Doha (PSD) and Philippine International School - Qatar (PIS-Q) delivered an oral interpretation of the Rizal classic “Mi Último Adios" in both Spanish and Filipino.

The event also marked the inauguration of the new Embassy Chancery. Embassy officials welcomed over a hundred members of the Filipino community who were given a tour of the premises.

For more information, visit dohape.dfa.gov.ph, facebook.com/PHinQatar, or instagram.com/phinqatar.