152nd Birth Anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal

Today, the Filipino nation celebrates the 152nd birth anniversary of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. Born on June 19, 1861, Rizal is the most celebrated national hero in the Philippines with a province, a number of towns, schools and streets named after him. His monuments are also found virtually all over the country and even abroad.

the 22-feet statue of Rizal in his hometown of Calamba, Laguna
Photo by Edgar Co for pinasmuna.com

In line with the celebration, President Benigno S. Aquino III declared June 19, 2013, by virtue of Proclamation No. 600, as a special (non-working) holiday in the Province of Laguna to give its people the opportunity to celebrate the occasion and to participate in the ceremonies and activities in connection with the event.