Nepalese Bishal Ale Magar never thought that his trip to the Cebu City Museum three days ago would land him the lead role in the reenactment of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal.
The 21-year-old architecture student from the University of the Visayas was just looking for ideas in the museum when the Cultural and Historical Affairs Office asked him to star in the activity that was scheduled for Rizal Day, Dec. 30.
“It was a great moment for me to learn about Rizal’s life, his works, contributions and patriotism. Just like how Filipinos saw him, I felt his heroism,” he said.
While he may not be a Filipino by blood, Bishal said he got an “indescribable, overwhelming” feeling while he was performing.
He said that regardless of race, the young and old have the potential to be heroes like Rizal, if not become greater versions of themselves.
The sentiment was shared by Acting Mayor Edgardo Labella, who encouraged everyone to weave into their daily lives the values possessed by the national hero.
He told parents to be “heroes” of their families and teach their children how to be good, keep good, and make good.
“Inculcate the fear of God, love for country and respect for elders among your children,” he said.
Labella encouraged teachers and government officials and workers to underscore the value of honesty and always remember that public office is a public trust.
He described Dr. Rizal as not only a hero but also a national symbol of peace and unity as the country fights social problems such as corruption, poverty and illegal drugs, among others.
Meanwhile, members of the Order of the Knights of Rizal are asking the Cebu City Government to change City Hall Lane’s name to Dr. Jose Rizal St.
The area is located in front of the Cebu City Hall.
“Naming this road after Dr. Rizal will serve as a constant reminder of his important role in our struggle for freedom that eventually paved the way for the establishment of this very government system that we now have. Located in a tourist area, this small road where a historic monument of Dr. Rizal still stands today is a good place to send a message to the world that we are a free people because we believe that “there can be no tyrants when there are no slaves,” reads a portion of their letter of request.
Labella said the matter must be first contained in a draft ordinance sponsored by a member of the City Council. / RTF