ACTING Cebu City Mayor Dondon Hontiveros called on public servants and citizens to uphold the core virtues of Dr. Jose Rizal as the nation marked the national hero’s 164th birth anniversary on Thursday, June 19, 2025.
Speaking at a wreath-laying ceremony held on Thursday at the Rizal Monument in Plaza Sugbo, beside Cebu City Hall, Hontiveros emphasized that Rizal’s legacy extends beyond historical remembrance, serving as a blueprint for responsible leadership and civic duty.
“His virtues — integrity, discipline, intellectual honesty, compassion for the poor and love of country — remain relevant and necessary in today’s governance,” said Hontiveros.
“Let us emulate Rizal’s fearless advocacy for truth and his commitment to serving others, not for personal gain, but for the genuine progress of our communities,” he added.
Hontiveros also reminded his fellow leaders that while the youth remain the nation’s hope, it is their responsibility to shape a nation that deserves that hope.
“Rizal believed that the youth is the hope of the nation, but we, the leaders and stewards of public trust, are the ones who must build a nation worthy of that hope,” he said.
He asserted that public servants and leaders must lead with courage and humility towards their constituents.
He added that servant leaders must anchor their decisions on justice and equity, striving to be worthy of the people’s confidence.
Hontiveros said public leaders should not strive for power and position for personal gain, but rather serve the public with fidelity to the common good.
The ceremony was attended by Cebu City Police Office Acting Director Enrico Figueroa, Knights of Rizal Central Visayas regional commander Edison Delos Angeles, Councilor Francis Esparis and officials from various government agencies.
The annual event was held in honor of Rizal’s significant contributions to Philippine independence and his enduring influence on the values of leadership and public service.
Rizal, born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, was a patriot, physician and man of letters. He was executed on Dec. 30, 1896, in Manila. His works and ideals continue to serve as an inspiration for the Philippine nationalist movement. / Jeanette Arinque, Holy Name University Intern