The Knights of Rizal Florence was headed by Incoming Florence Chapter Commander Carlos M. Simbillo and Incoming Frosinone Chapter Commander Salvatore Olivari de la Moneda. Reputable members of the Filipino community in both areas were also sworn in as officers

.Ambassador Reyes congratulated the new officers and called on them to emulate Dr. Jose Rizal as his life serves as a model of how modern-day Filipinos can realize the ideals espoused by the national hero. He likewise spoke of how the Knights of Rizal in Italy can initiate changes and influence policies affecting Filipinos in Italy.

The Knights of Rizal is a “civic and patriotic organization recognized by law as an instrumentality by which the teachings of our national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal may be propagated among the Filipino people, and others who may believe in his teachings to the end that they may emulate and follow his examples.”