20 June 2025 (Rome) – In a solemn ceremony held on 19 June 2025 at Piazzale Manila, the Philippine Embassy, in collaboration with the Knights of Rizal and the Kababaihang Rizalista International, commemorated the 164th birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal.
The event brought together members of the Filipino community, including representatives from the Philippine Independence Day Association (PIDA), and various other Filipino organizations based in Italy.
Ambassador Neal Imperial led the wreath-laying ceremony, along with the Knights of Rizal Area Commander for Italy Carlos Simbillo, and Deputy Area Commander for Italy Augusto Cruz, which honored Dr. Rizal’s enduring legacy of patriotism, intellectual brilliance, and sacrifice for the Filipino people.
In his remarks, Ambassador Imperial highlighted Rizal’s continued relevance in today’s modern world, calling on Filipinos in Italy to live by his values. He also recalled that Dr. Rizal was among the earliest Filipinos to visit Rome, a fitting reflection of his global perspective and enduring influence.
A message from Raymundo Del Rosario, Supreme Commander of the Knights of Rizal, was delivered by Augusto Cruz. In his message, he urged his fellow Knights to remain steadfast in preserving Dr. Rizal’s legacy and to serve as guardians of his ideals—especially in this era of rapid technological transformation.
Carlos Simbillo, Knights of Rizal Area Commander for Italy, and Joselito Viray, Chapter Commander of the Knights of Rizal in Rome, also delivered messages underscoring the Order’s commitment to preserving Rizal’s ideals and promoting civic consciousness among overseas Filipinos.
Representing the women’s counterpart organization, Analiza Bueno, President of Kababaihang Rizalista International, spoke on the important role of women in passing on Rizal’s teachings and values within families and communities.
The program concluded with a poignant reading of Rizal’s early poem, “Sa Aking mga Kabata,” by Mr. Lexie Kyle Villanueva, reminding attendees of Rizal’s early passion for the Filipino language and his awakening to nationalism.
The Philippine Embassy also conveyed its sincere appreciation to the Guardians Ex-Military and Police Association (GEMPA) for their continued voluntary efforts in maintaining Piazzale Manila, helping preserve the dignity and cleanliness of this important Filipino landmark in Rome.
Through this commemoration, the Embassy and the Filipino community reaffirmed their enduring commitment to preserving Dr. Jose Rizal’s legacy by fostering unity, promoting cultural awareness, and inspiring civic responsibility. END
Ambassador Neal Imperial, along with Sir Augusto Cruz and Sir Carlos Simbillo of the Knights of Rizal and Embassy officers, lead the wreath laying ceremony
Ambassador Neal Imperial and Embassy officials poses with the members of the Knights of Rizal, Kababaihang Rizalista International, and Philippine Independence Day Association (PIDA)
