Philippines Marks 129th Anniversary of Jose Rizal’s Martyrdom

The Rizal Day rites are held annually to honor the national hero’s life and sacrifice. Photo courtesy of NHCP.

The Philippines is commemorating the enduring heroism and sacrifice of Jose Rizal, honoring the life, works, and ideals of the national hero whose legacy continues to shape the Filipino nation.

The 129th anniversary of Rizal’s martyrdom is observed on December 30, 2025, with official rites including flag-raising and wreath-laying ceremonies at the Rizal National Monument in Manila, led by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) together with representatives from government agencies, local government units, uniformed services, civil society groups, and the Diplomatic Corps.

Simultaneous commemorative programs will also be held at the Rizal Shrine in Calamba City, Laguna; the Rizal Shrine in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte; and at various Rizal monuments across the country, reflecting nationwide participation in the annual observance.

This year’s commemoration carries the theme “RIZAL: Sa Pagbangon ng mga Mamamayan, Aral at Diwa Mo ang Tunay na Gabay,” highlighting the continuing relevance of Rizal’s teachings as Filipinos confront present-day challenges as a people and as a nation.

Rizal, a leading author, thinker, and intellectual figure of the late 19th century, played a crucial role in shaping Filipino national identity during the Spanish colonial period. Through his writings and advocacies, and alongside fellow reformists, he exposed corruption and injustice while asserting the dignity and equality of Filipinos within the global community of nations.

His critical and thought-provoking works led to his persecution by the colonial authorities, resulting in years of exile in what is now Zamboanga del Norte. Following the outbreak of the Philippine Revolution in 1896, Rizal was arrested, accused of subversion, and executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896, in Bagumbayan, the area now known as Luneta Park.

Rizal’s death has been commemorated by the Filipino people since 1898, when December 30 was declared a National Day of Mourning in his honor. To this day, the tradition continues with national flags flown at half-staff every Rizal Day.

The NHCP, as the government agency mandated to promote Philippine history, leads the annual observance as part of its mission to preserve historical heritage, conduct research, and mark significant sites and events in the country’s past.

Learn more about how Filipinos nationwide honor Jose Rizal’s life, works, and enduring legacy in articles on GoodNewsPilipinas.com