Rizal Day
December 30, Wednesday
Who is José Rizal
José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda was born in 1861 and became a symbol of peaceful struggle for reforms and the rights of Filipinos. His novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo exposed the abuses of colonial power and awakened national consciousness. Although Rizal did not call for armed revolt, his ideas inspired the independence movement.
When it is celebrated
Rizal Day is celebrated annually on December 30 — the day of his execution in 1896 in Manila by Spanish authorities. This date has become a symbol of sacrifice for freedom and the future of the nation.
Historical significance
The execution of José Rizal sparked a strong public reaction and intensified revolutionary sentiments, which soon led to the Philippine Revolution and the struggle for independence. Today, Rizal is honored as a moral guide for the nation and an example of patriotism.
How the holiday is celebrated
Official and commemorative events are held across the country:
* laying wreaths at Rizal monuments
* state ceremonies with national leaders
* cultural programs, lectures, and exhibitions
* readings of his works and discussions of his ideas
* school activities dedicated to the life of the hero
Main places of remembrance
Several iconic sites are closely associated with the holiday:
* Rizal Park in Manila, where the main monument to the hero is located
* Fort Santiago, where he spent his last days before execution
* memorials and schools bearing his name across the country
Role in contemporary culture
The image of José Rizal appears in Philippine literature, cinema, on banknotes, and in the names of streets and educational institutions. His works are studied in schools and universities as a mandatory part of the curriculum.
Interesting facts
* Rizal spoke more than ten languages and was a highly educated polymath.
* He was also a talented painter and sculptor.
* Before his death, he wrote the farewell poem Mi último adiós, which became one of the most famous works of Philippine poetry.
Meaning of the holiday today
Rizal Day reminds Filipinos of the value of freedom, dignity, and peaceful resistance to injustice. It is a day of remembrance, reflection, and national pride, uniting society around shared historical and cultural roots.
Rizal Day in other years
- 2021 December 30, Thursday
- 2022 December 30, Friday
- 2023 December 30, Saturday
- 2024 December 30, Monday
- 2025 December 30, Tuesday
- 2027 December 30, Thursday