Rizal’s Legacy Lives On: Leaders Gather in Calamba as Senator JV Ejercito Pledges ₱100M for Laguna Mega Clinic

**** by: Edjun Mariposque

****

June 19, 2026

4–6 minutes

CALAMBA CITY, Laguna — Government leaders, local officials, and residents gathered at the Rizal Shrine in Calamba City on June 19 to commemorate the 165th birth anniversary of the Philippines’ national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal, honoring his enduring legacy of courage, patriotism, and service to the nation.

The celebration brought together key national and local figures including, Senador JV Ejercito, Laguna Governor Sol Aragones, Congresswoman Charisse Hernandez, and Mayor Roseller “Ross” H. Rizal, along with members of the Sangguniang Panlungsod, provincial board officials, department heads, and other government leaders. The gathering served as a tribute to the hero whose life and ideals continue to shape Filipino identity and inspire generations.

In her message, Governor Sol Aragones highlighted the qualities that have kept Rizal relevant across generations of Filipinos. She described the national hero as a man of intelligence, compassion, and courage whose life reflected a deep commitment to serving others and improving society. She also emphasized Rizal’s humanitarian work as a physician and his multilingual abilities as examples of his well-rounded character and dedication to nation-building.

Aragones stressed that courage goes beyond facing danger and also means standing for what is right.

“Ang pagiging matapang ay ang pagpili ng dapat na laban, paglaban sa katotohanan at kahirapan,” she said.

She also reminded attendees of the significance of celebrating Rizal’s birth anniversary in his hometown, adding, “Nandito mismo sa Calamba ang dugong bayani.”

Senator JV Ejercito emphasized the importance of preserving the nation’s heritage and learning from the sacrifices of Filipino heroes.

“Lover din po ako ng history,” he shared, emphasizing that understanding the country’s past strengthens national identity and civic responsibility.

As part of his continued support for Laguna, Ejercito also announced a ₱100-million commitment aimed at strengthening healthcare services in the province, including support for the planned Laguna Mega Clinic — a flagship healthcare initiative of the provincial government designed to expand access to quality and affordable medical services for Lagunenses.

The senator also encouraged Filipinos to remain active participants in nation-building, saying, “Kung pwede tayong kumilos, kung pwede tayong may magawa para sa ating bayan, tayo po ay kumilos,” while urging citizens to “tindigan ang tama, tindigan ang prinsipyo” amid the challenges of modern times.

Meanwhile, Congresswoman Charisse Hernandez reminded the public that Rizal’s life continues to demonstrate the power of individual action and responsibility.

“Walang sinuman ang napakaliit para gumawa ng mga dakilang bagay,” she said, encouraging Filipinos to contribute to positive change within their communities.

According to Hernandez, Rizal’s example proves how dedication, integrity, and service can create lasting impact on society.

Mayor Ross Rizal likewise encouraged residents to reflect on the life and teachings of the national hero, noting that Rizal’s legacy continues to inspire Filipinos to become responsible citizens and active contributors to national development.

He emphasized that Rizal’s story serves as a reminder that meaningful change begins with a sincere commitment to serving others and standing up for what is right.

The commemoration served not only as a tribute to the country’s foremost hero but also as a call for Filipinos to continue living by the values Rizal defended. Through messages of courage, service, leadership, and patriotism, the event reaffirmed that Rizal’s legacy remains a guiding force for nation-building more than a century after his birth.

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