President Rodrigo Duterte commended the efforts of healthcare workers and other frontliners who have dedicated their lives and services to curb the spread of the coronavirus disease 2019 (Covid-19) this 2020 and likened their efforts to that of the Philippines’ national hero Dr. Jose Rizal, who himself was a dedicated physician as well.

“Today, we see many ‘Rizals’ fighting for our people, this time against any unseen adversary — a pandemic. We have our brave front-liners who continue to serve the nation in their unique capacities notwithstanding the risks to life and limb,” said President Duterte in his Rizal Day message, citing that he is inspired by healthcare workers who have exhibited a “new expression of heroism”.

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He remembered Rizal for his bravery and patriotism, describing his life as one that not only needed to be celebrated but also emulated, as per reports from the Philippine News Agency.

“He was a loving son, a good student, a dedicated physician, a passionate writer, and most especially a defender of our right to self-determination,” he said.

Duterte also cited Rizal’s “great aspirations” for the country and for using “the power of the pen” to convey sentiments against oppression and yearnings for emancipation.

“It ignited a strong sense of nationalism and revolution, he was successful. He was our hero,” he said.

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Duterte, meanwhile, expressed hope that Filipinos would express love and respect for the nation and follow the examples of Rizal and other modern-day heroes.

Rizal Day, a regular holiday, was first instituted with a decree issued by President Emilio Aguinaldo on Dec. 20, 1898, declaring Dec. 30 as the anniversary of Jose Rizal’s death. He was executed in Bagumbayan (now known as Luneta) on Dec. 30, 1896.

The first-ever celebration of Rizal Day in the Philippines was held in Manila on Dec. 30, 1898 by the Club Filipino which coincided with the unveiling of the first-ever erected Rizal monument in the town of Daet in Camarines Norte.