June 19, 2005 marks the 144th birthday of Laguna's famous son and the country's national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal. The commemoration, which is declared a Special Non-Working Holiday in the whole province as stated in the Presidential Proclamation No. 205 is expected to instill patriotism and nationalism as we all reminisce his martyrdom.

     Coming from an affluent family, Rizal's heart is with the masses since his works, particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo depict the plight of the common people. His ideals were universal since up to now, poverty ignorance, and suppression continue to haunt us.

     The life of Dr. Jose P. Rizal is a testament worth emulating. His legacy is at part with the greatest of the greats. Rizal is definitely Asia's greatest intellect that the Malayan race has produced. His greatness was observed in his literacy knowing various languages, and at the same time being a poet, a sportsman and so on. Education thus proves that it is the key from the bondage of hardships we continue to face way before the time of Rizal.

     From his childhood days up to his death, his colorful life was dedicated to his countrymen he dearly loves. Learning from history and conituing what he has started in portraying our situation will be the initial step in the attainment of Rizal's missions. The children are the hope of our nation and as adults, it's our responsilbilty to guide them the way Rizal's parents, Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonzo reared him.

     This year, as we celebrate his 144th birthday, may Dr. Jose P. Rizal continue to live in our hearts and minds as we traverse the realities in life towards the attainment of Teresita "Ningning" S. Lazaro's favorite saying goes "KAYANG-KAYA 'PAG SAMA-SAMA!" (PIO-Laguna)