31 December 2025 – The Philippine Consulate General (PCG) in Calgary, in collaboration with the Knights of Rizal – Airdrie & Calgary Chapters and the Filipino Airdrie Association (FAA), led a solemn wreath-laying ceremony on the 129th death anniversary of Dr. José Rizal.
On this day, “we honor not only a hero but a set of ideals” mentioned by Consul General Sarne during her remarks. She added that Rizal taught us “that patriotism is not measured by the distance with our homeland but how faithfully we carry his values through our work, service and concern for one another”.
The event was graced by the presence of Member of Parliament for Airdrie-Cochrane Blake Richards, whose attendance underscored the strong relationship between the Filipino community and Canadian public institutions, as well as the shared commitment to honoring history and cultural heritage. Councillors of the City of Airdrie were also in attendance, with Deputy Mayor Ron Chapman representing Airdrie City Mayor Heather Spearman. In his remarks, Deputy Mayor Chapman mentioned that it is one of Airdrie’s pride to be the home of the Rizal monument. “The monument is not only a space to gather and learn the lessons Rizal left behind but also a reminder of his enduring legacy – his devotion to the Filipino people, and the pursuit of freedom, dignity, and justice,” he added.
The ceremony was livestreamed through the Philippine Consulate General in Calgary’s official Facebook page, allowing Filipinos across Alberta and Saskatchewan to join in the commemoration virtually.
Post expressed its appreciation to the Knights of Rizal, the Filipino Airdrie Association, community partners and attendees for their continued support in preserving and promoting Philippine history, culture, and national pride among overseas Filipinos in Alberta. END
PR No. 01-2026
