The Philippine embassy in Doha has underscored the historical significance of Qatar Red Crescent Society (QRCS)’s special gift to the Philippines in 2012.
Speaking at an event held yesterday to mark the 119th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Philippines’ national hero Dr Jose Rizal, the embassy’s assistant for political and economic affairs Sorhaya P Dilabakun said QRCS handed over an Arabic translation of Mi Ultimo Adios (My Last Farewell) - a famous poem written by Dr Rizal - to Philippine Red Cross  officials on October 1, 2012, in Manila.
The gift handover ceremony was led by QRCS secretary-general Saleh al-Mohannadi, according to the Philippine Information Agency.
Inscribed on a special plaque at the Rizal Shrine in Manila, the Arabic translation was later given to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines.
The embassy wants to highlight the “kind gesture” of QRCS, which has further strengthened the relationship between the two countries, officials said.
Dr Rizal was executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896, and wrote Mi Ultimo Adios on the eve of his execution.
“We remember him for his love of our country and it is important for us not to forget the sacrifices of our heroes in fighting for our liberty against oppression,” said Philippine ambassador Wilfredo Santos, who was joined by embassy and community officials at the event.
The envoy described Dr Rizal as a man of peace and a man of letters – “not a revolutionary in the traditional sense”.
“But his ideals kept the fire for revolution, for change, for liberty and it encouraged our countrymen to fight for a cause that eventually led to the establishment of the first republic in Asia,” he noted.
Dr Rizal is on top of the pantheon of Filipino heroes remembered not only in the Philippines but throughout the world where there are Filipinos, according to Santos, who thanked members of the community for celebrating the special occasion at the chancery yesterday.