The Rizal Monument and the Musical Dancing Fountain in Rizal Park lit up tonight in the blue and yellow colors of the European Union flag for the celebration of the founding of the European Union.
European Union Ambassador to the Philippines H. E. Luc Véron said the illumination of these two iconic spots in Rizal Park is also an opportunity to highlight the partnership and friendship between the European Union and the Philippines especially as this year marks the 60th anniversary of the bilateral diplomatic relations.
The lighting ceremonies were a joint initiative of the EU Delegation to the Philippines and the National Parks and Development Committee.
The Honorable Foreign Affairs Undersecretary for Civilian Security and Consular Affairs Jesus S. Domingo, Belgian Ambassador Michel Parys, Finnish Ambassador Juha Pyykkö, Netherland Deputy Ambassador Robert vander Hum, EU Deputy Head of Delegation Dr Ana Isabel Sanchez Ruiz, Polish Embassy Deputy Head of Mission Ms. Anna Krzak-Danel, Czech Embassy Deputy Ambassador Dalibor Micka, Swedish Deputy Head Danilo Dovgoborets, French Embassy Political Counsellor Thomas Rollet and Hungarian Consul Balázs Rátkai attended the event. Ms Florizza Buclatin, Division Chief, represented the National Parks and Development Committee.
European Connection
Rizal Park has many connections to Europe. Rediscovering the national park is also rediscovering the history of the Philippines and the Filipino people.
Rizal Park’s history started in 1820 with the completion of the Paseo de Luneta while the shrine was inaugurated in 1913 during the 17th death anniversary of Rizal. The drinking fountain in the Park was shipped all the way from Heidelberg (Germany) where Rizal also studied.
The European Garden or the Noli Me Tangere Garden has drawn inspiration from Europe.
The Heroes’ Square in Intramuros, Manila through the kindness of the Honorary Consulate of Georgia will also be illuminated from 6 to 11 May 2024. Two other organisations, De La Salle University and the National Museum of the Philippines, will also join in the celebrations by way of lighting up their structures in EU colors this May 2024.