PHILIPPINE EMBASSY IN RABAT PAYS TRIBUTE TO DR. JOSE RIZAL ON THE 128TH ANNIVERSARY OF HIS MARTYRDOM

RABAT, 29 January 2025 – In commemoration of the 128th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose P. Rizal, the Embassy of the Philippines in Rabat, Morocco donated the French edition of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo to the Bibliothèque Nationale du Royaume du Maroc (BNRM, National Library of the Kingdom of Morocco) on 29 January 2025.

BNRM Director Ms. Samira El Malizi receives the French edition of Dr. Jose Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo

In keeping with this year’s theme, “Rizal sa Bagong Pilipinas: Buhay at Aral, Aming Nilalandas” (Rizal in the New Philippines: Life and Teachings, As Our Guide), Ambassador Leslie J. Baja handed over the novels to Ms. Samira El Malizi, Director of the BNRM. Ambassador Baja underscored the significance of these publications in awakening a sense of nationalism among Filipinos and inspiring the independence movement from Spain. Noting the shared colonial history of the Philippines and Morocco, he echoed Rizal’s belief that the pen is mightier than the sword in overcoming social injustice and oppression, upholding national identity, and achieving independence. Ambassador Baja conveyed his appreciation to the BNRM for the opportunity of donating Rizal’s novels to the library, and expressed his hope that this initiative will further promote awareness of the two countries, and deepen the understanding of the history and culture of the Filipino people.

Ambassador Baja receives a token of appreciation from BNRM.

Director El Malizi welcomed the Embassy’s initiative and conveyed appreciation for contributing a valuable piece of Philippine history to the library collection. She also expressed hope for a deeper collaboration between the library and the Embassy, and broached the possibility of entering into a cooperation agreement with the National Library of the Philippines especially as the two countries will celebrate 50 years of relations in 2025. END