The Rizal Monument and the Musical Dancing Fountain in Rizal Park were illuminated on May 4 in the European Union (EU) flag blue and yellow colors by the National Parks and Development Committee to commemorate Europe Day.
Dubbed as a celebration of peace and unity in Europe, Europe Day is held every year on May 9, marking the anniversary of the historic ‘Schuman Declaration’ that set out the idea of a new form of cooperation between European nations that would make war between themselves unthinkable.
This declaration led to the establishment of the European Communities, now the European Union – a union of 27 European countries founded on the values of respect for human rights and dignity, freedom, democracy, equality and the rule of law. Since its establishment, the EU is now a global political and economic actor.
In the Philippines, EU Ambassador Massimo Santoro said Europe Day is an opportunity to highlight the founding of the European Union and its strong partnership and friendship with the country.
Expressing his gratitude to the National Parks and Development Committee for illuminating the two historic landmarks within Rizal Park, Ambassador Santoro said, “We are honored to light with European colors of blue and yellow the monument dedicated to the Philippine national hero Jose Rizal this weekend. Sana maraming Pilipino ang humanga sa mga kulay na ito.”
The celebration was witnessed by ambassadors of the EU Member States’ embassies, officials from the National Parks and Development Committee and the Department of Foreign Affairs, and representatives from various media organizations.
Rizal Park is seen to have direct connection to Europe. Inaugurated in June 2011 in time for Rizal’s 150th birth anniversary, Noli Me Tangere Garden features the Wilhelmsfeld drinking fountain where Rizal used to drink from during his stay in 1886 in Germany. The red sandstone fountain was donated to the Philippine government on December 30, 1964 as a symbol of German-Filipino friendship.
The bust of Ferdinand Blumentritt – Rizal’s friend who campaigned for Philippine independence – can also be found in the garden.
