June 17th, 2001 - 140th Birthday of Dr. Rizal
On Sunday, 17th June at 2-.30 p.m. in front of a crowd of over 100 people the Knights of Rizal and Maclariz held the Floral Tribute for the National Hero Dr. Jose Rizal. This was the 140th year of his birth and we were graced with the presence of H.E. Ambassador Cesar B. Bautista, Philippine Embassy accompanied by his wife and their son Dr. Lito Bautista.
Also in attendance were the mayor of Camden, Councillor Roger Robinson and his wife. At 2.30 p.m. two wreaths were laid at the bust of Dr. Jose Rizal by the Ambassador and the Mayor. A minute of silence was followed by the singing of the two National Anthems. H.E. Ambassador Bautista spoke about the life of Rizal, The mayor then responded with his address about the important role of Camden in the Filipino Community.
Sir Barry Bowman KGOR, then Area Commander for the UK and Ireland, told a story about the early years of Jose Rizal between 2 to 18. Immediately afterwards the guests were invited to witness the ceremonies performed by the Knights of Rizal and after that the afternoon was given over to the Angels Dance & Singing Group and singers from the Sampaguita Performing Group.
During the course of events of the day 3 young people were inducted into the Kapariz, the youth organisation of Rizal and Sir Barry said that this is the way forward for the next generation. These youngsters of today are the citizens of tomorrow.
As always at any Filipino events food and drinks were supplied and there was ample for everyone.
Sir Barry took the oppurtunity to thank H.E Ambassador and Mrs Bautista, the Mayor and of Camden and his wife, the staff of Chalk Farm Library, the Angels, the Sampaguita, the public who turned up in such large numbers and of course the London Chapter of the Knights of Rizal and Maclariz for all the hard work they did by providing all the food and drinks. Everybody made it a day of pride.