Liwasang Rizal, City of Manila
30 December 2015

President Benigno S. Aquino III kicked off the commemoration of Rizal Day in the country by leading the flag ceremony in Luneta Park to honor the 119th anniversary of the martyrdom of the Philippine national hero, Dr. Jose P. Rizal.

Aside from the usual observance of Rizal Day, one of the highlights of today’s ceremony was the fly-by of 40 newly acquired air assets of the Armed Forces of the Philippines (AFP), which includes 15 SF-260M trainer aircraft, ten T4-1D planes, eight AW-109 helicopters, three Bell helicopters, and two UH-1H helicopters.

Bearing the theme, “Rizal 2015: Dangal ng Pilipino, Gabay sa Pagbabago,” the nationwide celebration serves as a reminder of the sacrifices of Rizal and other notable Filipino heroes who fought for the country’s freedom.

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