Today, we will witness a milestone in the history of the Knights of Rizal: The inauguration of the KOR Museum. And we at the National Historical Commission of the Philippines are grateful that the Knights of Rizal offered this museum in celebration of the 125th Anniversary of Philippine Independence and Nationhood from 2023-2026. In fact, the opening of this museum is the first significant activity of the 125th anniversary.

Let me take this opportunity to invite each and everyone to join the National Government in celebrating the birth of the nation. It will formally begin on March 4, 2023, or the 100-day countdown to the 125th anniversary of Philippine Independence on June 12, 2023. Let’s make our National Day a celebration of our lifetime, now that we are gradually enjoying the freedom the pandemic deprived us. Furthermore, please be informed that this year is also the 125th anniversary of Rizal Day.

I would also like to extend our gratitude to Sir Juan Castro, KGCR, a U.S.-based Filipino physician, for bequeathing to the KOR his precious collection of artworks straight from the U.S. Through our Young Historians Chapter or the KOR Sucesos namely Ian Alfonso, Xiao Chua, Jonathan Balsamo, and Mark Boado, the KOR Museum integrates 25 paintings about the important episodes in Philippine history by Filipino artists Danilo Libor and Ador de Vera. The design and branding were contributed by Project Saysay Inc., which is a partner of the NHCP in the Local Historical Committees Network.

We are also happy that KOR tapped Mr. Nick Legazpi in curating the museum. He was formerly a cultural worker in the government like us as part of the National Museum of the Philippines. And most importantly, we are happy that Sir Pablo S. Trillana III, KGCR never forget us in the National Historical Commission of the Philippines to be part of this museum. To the knowledge of everyone, Sir Pabling was our former chairman of the NHCP. The same regard is extended to our Commissioner Emmanuel Calairo who dignified this event by serving as the master of ceremonies.

I hope this museum will be as dynamic as Rizal. Thank you and congratulations.