On the 161st anniversary of Dr. José Rizal's birth (and Father's Day), the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) erected a historical marker on the national hero's monument.

monument

Ms. Carminda Arevalo, Executive Director of the NHCP, lead the installation of the historical marker alongside NHCP Chairman Rene Escalante, Philippine Ambassador to Canada Rodolfo Robles, Consul General Zaldy Patron, Alberta Culture Minister Ron Orr, and Airdrie City Mayor Peter Brown. 

Patron went on to talk about why this monument becoming a historical marker is very important.

"This is a very significant project for us because it symbolizes the 175,000-strong Filipino community here in Alberta. This represents our national identity and cultural heritage."

Alberta Culture Minister Ron Orr talks about the significance of the historical marker for the province of Alberta.

"It is important for Alberta that we join the Filipino community in the celebration of one of their national heroes. I think it's important because there's a large number of Filipino immigrants who live in Alberta. They're wonderful people, they're friendly, gracious, and great workers."

Fathers Day

Airdrie Mayor Peter Brown is more than happy to see something like this come to our city.

"We are showcasing for our community and for anyone who wants to come here that everyone's welcome. We don't judge where you came from or what you do, and it's all about education."

Brown invites everybody to go and visit the historical marker when they have some time down at Nose Creek Park.

The marker measuring 27 x 35 inches is made of cast iron and was shipped from the Philippines. 

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