The longstanding ties between the City of Calamba, Laguna, and the Municipality of Wilhelmsfeld continue to grow through their shared connection to Dr. José Rizal and new cultural and literary exchanges facilitated by the Philippine Consulate General in Frankfurt.
On 7 October 2026, Calamba City Mayor Roseller “Ross” Rizal visited Wilhelmsfeld and donated a collection of Philippine books, including works by Filipino authors translated into German, to the Municipality of Wilhelmsfeld. The books were received by Wilhelmsfeld Mayor Dr. Tobias Dangel at the Municipal Hall during the launch of “Bridges of Words,” a new bookshelf connecting Calamba and Wilhelmsfeld through Philippine literature.
The initiative builds on the 2011 Twin City Agreement between Calamba City and Wilhelmsfeld, as well as Rizal’s historical connection to the town, where he stayed with Pastor Karl Ullmer and his family and completed his final work on Noli Me Tangere in 1886.
“Bridges of Words” also contributes to the continuing legacy of the Philippines’ Guest of Honour participation at the Frankfurt Book Fair 2025, bringing Philippine literature beyond the book fair and into German communities.
The launch was attended by National Book Development Board Executive Director Charisse Aquino-Tugade, Rex Bookstore President Atty. Dominador Buhain, other Philippine publishers, members of the Wilhelmsfeld Municipal Council and other stakeholders.
The visit followed Mayor Rizal’s participation on 5 October in the Rizal Historic Trail, where he was welcomed by the Commander of the Knights of Rizal Wilhelmsfeld-Heidelberg Chapter, Mr. Herbert Ehses. The trail, supported by the Philippine Consulate General, the Office of Senator Legarda, and other partners, traces Rizal’s historical connection to Wilhelmsfeld and Heidelberg.
Through these initiatives, the connection between Rizal’s hometown and the German community where he once lived continues to take on new life — through shared history, literature, and people-to-people ties.
BRIDGES OF WORDS
RIZAL HIKING TRAIL
