In her remarks, Senator Loren Legarda, who has significantly contributed to fostering deep bilateral connections based on mutual respect and cooperation between the Philippines and Germany, emphasized Rizal’s lasting friendships formed during his time in Germany and remembered him as a global symbol of resilience, enlightenment, and hope. She highlighted the opportunity to strengthen these ties through her various initiatives, including promoting Philippine Studies in top German universities, advocating for cultural exchange and economic cooperation, and the reopening of the Philippine Consulate in Frankfurt. Senator Legarda also mentioned collaborations on climate resilience with Germany and looked forward to the Philippines’ upcoming role as the Guest of Honor Country during the 2025 Frankfurter Buchmesse. During the event, attendees also enjoyed a film showing of “Finding Rizal in a Time of Barriers,” which she conceptualized and envisioned to document Rizal’s significant journey through Germany. END
