Jose Rizal kin gives lecture at world's largest public library

CHICAGO – The great grandnephew of Dr. Jose Rizal delivered a lecture about the Philippine national hero at the famed Harold Washington Public Library, listed by Guinness Book of Records as the largest public library building in the world. Dr. Ramon G. Lopez, a descendant of Rizal's sibling Paciano, gave a talk entitled: “Rizal Dream: The past, present and the future" on May 11 at the Cindy Pritzker Auditorium of the library. Lopez spoke about his great granduncle's ideals and how they are relevant to the Philippines today and in the future. “The towering pillars of his legacy will always be moral and grand. Patriotism, education and service to the country and its people were the dreams and passion of our martyred hero and these are now the dreams and passion that need to be fulfilled for 92 million Filipinos," Lopez said. Chicago Public Library Director of Adult Services Craig Davis gave the welcome remarks during the event while Consul General Leo Herrera-Lim introduced Lopez as the keynote speaker. The event was organized by the Philippine Consulate General and the Chicago Public Library. The attendees included members of the Knights of Rizal, the Filipino American community leaders and Rizal’s advocates. Lopez’s lecture is part of the activities marking the year-round celebration of the 150th birth anniversary of Rizal that falls on June 19 this year. The activities aim to raise the public's awareness about Rizal’s life and works. - VVP, GMA News