By ROY C. MABASA
On a sweltering Sunday night, families gathered at Rizal Park to enjoy the cool breeze and each other’s company. But this particular evening was different, as it was the eve of Europe Day, a significant event for the European Union (EU).
EU Ambassador to the Philippines Luc Véron was grateful for the honor of celebrating Europe Day among the Filipino people and commemorating the founding of the EU in this national park.
The Rizal Monument and Dancing Fountain were to be illuminated in EU colors as part of the celebration, and Ambassador Véron expressed his gratitude to the National Parks and Development Committee and the Philippine tourism for making it happen.
Véron took a moment to share the history of Rizal Park, explaining that it started in 1820 with the completion of Paseo de Luneta. He mentioned that the shrine was inaugurated in 1913 on the 17th anniversary of the death of Jose Rizal, who was tragically executed at that very location. He also noted that the drinking fountain had been shipped all the way from Heidelberg, Germany, where Rizal had studied.
But the significance of the event was not lost on anyone, especially the European Union Delegation and member state embassies. Lighting the Rizal monument and dancing fountain was a “symbol of the strong partnership and friendship between the EU and the Philippines,” Véron said.
Europe Day itself celebrates peace and unity in Europe after the devastation of World War II. The commitment of European nations to prevent another war led to the formation of a strong political union of 27 nations, united in their diversity, and committed to being a reliable global partner.
The celebration of Europe Day in the Philippines, according to Véron, was an opportunity to recognize the friendship and partnership between the two countries.
As the Rizal Monument and Dancing Fountain were illuminated in EU colors, the crowd marveled at the beauty of the sight. It was a moment of celebration and reflection, a reminder of the importance of peace, unity, and friendship in a world where division and conflict often prevail.
The families at Rizal Park that night may not have fully understood the significance of the event, but they knew that it was a beautiful and meaningful moment that they were grateful to be a part of.
