30 June 2012- Philippine Ambassador to Switzerland Leslie J. Baja and Schaffhausen Mayor Thomas Feurer led the wreath-laying ceremony to mark the 151st birth anniversary of Philippine national hero Dr. Jose Rizal in Schaffhausen on June 19.
The annual wreath-laying ceremony, which has become a tradition between the Philippine Embassy in Berne and Schaffhausen, was also attended by officials of the Embassy and the Schaffhausen City Council and the Canton of Schaffhausen.
Also present during the ceremony were members of the local broadcast and print media as well as members of the local community.
In his speech, Mayor Feurer extolled Dr. Rizal and his contribution to the birth of the Philippine nation. He took pride in the fact that the Swiss legendary hero, Wilhelm Tell, became Dr. Rizal's political inspiration.
"Rizal was strongly inspired by the novel Wilhelm Tell, which was translated into Tagalog in the hope to also kindle the same independent spirit in his countrymen," Mayor Feurer said.
Ambassador Baja, in his remarks, thanked the Schaffhausen officials for their gracious hospitality. He said that the Philippines and Switzerland share a long history, going back to 150 years ago when Switzerland established in Manila its first consulate in Asia.
"The Philippines and Switzerland are natural partners because we share the same values-democracy, human rights, and rule of law," Ambassador Baja said. He likewise stated that Dr. Rizal has served as a cultural bridge between the Philippines and Switzerland.
The wreath-laying ceremony was followed by a short presentation on the City of Schaffhausen, including its industries and tourism sites. Mayor Feurer then hosted a luncheon for the Embassy officials during which possible areas for cooperation in cultural exchanges and activities were discussed.