AS another year begins, many of us contemplate making New Year's resolutions and adopting certain qualities to embody throughout the year. Some people choose to focus on studying, traveling, working, starting a business, or helping others.

During the 127th anniversary of the martyrdom of Dr. Jose Rizal, on December 30, 2023, Virgil Daniel Villaruz, a descendant of Rizal from General Paciano Rizal's lineage, shared the acronym P.O.G.I as an insight and a guide on how to become a better person with the right mindset and goals in life.

This refers to the qualities of being Positive, Organized, having Gratitude, and to live with Integrity.

The first and second qualities are having a positive outlook and being organized and disciplined. Villaruz explains that being a positive person and rejecting negative thinking can have a positive influence on those close to us.

"Being a positive, organized, and disciplined person are wonderful traits to have," he added.

The third quality is gratitude towards those closest to us and repaying their sacrifices.

"Gratitude is very important not only towards heroes who sacrificed their lives for our independence but also towards our parents and siblings who have worked hard and given their all for us. Let us always be grateful," he said.

The last trait, according to Villaruz, is living with integrity. Being honest, no matter how big or small the situation, goes a long way.

As kin of Dr. Rizal, Villaruz emphasized that the moral obligation to do noble things for our nation and people doesn't fall solely on them but on all of us by playing our roles in society.

 "Let us all remember that we can all be heroes in our own simple ways. May we all continue to be POGI. To those who work hard for our family, to government officials who tirelessly serve the nation, and to the youth who study hard to repay their parents and help our country, you are all the new generation of heroes, " he added. 

Meanwhile, Calamba City Mayor Roseller Rizal, another descendant of the national hero, emphasizeds the importance of acquiring knowledge to combat injustice and oppression around the world, just as the hero did during the Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines.

"Through education, we will attain wisdom. Oppressed cannot exist without oppressors. Our lives would be meaningless if we don't dedicate them to noble causes. We are witnesses to the unfortunate events happening in various parts of the world today. These include the use of violence to gain power, disregard for the lives of others, young or old, and the greed prevalent in the minds and hearts of leaders in towns or countries," Mayor Rizal said.

The local chief executive added that: "In the midst of these events, it is timely for us to revisit the lessons and teachings of Dr. Jose Rizal and his relentless efforts to help others. These thoughts form the foundation for the peaceful and prosperous life he wishes for all of us."

Rizal then acknowledged those who continue to contribute and help the nation, urging the younger generation to embrace the hero's nationalism and love for their country.

"This is a call to our fellow countrymen. Heroism did not die with Dr. Jose Rizal. In every aspect of our daily lives, there are people who embody such heroism. Individuals who, in their own ways, contribute to finding solutions for the challenges our city faces. Our fellow citizens who dedicate their time and share their talents to implement modern technologies and solutions so that our city can keep up with the rapid changes and progress in the world," the mayor said.

He added the annual commemoration of Rizal’s life and legacy remains true and genuine to the people of Calamba serving as an opportunity to evaluate peoples’ lives and strengthen their foundations and ideals.

“Even as we annually celebrate the heroism of Dr. Jose Rizal, the significance of it remains because of the solid foundation on the lessons he left us. May we continue to strive to make a significant contribution to the progress of our city and our country and to become an inspiration, especially to the youth of our present time.” (CH/PIA-Laguna)