Lacuna leads Rizal birthday rites

MANILA, Philippines — Manila mayor-elect Honey Lacuna yesterday led the commemoration of Jose Rizal’s 161st birthday at the Quirino Grandstand.

Lacuna led the wreath-laying rites in Rizal Park. She was accompanied by the national hero’s descendant Ester Azurin and National Historical Commission of the Philippines chairman Rene Escalante.

In a Facebook post, Lacuna described Rizal as an inspiration for his role in nation-building during the Spanish colonial period.

Meanwhile, roads were closed in Manila yesterday for the Asics Rock ‘n Roll marathon ahead of the commemoration of Manila Day on June 24.

The road closures caused massive traffic jams around the area, aggravated by heavy rains.