Of memory and duty: NYC Knights of Rizal Chapter admits new members

NEW YORK CITY—On December 26, members of the Knights of Rizal New York Chapter convened at the Philippine Center in Manhattan to commemorate the 129th anniversary of the execution of José Rizal. The observance, conducted sub auspiciis memoriae et officii—under the charge of memory and duty—also marked the formal induction of new members and chapter officers into the Order.

The program opened with a wreath-laying ceremony in the Philippine Center lobby. From there, the assembly proceeded to Kalayaan Hall, where the induction rites were conducted secundum ritum ordinatum, in accordance with established ceremonial protocol.

Before the knighting began, the hall was darkened. From the rear annex, the candidates—blindfolded—were led into the hall as a bell sounded, marking their passage through the central aisle toward the stage. The rites were conducted with the blindfolds in place. Upon completion of the ritual sequence, the blindfolds were removed, and the candidates swore their oaths under solemn affirmation. Each candidate then approached the stage individually, knelt upon a pillow, and was formally knighted with a ceremonial sword. Sponsors subsequently affixed the insignia of the Order to the newly inducted members. At the conclusion of the rite, the new knights were welcomed on stage by their fellow members. The ceremony advanced with deliberation and continuity, without interruption.

The individuals knighted as Knights of Rizal were Sir Mario Dalman, KR; Sir John Dajao, KR; Sir Harry Go, KR; and Sir Father Julian Jagudilla, KR.

The ceremony was officiated by senior members of the Order, including Sir Roger Alama, KGCR; Sir Elmer Cato, KGOR; Sir Rely Manacay, KCR; Consul General Sir Senen T. Mangalile, KGOR; Sir Emilio Quinez, KGCR; and Sir Dean Suba, KGCR.

Sir Roger Alama—founder of the Knights of Rizal New York Chapter in 1992—addressed the assembly. He reflected on the chapter’s origins and emphasized the importance of disciplina and officium in sustaining Rizal’s legacy. He noted that life outside the Philippines required heightened attention to conduct and purpose, and underscored education as central to the Order’s mission, shaping both character and civic responsibility.

Sir Ramesh Buzueta, the incoming Chapter Commander, then presided over the induction of chapter officers. His remarks were brief and procedural, describing leadership as a charge held ad tempus—for a time—and sustained through consistency and service. He formally inducted the officers in accordance with the statutes and customs of the Order.

The newly inducted officers of the Knights of Rizal New York Chapter are: Sir Ramesh Buzueta, Chapter Commander; Sir Cayetano Paderanga, Deputy Chapter Commander; Sir Arman David, Chapter Auditor; Sir Harley Cajote, Chapter Chancellor; Sir Quinn Aranez, Chapter Exchequer; Sir Fred Agcaoili, Chapter Pursuivant; Sir Realino Santos, Chapter Archivist; Sir Gabby Cahatol Casas, Deputy Chapter Pursuivant; and Sir Bill Gleason, Deputy Chapter Exchequer.

Sir Father Julian Jagudilla, KR, delivered a message on behalf of the newly knighted members. He expressed gratitude for admission into the Order while emphasizing that knighthood signifies responsibility rather than status. He observed that Rizal’s teachings call for patriotism expressed through character, sacrifice, and commitment to truth and justice. He affirmed a collective pledge to serve the Filipino people and to preserve Philippine history and values for future generations, concluding with a call to continue in service to God, country, and fellow Filipinos.

As part of their knighting, members swore an oath affirming adherence to the principles embodied in José Rizal’s life and writings. Their obligations include continued study of Rizal’s works and historical context, engagement with Philippine history and civic thought, and observance of ethical standards in public and private life. Members are expected to conduct themselves with integrity in professional and community settings and to uphold the values articulated in the Order’s statutes. These duties reflect a principle frequently associated with Rizal: Non omnis moriar—I shall not wholly die—affirming that ideas endure through responsibility and action.

Participation in the educational, cultural, and commemorative work of the Knights of Rizal is required. This includes support for lectures, discussions, outreach initiatives, and memorial observances, consistent with Rizal’s conviction often rendered as Educatio est fundamentum libertatis—Education is the foundation of freedom.

The Knights of Rizal defines itself as a civic and patriotic order. Members are expected to serve faithfully through active participation, fulfillment of assigned responsibilities, mentorship of prospective members, and cooperation with chapter leadership, reflecting the civic principle attributed to Rizal: Officium civis est patriae servire—The duty of the citizen is to serve the nation.

This article originally appeared at https://businessmirror.com.ph/2026/01/03/of-memory-and-duty-nyc-knights-of-rizal-chapter-admits-new-members/?utm_source=chatgpt.com.