Knights of Rizal FB Page

I am Sir Ernesto Pamolarco Jr., KCR, an active member of the Order of the Knights of Rizal, committed to upholding the ideals of Dr. José Rizal—promoting patriotism, education, integrity, and civic responsibility in service to our nation. My Journey as a Knight

I still remember the first time I wore the medallion of the Order of the Knights of Rizal—it rested against my chest not just as a symbol

of membership, but as a quiet reminder of a deeper responsibility. I was not merely joining an organization; I was stepping into a legacy that began over a century ago—on December 30, 1911, to be exact. It all started with Colonel Antonio C. Torres and eight other brave souls. These were not politicians or celebrities, just ordinary men with extraordinary reverence for our national hero, Dr. José Rizal. They rode on horseback during Rizal Day celebrations, embodying the spirit of old knights—chivalrous, courageous, and committed to a higher cause. I’ve often imagined what it must have felt like, galloping through Manila’s streets, not for spectacle, but to awaken a sleeping nation to the ideals of justice, education, and patriotism. In 1916, their admiration for Rizal took formal shape with the creation of the “Orden de Caballeros de Rizal,” a non-stock civic organization built not for profit, but for purpose. The names of its incorporators—Antonio C. Torres, Juan Flameño, Martin P. de Veyra, Jose A. del Barrio, and Jose S. Galvez—are more than just historical footnotes. To me, they are visionaries, men who laid the foundation of an institution that would later welcome me into its fold. I am proud to follow in the footsteps of Colonel Torres, who eventually became Manila’s Chief of Police and the Order’s first Supreme Commander. The list of Supreme Commanders that followed reads like a roll call of patriots—architects of culture and character. Their leadership, passed on like a torch through decades, lit the way for my own initiation into the Order. In 1951, the Order was granted a legislative charter through Republic Act 646—a rare honor. This law did more than recognize the Knights of Rizal; it institutionalized the values Rizal stood for. It gave us, the members, a sacred mandate: to spread his teachings, to foster discipline and civic virtue, and to guide our nation—quietly and diligently—toward justice and unity. As I studied this history, I was humbled by the vision of the senators and congressmen who championed this law. Their words resonate still: “Let this and future generations live the Rizal Way.”

That’s what drew me in—the Rizal Way. In every ceremony I attend, every project I join, and every speech I give under the banner of the Order, I am reminded of my personal duty. I think of Rizal’s quiet defiance, his intellect, his love for our country, and I ask myself: Am I living a life worthy of his legacy? The Order has given me not only a platform but a path. Through its brotherhood, I’ve found meaning beyond medals and titles. I’ve seen young people inspired by Rizal’s life. I’ve marched in parades, planted trees, donated books, and led discussions on civic responsibility. Yet none of these acts feel like obligations—they feel like expressions of gratitude. Being a Knight of Rizal isn’t about prestige. It’s about purpose. It’s about remembering a man who gave his life so we could have a nation. It’s about living not just for ourselves, but for others, for the Philippines, and for the generations yet to come. And so, I carry this medallion close to my heart—not as decoration, but as a daily reminder: I am a Knight. I will live the Rizal Way.