By Sir Amando Bernal-Respicio Abellana Boncales and Lady Janice Delima Tentler
CHICAGO, IL — On January 12, 2025, the Filipino-American community bid a heartfelt farewell to two esteemed diplomats from the Philippine Consulate General in Chicago: Consul Ryan Gener, Consul for the Economic and Political Section, and Consul Noly Dulay. The occasion, a Despedida Party at the iconic Bacolod Restaurant, gathered consulate officers, Knights of Rizal members, and colleagues to honor their invaluable contributions.
The event was a warm celebration of gratitude and camaraderie, marked by tributes highlighting the consuls’ tireless efforts in strengthening ties between the Philippines and the Midwest and their unwavering commitment to advocating for the welfare of Filipinos in the region.
A Legacy of Rizalian Pride
Sponsored by Sir Mariano Santos of Pinoy Newsmagazine and the Knights of Rizal, Central USA, the evening was dedicated to celebrating the enduring legacy of Dr. José Rizal. The event highlighted his timeless ideals of unity, patriotism, and cultural pride, inspiring the Filipino-American community. Attendees reflected on Rizal’s profound impact on Philippine history and his relevance to modern diaspora communities.
Special recognition was given to Consul Ryan Gener, a Knight Commander of Rizal (KCR) and former commander of the Maynilad Chapter. His dedication to promoting Rizal’s heroism and fostering a deeper appreciation for Filipino heritage was celebrated, underscoring his pivotal role in bridging cultural values and contemporary identity within the Filipino-American experience.
During his tenure, the Knights of Rizal organized activities, including community lectures, exhibitions of Rizal memorabilia, and events commemorating the national hero’s birth and death anniversaries at Chicago’s Rizal Monument in Margate Park.
Retracing Rizal’s Footsteps in America
Among Consul Gener’s most remarkable projects was his research into Dr. Rizal’s 1888 visit to the United States, including his one-day stop in Chicago. By delving into historical archives, Gener aimed to retrace Rizal’s journey and establish commemorative markers to help the younger Filipino-Americans remain connected to their heritage.
“This is about preserving culture,” Gener remarked. “It’s about inspiring second and third-generation Filipino-Americans to embrace their roots and take pride in our shared history.”
Photo Courtesy: Alegre de Pilipinas
A Vibrant Farewell and a Call to Action
As Consul Gener returns to the Philippines, his contributions remain a source of inspiration. The Knights of Rizal, Central USA, plan to build on his initiatives by organizing cultural events and projects to celebrate Rizal’s legacy. His efforts have fostered connections within the Filipino-American community and supported the establishment of monuments honoring Rizal, including one in Lima, Peru.
In his farewell message, Consul Gener emphasized the importance of community involvement:
“One does not have to be in government to serve the Philippines. Rizal called on all of us to embody intellectual and moral courage. It is up to us to continue that journey.”
Photo Courtesy: Alegre de Pilipinas
Looking Ahead
The Despedida Party was not just a farewell but also a celebration of cultural advocacy and an encouragement for future generations to take on leadership roles. As the Chicago Filipino-American community bids farewell to Consul Gener, they reflect on his dedication to Rizalian ideals and the importance of continuing to honor those values.
As Consul Ryan Gener returns to the Philippines, his contributions to promoting cultural pride, unity, and patriotism will be remembered and appreciated across the Midwest and beyond.
Published by Anne C.
