José Rizal Heritage Award 2026 – A Legacy That Leaves Its Mark

Basel, 3 October 2026 – An evening dedicated to commitment, responsibility and international solidarity: on 3 October 2026, the historic Hotel Victoria in Basel hosted the fourth presentation of the José Rizal Heritage Award (JRHA). The prestigious award honours individuals whose work embodies the timeless ideals of the Philippine national hero and visionary, Dr José Rizal – courage, education, social responsibility, service to humanity and intercultural understanding.

The distinguished evening was hosted by the Award’s Co-Presidents, Lady Estrelleta Borda Ruppert, President of Las Damas de Rizal Switzerland, and Sir Stephan U. Breu, KGOR, Area Commander Switzerland of the Knights of Rizal. Under their leadership, the evening once again highlighted the important role the Award has come to play as a bridge between people, cultures and different areas of social responsibility. Among the guests were diplomats, academics, artists, community leaders, as well as representatives of the Philippine and Swiss communities.

Since 2023, the José Rizal Heritage Award has honoured individuals whose commitment extends far beyond their immediate personal or professional circles and, in particular, has an impact on an international level. Whether in education, social entrepreneurship, humanitarian work, the arts or social development, the Laureates share a common determination to assume responsibility and initiate lasting change.

In this way, the Award brings José Rizal’s legacy into the present day. Rizal regarded education and personal action as a responsibility towards society. The José Rizal Heritage Organization and the José Rizal Heritage Fund continue this principle, supporting projects that empower disadvantaged people and open up new opportunities and perspectives for them.

The José Rizal Heritage Award is therefore far more than a distinction. It is a tribute to exceptional commitment – and, at the same time, a powerful call to action: to help shape a fairer, more peaceful and more inclusive world with courage, compassion and a strong sense of responsibility. José Rizal’s legacy lives on wherever people are willing not merely to speak about change, but to take responsibility for bringing it about themselves.

This year, among the other Laureates, Prof. Dr Dr Dr h.c. Franz Josef Radermacher was honoured with the José Rizal Heritage Award 2026 in recognition of his work in the field of sustainable development.