QUEZON CITY, Philippines — Hundreds of students from Quezon City Science High School and San Francisco High School participated in the National Historical Commission of the Philippines’ (NHCP) Karaban ng Kasaysayan para sa Kabataan held at Book Nook SM North EDSA on Friday, June 19, as part of the celebration of the 165th birth anniversary of national hero Dr. Jose Rizal.
The educational caravan introduced students to lesser-known aspects of Rizal’s life through interactive lectures and hands-on activities aimed at deepening their appreciation of Philippine history and heritage.
One of the highlights of the event was the lecture titled “Basic Archaeology for Teens,” where students were given the opportunity to experience the work of archaeologists by simulating excavations and identifying ecofacts and artifacts. The activity showcased Rizal’s contributions to archaeology, a field often overshadowed by his accomplishments as a writer, physician, and nationalist.
Participants also attended a Water Education session conducted by the Maynilad Water Academy, where they learned about the journey of water from its source to household taps and the importance of water conservation and management.
Students actively engaged in the discussions, enthusiastically participating in question-and-answer sessions following each lecture. As part of the program, attendees also received books written and translated by Rizal, further encouraging historical literacy among the youth.
According to the NHCP, the annual Karaban ng Kasaysayan para sa Kabataan seeks to bring Philippine history closer to young Filipinos through educational and interactive activities.
The event also highlighted Rizal’s lesser-known achievements beyond literature and medicine. Aside from being an ophthalmologist, painter, sculptor, and author, Rizal was also involved in archaeological work and engineered a dam in Dapitan to improve the community’s irrigation system.
The program was organized by the NHCP in partnership with Book Nook SM North EDSA and the Department of Education National Capital Region Schools Division Office.
Organizers said more editions of the Karaban ng Kasaysayan para sa Kabataan are expected in the coming months as part of continuing efforts to promote historical awareness among Filipino youth.
