Breaking from tradition, Masonic District RIII-D held its annual commemoration of Bro. Dr. Jose P. Rizal's martyrdom at the grounds of the Gapan City Hall which also occasioned the inauguration of the National Hero's monument that was erected through the efforts of the General Llanera Memorial Lodge No. 168. Similar wreath offering ceremonies were previously held at the grounds of the Cabanatuan City Hall.
This year's commemoration rites was co-hosted by the Gapan City government under the leadership of Citys Mayor Christian Tinio who is shown speaking in the photo below, and past District Deputy Grand Master and City Vice-Mayor Bro. Rodel T. Matias (3rd from left) who is also shown with incumbent District Deputy Grand Master Bro. Mariolito O. Carlos (2nd from left) at the National Hero's new monument.
After the ceremonies, the newly elected Wardens and Masters of all Lodges under the jurisdiction of Masonic District RIII-D proceeded to the General Llanera Lodge No. 168 Masonic Temple where they took their proficiency examinations with the District Deputy Grand Master presiding as shown in the photo below. Masonic regulation requires that all incoming Wardens and Masters must pass the proficiency examination before they can be formally installed as such.