On Sunday, 28 September 2025, a solemn and historic ceremony was held at the Consulate General of the Philippines in Hong Kong to formally charter the Knights of Rizal Great Bay Area (GBA) Chapter, marking a significant expansion of the Order’s presence in Greater China and East Asia.
The event was graced by esteemed dignitaries, most notably Sir Yongsoo Samuel Cho, KCR, Chapter Commander of Seoul and Area Commander of South Korea, who served as the Overseas Guest of Honor. He was accompanied by his wife, Ms. Maria Tricia Valdez, Chief Operating Officer of IEK HQ Philippines Holdings Inc., whose presence underscored the growing synergy between regional leadership and civic diplomacy.
Sir Cho’s invitation, extended by the Hong Kong Chapter, recognized his exemplary leadership and unwavering commitment to Rizalism in the Korean Peninsula. His presence, alongside Ms. Valdez, lent gravitas to the occasion and inspired the newly chartered members to uphold the ideals of patriotism, integrity, and service that define the Order.
The induction team was led by Sir Romulo Victor M. Israel Jr., KGOR, with the formal chartering of Sir Lewis Tei Luk, KCR as Commander of the GBA Chapter. Five postulants were knighted into the Order:
- Sir Chiu Chi Sing Cook, KCR
- Sir Ko Hiu Chen Samson, KCR
- Sir Li Kwok Ming Wilfred, KCR
- Sir Sun Kwun Tak Thomas, KCR
- Sir Yung Chun Keung David Michael, KCR
Their induction signaled a renewed commitment to Rizal’s vision of enlightened citizenship and peaceful reform across borders.
In a gesture of cultural solidarity, Sir Johnny, Hong Kong Chapter Commander, presented Certificates of Appreciation to supporters of his outreach initiative, Simoy ng Pag-Asa, which provided electric fans to local schools. He also received a replica bust of Dr. José P. Rizal, sponsored by the Knights of Rizal Hong Kong Chapter and presented by a member of the IHQ Chapter NCR, in his capacity as Hong Kong and Macau representative of the Rizal Centre Foundation of the Philippines (RCF).
Despite operating with modest resources, the Hong Kong Chapter demonstrated heartfelt hospitality and reverence for its honored guests. The ceremony served not only as a formal induction but also as a symbolic bridge—connecting Filipino heritage with the dynamic multicultural fabric of the Great Bay Area.
As the GBA Chapter embarks on its noble journey, the presence and guidance of seasoned leaders like Sir Yongsoo Samuel Cho and Ms. Maria Tricia Valdez are expected to fortify its foundations and inspire future generations of Rizalistas across East Asia.