New York names street in Queens after Jose Rizal

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December 23, 2025 | 12:00am

MANILA, Philippines — An intersection in Woodside, Queens, home to one of the largest Filipino communities in New York City, has been officially co-named “Dr. José Rizal Way” in honor of the Philippine national hero and Filipino migrants.

The corner of Woodside Avenue and 58th Street was co-named through legislation spearheaded by Steven Raga, the first Filipino-American elected to the New York State Assembly, and sponsored by city council member Julie Won.

Won said the street co-naming recognizes Rizal’s influence on a neighborhood shaped by generations of Filipino immigrants and celebrates the community’s cultural contributions.

“It’s an honor to co-name an intersection in Woodside after Dr. José Rizal, the national hero for Filipinos in my district and beyond,” Won said. “This co-naming speaks to our ethos as a district of immigrants and honors the contributions and culture of our neighbors in the Filipino diaspora.”

During the unveiling ceremony on Dec. 12, Philippine consul general in New York Senen Mangalile linked Rizal’s historical legacy to the modern Filipino migrant experience.

Mangalile said Rizal’s struggle transcended geography, noting that the ideals he championed – equality, anti-colonialism and women’s rights – remain relevant today.

Mangalile drew parallels between Rizal’s global outlook and the resilience of Filipino migrants who continue to contribute to New York City’s multicultural landscape.

He also thanked the Filipino community, particularly the New York chapters of the Knights of Rizal, for their role in making the tribute possible.