Question & AnswerQ&A (Republic Act No. 646)
The official name of the corporation established is KNIGHTS OF RIZAL in English and Orden de Caballeros de Rizal in Spanish.
The primary purpose is to study, inculcate, and propagate the teachings of Dr. Jose Rizal among Filipinos, promote patriotism and Rizalian chivalry, and organize commemorative programs in honor of Dr. Jose Rizal.
The principal office of the Knights of Rizal is located in the City of Manila, Philippines.
The corporation has perpetual succession, power to sue and be sued, hold real and personal property, solicit and receive contributions, receive donations by gift or bequest, adopt and alter a corporate seal, conduct business in Manila and elsewhere, make and adopt by-laws and regulations consistent with Philippine laws, and perform acts necessary to accomplish its purposes.
All persons of legal age, good moral character and reputation, who sympathize with the corporation's purposes and are unanimously approved by the Supreme Council upon written application endorsed by at least two active members.
The general administration is governed by a Supreme Council (Board of Directors) of nine members vested with full powers and authority to act on behalf of the corporation.
Five or more persons of legal age and good moral character residing outside Manila may form a chapter upon approval of a written petition to the Supreme Council.
It is unlawful for any person to falsely or fraudulently claim to be a member or agent of the Knights of Rizal; violators may be punished with imprisonment up to six months, a fine up to five hundred pesos, or both.
Yes, the corporation can receive donations and contributions from the government or any entity, and such funds must be solely expended to promote the purposes of the corporation.
The Act took effect upon its approval on June 14, 1951.