About Us
We're Building Something
That Lasts.
Why We Exist
The Knights of Rizal was founded to keep alive the ideals of Dr. José Rizal — the Philippine national hero who believed that education, unity, and civic courage could transform a nation.
But here in Central Florida, we're more than a historical society. We're a living community — families sharing meals, students finding mentors, professionals building networks, and retirees passing down traditions to the next generation.
Whether you're deeply connected to your Filipino roots or just discovering them, this is a place where you belong.
What We're Building
A community where every Filipino in Central Florida — and every friend of the Philippines — has a home. Where young people see role models who look like them. Where families celebrate their heritage together. Where professionals give back to the community that raised them.
We envision a chapter that's not just active, but alive — hosting events people actually want to attend, running programs that actually make a difference, and building friendships that last a lifetime.
A Legacy Since 1911
The Knights of Rizal was founded in Manila on December 30, 1911 — the 15th anniversary of Dr. José Rizal's martyrdom at Bagumbayan (now Luneta Park). What began as a small group of Filipino patriots has grown into a global organization with chapters in over 30 countries across six continents.
Chartered by the Philippine government through Republic Act No. 646, the Knights of Rizal is the only civic organization in the Philippines granted a legislative charter — a recognition of our role as custodians of Rizal's legacy.
Members are inducted through formal ceremonies where they don the Barong Tagalog and receive the sash of the Order. But beyond the ceremony, what keeps people is the community — the friendships, the shared purpose, and the pride of being part of something bigger than yourself.
Ranks of the Order
Members grow through ranks based on service and leadership — a journey of personal and civic growth.
Knight of Rizal (KR)
Entry rank upon induction into the Order.
Knight Officer of Rizal (KOR)
Awarded for meritorious service to the chapter.
Knight Commander of Rizal (KCR)
Recognized for outstanding leadership and civic contributions.
Knight Grand Officer of Rizal (KGOR)
Bestowed for exceptional and sustained service to the Order.
Knight Grand Cross of Rizal (KGCR)
The highest rank, reserved for extraordinary lifetime achievement.
Our Chapter Leaders
Real people who volunteer their time to keep this community strong.
Sir Al Yap, KCR
Chapter Commander
Knight Commander of Rizal
A respected Filipino-American business leader in Central Florida, Sir Al serves as Director of Finance at MDP Restaurant Group. He brings strategic vision and a deep commitment to community service to his role as Chapter Commander.
Sir Francis "Franco" Caparas, KCR
Deputy Chapter Commander
Knight Commander of Rizal
Sir Franco is a dedicated community organizer and civic leader who works tirelessly to strengthen Filipino-American ties in Central Florida. As Deputy Commander, he supports chapter operations and membership growth.
Sir Mark Changcoco, KCR
Chapter Chancellor
Knight Commander of Rizal
Sir Mark serves as the chapter's Chancellor, overseeing governance, communications, and chapter records. His organizational skills and passion for Filipino heritage keep the chapter running smoothly.
Officer headshot photos coming soon. Interested in meeting our leaders? Join us at an upcoming event.
115+
Years of Service
30+
Countries
500+
Chapters Worldwide
50,000+
Members Globally
Sound Like Your Kind of Community?
You don't need to know everything about Rizal or Filipino history. You just need to care about community. We'll take it from there.
Become a Member