GERIZAL Module 2 Final Output

voices of a revolution GERIZAL Module 2 Final Output Content produced by: History Magazine Angelo Christian Balagtas Macaranas, Percival Martinez, Miguel James Narvaja, Shawn Quijano Gill Whenzel Ramas, Knyll Adelayne Sajiin, Shaun Josh Edited by: Knyll Adelayne Ramas Sajiin, Shaun Josh

baTle of Contents 03 05 When Death 19th Century Gives Life Filipino Nationalism 08 11 A Spanish Irony The Awakening 13 of a Nation The Continuing Struggle for Nationalism 15 To you, 124 years from now. 1

17 20 21 June 19, 1861: A True Spanish \"You will never be The First Cries of Jose Rizal one of us.\" Revolution 23 25 Ang Jose Rizal's Repormistang Journey Towards Rizal Philippine Independence 26 Ang Nasyonalistang Rizal 27 The Martyr and Nationalist Who Inspired the Revolution of 1896 2

when This is the story of how the death of three Death innocent priests gave birth to Filipino Gives nationalism. Life GomBurZa is an abbreviation of the written by Angelo Christian Balagtas surnames of three Filipino Catholic priests, namely Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Before their deaths, the three priests Jacinto Zamora. They were executed at fought for the equal treatment of Filipino Bagumbayan on February 28, 1872, on priests and secularization. charges of subversion and being involved with the 1872 Cavite mutiny. They died at At a young age, Rizal was affected by the age of 85, 30, and 35, respectively. these events as his brother, Paciano, was a student of Padre Burgos. Rizal Their death was shrouded in mystery and dedicated the first of his two famous controversy as there was no clear evidence novels, El Filibusterismo, to the that supported the claims that they were GomBurZa. On its dedication page, involved in the mutiny. However, it is he declared that Religion, believed that the priests were executed due Government, and the entire to the Spanish friars. Philippines do not acknowledge the sins charged against them. He wishes to hold the Spaniards accountable for their deaths and restore their honor. In a letter written by Rizal to Mariano Ponce on April 18th of 1899, Rizal mentions that without the execution of the three priests, he would have become a Jesuit priest who wrote the complete opposite of Noli Me Tangere. To add, he attributes the awakening of his, his fellow reformists, or any other person’s sense of nationalism. 3

Ultimately, the death of GomBurZa signified the birth of national awareness, and in the process, the birth of a nation. Rizal was not the only Filipino affected by the 1872 execution. As his first novel’s dedication stated, the entire Philippines declared Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora as martyrs. In doing so, they acknowledge not only the innocence of the Filipino priests but also the unjust nature of the Spanish Government and Spanish Priests. They realized that it was not only the priests that experienced abuse and unjust treatment. Finally, after years of suffering and the death of Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, the Filipino nation was born. Filipinos were finally aware of their suffering and this shared experience of being abused further strengthened their sense of pride and nationalism to fight for their freedom and independence. 4

19TH CENTURY FILIPINO NATIONALISM written by Shawn Karlsten A. Narvaja The inspirational history of Filipino nationalism is filled with outstanding people and crucial events that have shaped the nation's identity. The Filipino people have been motivated by a strong yearning for independence, justice, and self- determination from the era of Spanish colonialism up until the contributions of individuals like Emilio Jacinto, Apolinario Mabini, and Dr. Jose Rizal. This article explores the economic, political, cultural, and religious transformations that occurred in the 19th century as we take a closer look at the various elements that have influenced the creation of Filipino nationalism. We also explore the interesting effects of the Galleon Trade and the Renaissance, looking at how they had a significant and long-lasting influence on the nation's intellectual and cultural development The Emergence of Filipino National The late 19th-century Ilustrados, a new Consciousness generation of educated Filipinos, were The Philippines still bear the scars of the crucial to the development of Filipino Spanish colonial past, which brought the nationalism. They sought reforms and Spanish language, religion, and culture changes that would be advantageous to with them. A unified Filipino identity and the Filipino people and questioned the the growth of national consciousness were validity of Spanish colonial rule. It took made possible by this cultural absorption several centuries for the Filipino people and resistance. Yet, one of the main to become aware of their own national barriers to the nationalist movement was identity. In order to unite Filipinos the absence of national identity among against the conquerors, the Ilustrados Filipinos, as the suppression of indigenous played a crucial role in advancing the practices and traditions led to a sense of notion of a common Filipino identity and inferiority among Filipinos. culture. 5

The Power of Education in Filipino students studying in Spain also Developing Nationalism played a crucial role in shaping their nationalistic ideas. The exposure to the The growth of nationalism in the intellectual movement in Europe led to Philippines during the European the formation of various student intellectual movement was a significant organizations that advocated for reforms turning point in the country's history. and a sense of nationhood. These Students were encouraged to express organizations served as a platform for their ideas and opinions, which led to a students to express their opinions and sense of national identity. In this article, push for change, which were we explore how education played a instrumental in spreading nationalistic pivotal role in the development of ideas and inculcating pride in Filipino culture and nationalism in the identity. Philippines. Religious Progress and Its Impact One significant step towards progress on Nationalism was the return of the Jesuits to the Philippines, who provided Spanish- The development of education impacted speaking teachers for primary education. the religious progress of the church to This move symbolized hope for the people. With the spread of Philippine education and sparked a nationalism through education, people feeling of nationalism among Filipinos. were increasingly aware of the abuses of Through their education, students were the Spanish government. Ilustrados were exposed to various fields of study, such increasingly anti-friar and even anti- as literature, science, and philosophy, Catholic. As the government continued which contributed to the cultivation of a to fail to meet the public's needs, the sense of nationalism in their hearts. Spanish always pushed Filipinos back to their religion in Catholicism. This way, they could take full advantage of the Filipinos since the friars and the church were an integral part of the government during that time. Strong influences of the church and the friars on the Filipino people explains why nationalists such as Rizal made them their main targets, as they could use their power as leverage to make the people do whatever they wanted. Economic Development and its Impact on Politics The economic boom of the 19th century also played a pivotal role in the rise of Filipino nationalism. The flourishing economy allowed the middle and upper- 6

class Filipinos to benefit from it, but the hacienderos and friar-owned haciendas primarily benefited from the country's main exports of agricultural resources like rice, sugar, and abaca. This agrarian revolution would eventually weaken the Spaniards' grip on Philippine politics. However, economic development had a direct impact on political developments. The modernized Filipinos perceived the Spaniards as the cause of the country's prosperity, and the Spanish government's abuse of power became increasingly evident. The dispute between Spain's Liberals and Conservatives made it challenging to enforce policies for overseas colonies, resulting in misappropriation of the country's funds, lack of funding for basic necessities such as schools and public infrastructure, and abuse of power by the Guardia Civil. The taxes charged to the Filipinos were never used for the betterment of the country. These issues would eventually motivate Filipinos to fight against Spanish rule and strive for independence. The Renaissance and Galleon Trade Influence towards Filipino Nationalism Apart from the key factors mentioned, the Renaissance and Galleon Trade also played a significant role in shaping Philippine nationalism. The Renaissance influenced the Filipinos' intellectual and cultural development, inspiring them to look beyond their own borders and to seek out new ideas and perspectives. The Galleon Trade, on the other hand, introduced the Filipinos to the wider world and exposed them to new cultures, products, and ideas. The Galleon Trade also brought about a shift in power, as the Spaniards began to see the Philippines as a strategic location for trade and commerce. This led to an increase in Spanish presence in the Philippines, which fueled the flames of nationalism even further. 7

aspanish irony written by Knyll Adelayne Ramas GomBurZa is an abbreviation of the The Spanish Reconquista was a military surnames of three Filipino Catholic campaign in which Christian kingdoms priests, namely Mariano Gomez, Jose aimed to reclaim the land of what is Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora. They were now known as Spain from Islamic executed at Bagumbayan on February 28, forces. For a nation whose history 1872, on charges of subversion and being involves “being oppressed” and involved with the 1872 Cavite mutiny. “reclaiming their land”, it sure is a great They died at the age of 85, 30, and 35, irony that at their peak, they possessed respectively. 35 colonies. In these colonies, rampant abuse, oppression, and exploitation Filipino nationalism, like many Asian were experienced by the native people. nationalisms, is defensive and anti- Of all of Spain’s colonies, one sticks out colonialism by nature. It is the antithesis like a sore thumb, the Philippines. Being of western nationalism/colonialism. This their only colony in Asia, it served them was said to be birthed due to the a great purpose for obtaining rare Gomburza execution: the killings of three products and raw materials from the priests who were part of the country and its surrounding neighbors, secularization movement. It was at this which were very valuable and profitable point that people all over the islands of when it was sold back in Spain. During the Philippines realized that they had a the 333-year period of colonization, the commonality of suffering and they shared native Filipinos and insulares, Spaniards the common experience of being who were born and lived their entire oppressed by Spaniards. This helped lives in the Philippines, and mestizos create the idea of national identity in a grew tired of the constant maltreatment country that had a diverse range of they faced from the peninsulares and a ethnicities, languages, and cultures. feeling of nationalism were brewing Other factors that led to growing ideas of within all of them. nationalism were the opening of Manila to international trade and the opening of the Suez Canal. Both these events helped accelerate the movement of liberal and nationalistic ideas from Europe to the Philippines and made Filipinos aware that many nations around the world have fought against their oppressors, and won, 8

now living freely and without oppression. advancements, people in other countries Filipinos could also much more easily were experiencing that they were robbed of travel to Europe to study there, and are due to colonization. They advocated for able to spread the same liberal ideas to reforms that would resolve all the issues their countrymen back home. At the peak faced in mainland Philippines. They were of the revolution, Filipinos wanted to be adamant about reforms as they generally freed from Spanish rule entirely, but this believed the source of evil was the friars. wasn’t always the case. Two groups, the As most of the peninsulares and the Ilustrados, and the Katipunan, had the government body remained only in same final goal: the welfare of the Intramuros, the people who would enforce Filipino people. They both contributed laws and policies, and would interact with greatly to the birth and strengthening of Filipinos were friars and Ilustrados ideas of national identity and believed that the expulsion of friars and nationalism in the Philippines. However, other reforms in the government would be the methods they used to achieve this sufficient. They were not entertaining the and their general principles differ and, at idea of full independence from Spain. times, have clashed with each other. Ilustrados were a group of people consisting of enlightened and educated native Filipinos, Insulares, and Chinese Mestizos who were forced to immigrate abroad and received higher education in a different country. Their collective goal was to produce publications through essays, novels, and newspapers to expose the crimes committed by Spaniards on Philippine soil and inform mainland Filipinos what life of freedom was like and other liberal ideas circulating in Europe at the time. Through their publications, they were able to expose to Filipinos the luxuries, such as the freedom in expressing opinions and technological and economic 9

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THE AWAKENING OF A NATION ANDRES BONIFACIO AND THE PHILIPPINE REVOLUTION written by Gill Whenzel Quijano It was the late 1800s, and the Philippines was still under the brutal rule of the Spanish colonizers. The people had long been oppressed and exploited by the foreign government, with many Filipinos living in poverty and struggling to survive under the harsh and unjust policies of the colonial regime. But amidst the suffering and despair, there was a growing sense of discontent and resistance. Filipinos from all walks of life were beginning to question the legitimacy of Spanish rule and were searching for a way to assert their own identity and dignity. Andres Bonifacio was one of these people. Born in 1863 in Tondo, Manila, he was the son of a government employee and a housewife. From a young age, Bonifacio witnessed the injustices and inequalities of Spanish rule and became increasingly determined to fight for the rights and freedom of his fellow Filipinos. In 1892, Bonifacio joined the Liga Filipina, a civic organization founded by Jose Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines. The Liga was dedicated to promoting reform and peaceful resistance against Spanish rule, and it quickly gained widespread support among Filipinos throughout the islands. But the Spanish authorities soon became aware of the Liga's activities and shut it down, leading to the arrest and exile of many of its members, including Rizal. This setback only strengthened Bonifacio's resolve, however, and he began to organize a new movement that would take a more radical approach to achieving independence. 11

In July 1892, Bonifacio founded the The struggle was long and difficult, and Katipunan, a secret society dedicated many lives were lost on both sides. But to overthrowing Spanish rule and the Filipinos fought bravely, and they establishing a free and independent eventually prevailed over the Spanish Philippine republic. The Katipunan colonizers. On June 12, 1898, the quickly gained popularity among Philippine Republic was proclaimed, and Filipinos throughout the country, and the country's long journey toward its membership grew rapidly. independence had begun. But the Spanish authorities were not But the Spanish authorities soon willing to tolerate such a challenge to became aware of the Liga's activities and their authority, and they launched a shut it down, leading to the arrest and massive crackdown on the Katipunan. exile of many of its members, including Many members were arrested and Rizal. This setback only strengthened executed, and the movement was Bonifacio's resolve, however, and he driven underground. began to organize a new movement that would take a more radical approach to But Bonifacio remained undeterred. In achieving independence. 1896, he delivered a famous speech that would become known as \"Ang Andres Bonifacio's call for the Pagkagising ng Diwang Makabansa,\" awakening of the nationalist spirit or \"The Awakening of the Nationalist inspired a movement that would shape Spirit.\" In the speech, Bonifacio called the course of Philippine history. His for a revolution against the Spanish vision of a free and independent colonizers and proclaimed the need Philippines, built on the principles of for Filipinos to unite in a common justice and equality, continues to inspire struggle for freedom and Filipinos to this day. independence. Bonifacio's legacy is a testament to the The speech electrified the crowd, and power of hope and determination in the soon word spread throughout the face of oppression and injustice. His islands of Bonifacio's call to arms. unwavering commitment to the cause of People from all walks of life began to freedom and independence serves as a join the ranks of the Katipunan, and reminder that the struggle for justice the Philippine Revolution was born. and equality is a never-ending one, but it is one that is worth fighting for. 12

NTStharetuiogngalCeliosnmtinuifnogr written by Miguel James Martinez Today, we are tolerant of the In an essay written by Dr. Jose Rizal exploitation of our people and our published in La Solaridad in the 19th natural resources, the same way we century, he highlighted the were once tolerant of the abuse and consequences of a lack of nationalism. injustice of the Spaniards. Only this He mentioned how without it, the time, it's being done through our people of a nation become lenient. They economy and our politics, instead of become soft and tolerative of any through violence and power. Instead of wrongdoings made towards them. being under the colonial rule of the Furthermore, he states that nationalism Spaniards, our economy and national is a key component in building towards identity is held hostage by numerous a better nation. It jumpstarts it, and other nations. We are still under the without it, people lose the reason to do control of other nations except this time anything that is for the betterment of it is under the veil known as their nation. He mentions these because Neocolonialism. We are tolerant of they are things that Rizal noticed in his these in many ways. In the way we deal Philippines centuries ago. He fears the with other nations, our relations and direction that his nation is headed. our trades with them. Down to our Filipinos used to think as individuals attitude when it comes to local and instead of being part of a whole. They foreign goods and services. The colonial act in their own self-interests with no minded-ness of it all, how we prefer regard for the entire nation. They let the foreign things over having pride in our Spaniards have their way with them for own, because in many ways, as centuries without standing up for individuals, we benefit from them. themselves and making any actions Which brings me to my next point. toward liberating themselves. There are very few people doing Today, despite making many advances anything towards working against in politics, economics, technology, and neocolonialism because it is so much even (kind-of) claiming our easier and beneficial to only be thinking independence, things today may not be of yourself, the same way the Filipinos so different from Rizal’s time during Rizal’s time didn’t consider nationalism-wise. themselves as members of a nation or as a whole. They didn’t make any strides We have not attained nationalism towards freeing their entire nation from today, the same way Filipinos lacked it colonial rule because they either had no during the time of Rizal. Let me explain. 13

hoice, or because they would be put into Today, we are able to be all of the things trouble as deep as the others who dared that Rizal describes in that article he oppose the colonizers. Today, we choose wrote centuries ago, just in a different to prefer foreign goods and services, way. We condone actions that are taking money out of our economy and harmful towards our nation in one way putting it into the pockets of our or another. We lack the push to do neocolonizers. I find it hard to blame things that are beneficial for our nation, them. There’s a reason why they’re and; we, as Filipino people, are still preferred. They’re able to surpass local divided. It is evident that we have a long goods and services in quality while way to go from developing a proper keeping cost to a minimum, but I hope sense of nationalism. There may not be we don’t forget that locally produced a lot of things we can do right now to ones are nothing to scoff at either. It change that in a big way, but until then, doesn’t stop at goods and services, there are small steps we can take that though. A lot of Filipinos who grew up help foster this sense of nationalism, in the Philippines and were able to make and it starts with ourselves. Maybe look something of themselves, like to take into supporting that Filipino family- everything they’ve learned and work for owned business near you. Or consider another country in a phenomenon putting that local brand item into your called “brain drain”. Again, it’s difficult cart over a foreign one. As small as to blame and call people out for this these steps may be, they are essential if because of just how beneficial it is for we want to work towards building a the person involved. With just a bit of better nation. A nation with a bustling distance between them and their economy, a nation with true families, they are able to provide for independence, a nation where its people them. Give them a better life. Rizal are one and united, and a nation we can himself participated in this when he be proud of. went to Europe to pursue greater learnings. But let us not forget that 14 these all come with a cost. An opportunity cost, to be exact. Instead of your skills and knowledge being used in the betterment of our nation economically or otherwise, it gets taken advantage of by another nation.

TO YOU, 124 YEARS FROM NOW: EMOTIONS OF THE PAST, HOPE OF THE FUTURE written by Shaun Josh Sajiin Although Andres Bonifacio’s literary pieces are centuries old at this point, it is nonetheless a timeless and universal example of how literary pieces allow for the propagation and preservation of ideas and concepts that generations of today can apply to their everyday lives. Based on the sentiments and thoughts of Andres Bonifacio as highlighted in his poem, we contemporary Filipinos may be able to live nationalistic lives by giving priority to the nation and keeping it at the back of our minds at all times. All our actions, words, thoughts and sentiments, must be for the betterment of the state and love for the nation. Bonifacio, calls us to action every single day, to be nationalists not only in words but especially in action. There are many ways we can express our nationalism in the current day. For one, we can orient many of our actions to the nation. Such as our job options, although unfavorable for the most part, instead of going overseas for work, we may instead choose to make the most of what is offered here and utilize our skills for the improvement of the nation with respect to our line of work. Other simple tasks such as the cleaning of our environment, segregation of trash, and respect of our fellow man by following rules and laws, and paying taxes. Essentially, just by being a law abiding citizen, we are already exerting effort to be a nationalist. The primary aspect of Filipino nationalism that can be taken from the poem is that Filipino Nationalism and nationalism in general is both a feeling and a movement/action. It is both physical and ephemeral in the sense that Filipino nationalism stems from an innate love of the country, its people, culture and heritage. It gives us pride and allows us to perform actions we never thought possible. At the same time it is a movement in a sense that in order to accomplish true freedom, one must take the necessary action to achieve it. In the age of globalization with respect to the work of Bonifacio, one can express their own nationalism by motivating Filipinos, especially those abroad to never forget their roots and where they came from. To always exemplify the Filipino nationalist and to devote their work to the betterment of the Filipino nation-state. Jose Palma’s poem which became the basis of the national anthem, one of our official national symbols and a testament to the national identity of the Filipino is without a doubt one of the most important examples of nationalistic literary pieces. Based on the poem itself, one can exemplify being a nationalist by both appreciating the nation, its beauty, and the symbols of our nation. And finally by placing our lives on the line for the country and come to its defense when under duress. 15

With respect to the contents of the poem, one can express their nationalism by properly singing the national anthem, by standing at attention whenever it is played regardless of time or place. One can also express our nationalism by keeping our environment clean and beautiful much like how Jose Palma sees the Philippines in the poem. On the other hand, when looking into the literary work of Palma, the primary aspect of Filipino nationalism is its visceral aspect. Symbolisms and images that invoke a lasting impression upon its people due to the sheer serenity and breathtaking beauty of our nation. Not only that but also the call to arms that the nation expresses. In the age of globalization with respect to the work of Palma, one can express their own nationalism by defending our forestry and nature against those who would see it destroyed for personal gain. This is especially true when it comes to foreign companies which wish to extract our natural resources for their own benefit and not for the benefit of the Filipino nation. Indeed both pieces by Bonifacio and Palma highlight what it means to be a true Filipino nationalist. One must not only have the sense of a nationalist through their thoughts and words, they must also reinforce their conviction and beliefs with action. Action that is beneficial not only to the state but also to your fellow countrymen. Nationalism is predicated upon selfless sacrifice and unyielding love for the motherland and its inhabitants. One does not need to go to battle and die for the country, one can exemplify a true Filipino nationalist in one’s own simple way such as by caring for the environment, being active in public discourse that concerns the nation as a whole and engaging with one’s community. That is the only way we can make our mark on history and keep the memories and flame of the revolution alive. From the two, we can develop an image of Filipino nationalism which is both a feeling and an action. A feeling because it allows us to feel a special way about our country, and an action since it motivates us to do right by our country and its people. In summary, it is important to realize that despite being decades old, both literary works can still be applied in the present day such as motivating current Filipinos to be nationalistic themselves and by defending aspects of the motherland such as our natural resources and beauty. 16

June 19, 1861 with the stolen grain harvested from the womb of the motherland meant to be fed The First Cries of Revolution to her children. To enrich themselves with the resources and treasures God has written by Shaun Josh Sajiin bestowed to the children of the nation. To indulge themselves in the service and An Idealistic Fantasy labor of our fellow man which should be used to grow our lands. For the longest Freedom. One of the many God given time, since the Europeans came to rights humans are intrinsically gifted. Philippine shores, the Filipino nation Freedom to life, to love, and to live. To has been broken, beaten, and enslaved. hold power and authority over oneself and For 333 years, the Filipino people have to steer one’s life to his/her destiny endured hardship and tribulation unlike without the fear of losing this unalienable at any other point in our history. And rights of life, liberty, and the pursuit of now, after almost 3 centuries of happiness or the fear of relinquishing servitude, 3 centuries of abuse, and 3 authority to any figure or force regardless centuries of subjugation, the day of of proximity or purpose. Freedom, for all reckoning, June 19, 1861, has arrived. intents and purposes, serves the The arrival of a hero that would inspire a individual, and is proven time and time nation to finally break the chains of again to be an essential component of the bondage and establish our place in the human character and experience, and sun. allows us and others from seeing the true beauty of life. Indeed, nothing can be more beautiful than seeing and experiencing one of the most profound feelings a human can achieve: the feeling of being free. Sadly, this overly idealistic scenario only exists in fiction. Reality is far far far harsher. A Pragmatic Reality Herald of the Revolution For much of the modern history of the Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Philippine Islands, the motherland and its Calamba, Laguna, Philippines, to children have been subjugated, abused, Francisco Rizal Mercado and Teodora and exploited by foreign powers. The Alonso Realonda. He was the seventh of nation has been stripped, raped, and eleven children in a prosperous family ravaged by those who wish nothing more that rented and managed land from than to expand their own interests and Dominican Friars. Due to this, Rizal’s agendas. To build their castles, kingdoms, family is extremely well and empires only to become symbols of their decadence and misplaced pride. To feed their families 17

connected with the Spanish Elite and from his female siblings, Rizal learned to many priests both Spanish and Filipino be an esteemed gentleman and to respect especially those in Calamba, Laguna know the opposite sex something that would his family very well and are frequently ultimately influence his relationship with acquainted with them. Rizal's parents his courted sweethearts. instilled in him the values of education, respect, and freedom from a young age. Education Unfit for a Future Hero He grew up in a loving and nurturing environment, surrounded by the lush In 1870, at the age of nine, Rizal's family landscapes of his hometown, which would sent him to receive formal education in later influence his love for nature and the Binan, Laguna, where he enrolled in a beauty of his country. Rizal's early school run by Justiniano Aquino Cruz, a childhood was marked by the influence of strict and devout Catholic teacher. This his mother, who taught him to read and marked the beginning of Rizal's formal write at an early age. Rizal showed education, which would become a crucial exceptional intellect and talent, and his aspect of his journey towards freedom. parents recognized his abilities and Teaching was very rigid and strict unlike provided him with a good education. He the education received from his mother learned Spanish, Latin, and English from and home tutors. Rizal would frequently be private tutors, and he also learned given corporal punishment by the maestro Tagalog, the native language of the for mistakes even if he is the smartest in Philippines. Aside from this, he also the class. Rizal also experienced ridicule picked up many values from his parents, and bullying from his classmates siblings, and even his ancestors. From his particularly due to his disposition as well Malay, Chinese and Spanish Ancestors, as due to jealousy of his superior academic Rizal learned to love freedom and have a performance. The young Rizal would natural desire to travel and explore the frequently get into fights which not only world and develop his sense of courage. shows his bravery in the face of adversity To be serious, frugal, develop a sense of but also his respect for himself to not be perseverance and love and care for others, trampled upon by others. Despite the especially Children and learn the basics of hardships he faced during his time in his social delicadeza and to not be aggrieved Binan school such as bullying from his in the face of insults or slander. From his peers and frequent punishment from his Father and Mother, Rizal learned to be teachers due to his roguishness, Rizal studious and hardworking in his line of continued to excel in his studies and work, respect for one-self, and freedom of showed a keen interest in various subjects thought and to think for oneself and such as history, geography, and literature. learned to take care of himself and give priority to himself as well as his love for 18 the arts. From his brother Paciano, Jose Alberto, Manuel, and Gregorio, Rizal learned values such as loving freedom and justice, loving theater and the arts, knowing the importance of having a strong body, and to love reading. Lastly,

He was known for his intelligence and and reforms, which he believed were academic prowess, and he was regarded as crucial for the progress and liberation of one of the top students in his class. the Filipino people. To add insult to injury, However, even if he does excel in class, his mother was also being charged on false Rizal did not particularly enjoy his time in allegations and was eventually arrested, Binan. His sentiments towards his negative forced to walk from Calamba to Sta. Cruz experiences in Binan were evident in his and be held in captivity for two and a half works particularly in Noli. years. Being a loving and caring son, this event also further fueled the The first Awakening to Injustice disillusionment of Rizal towards the Spanish Government and their corrupt In 1872, Rizal's life took a tragic turn when ways. three Filipino priests, known as the Gomburza, were executed by the Spanish Birth of the Resistance authorities for their alleged involvement in a rebellion known as the Cavite Mutiny. further fueled the disillusionment of Rizal During this time, the priesthood was the towards the Rizal's schooling in Binan was highest and safest occupation a Filipino a crucial period in his life, as it laid the can have. As this exempts him from taxes, foundation for his later accomplishments gives him authority over a specific area, and contributions to the Philippine and relatively protects him from abuses independence movement and served as an done on ordinary Filipinos such as forced preliminary awakening call to the realities labor or Polo Y Servicio. Furthermore, his and societal injustices faced by Filipinos. It brother Paciano has a particularly close was an essential stepping stone in his relationship with Father Burgos, hearing journey and his time in Binan began to his brother rant and anguish over the awaken the young rizal of the true realities death of a friend particularly shook the the Filipino people face. He honed his young boy. This event deeply affected intellect, developed his nationalist Rizal and further strengthened his resolve sentiments, and learned to navigate the to fight for the freedom and rights of his challenges and discrimination he faced as countrymen. The execution of the a Filipino student. Rizal's experiences in Gomburza proved to Rizal that no matter Binan instilled in him the values of how high your status is, no matter your freedom, justice, and nationalism, which service to the Spanish crown, and no would become the guiding principles of his matter how wealthy you are, as long as you life's work. Government and their corrupt are Filipino, your life means very little to ways. the colonizers. He vowed to dedicate his life to the pursuit of education, enlightenment, 19

The Ateneo de Municipal de Manila A TRUE SPANISH Rizal enjoyed his stay studying and JOSE RIZAL developing his skills at the Ateneo de Municipal de Manila from 1872 to 1877. RIZAL AS A STUDENT OF ATENEO MUNICIPAL There, he never experienced discrimination. All students were treated written by Angelo Christian Balagtas equally, regardless of their race and lineage. However, this was a stark To Rizal, education without religion is contrast to what other areas of the like a vulnerable ship caught in a storm. Philippines experienced at the time. Without the moral compass provided by religion, education is meaningless. Academic Achievements Hispanicization During his stay, Rizal was at the top of his class. He developed his excellence in Due to the curriculum and positive the Spanish language, sciences, and the experience at the Ateneo de Municipal, arts. In addition, he enjoyed participating this was the period when one could say in co-curricular activities and Rizal idolized Spanish culture, tradition, competitions, where he shared his talents and identity. So much so that he wanted and work. to be part of this great civilization. To Rizal, this was the standard that the Education Philippines should aspire to be. In his quest, he proved that Filipinos such as Rizal already understood the significance him deserve to be assimilated into a of education not just for oneself but for Spanish province through his works and society and the nation as a whole at a academic achievements. young age. He expresses this in one of his works, “Education Gives Luster to the Idealism or Childish Ignorance? Motherland,” by depicting education as the key factor for a country to achieve Rizal’s experience at Ateneo de endless glory. Thanks to education, life is Municipal gives us a glimpse into Rizal’s given meaning because education gives idealistic convictions of being under birth to the arts and science. Spanish rule. However, one may say his dreams of the nation being assimilated Man of Faith into the Spaniards are rooted in ignorance of the current situations at Given the curriculum taught and the the time. His ideals for Hispanicization, environment in Ateneo, Rizal at this age however, were quickly crushed by the displayed strong faith in the Catholic harsh reality once he viewed Spain in a religion and believed in its importance to different light as he stepped foot outside having a well-rounded life. During this the utopian-esque school of Ateneo. time, most of Rizal’s work was religious like “To the Child Jesus” and “To the Virgin Mary.” He also emphasized the importance of incorporating religion into education through one of his works entitled “The Intimate Alliance Between Religion and Good Education.” 20

\"You will in the 19th century during the Age of never be one Enlightenment in Europe which forced of us.\" monarchies all over the world to improve and enrich the lives of their Jose Rizal’s identity as a Filipino subjects. Many Filipinos started to in a colonized Philippines experience luxuries they were not able to before, one of them was having access written by Knyll Adelayne Ramas to higher education. The University of Santo Tomas first accepted Filipino “You will never be one of us.” students in 1863. This was one of many settings where Filipinos and Spaniards These are words all too familiar to any first constantly interacted with each Filipino living in the Philippines during other, and unfortunately, the harsh the Spanish colonization. Under 333 treatment only continued. years of Spanish rule, many were born into a world where Spaniards ruled and Jose Rizal had many positive that was the norm. Many Filipinos faced experiences while studying high school harsh treatment and abuse at the hands in Ateneo de Municipal. He had a great of Spaniards, mainly friars, and many appreciation for education and excelled were subjected to forced labor which under the teachings of his Jesuit friars included jobs such as cutting down tall who were his teachers. It was here where trees or building churches with huge he believed that if Filipinos could blocks of stone, which proved to be fatal. display their ingenuity and excellence to Due to this, many Filipinos yearned to Spaniards, they could be seen as equals be treated equally, to be treated with and be treated as such. He was an thes ame level of respect as they would assimilationist and wanted the any Spaniard. Filipinos yearned for Hispanization of Filipinos. However, his Hispanization. Changes started to occur views would change as soon as he stepped foot on the UST campus in Intramuros. Discrimination by friars UST was owned and run by Dominican friars. Here, Rizal personally witnessed and experienced the huge disparity between his Filipino peers and Spaniard peers. He saw how the teachers would racially discriminate against Filipino students. He also believed that Filipinos and Spaniards were not graded equally, and Spaniards were given higher grades compared to Filipinos and this injustice angered Rizal greatly. It was a stark contrast to the treatment he received when he studied in Ateneo. He was dissatisfied with the poor quality of education given by the friars due to their extreme prejudice. This started and grew Rizal’s resentment towards friars and his belief that they were the source of evil in the Philippines. Rizal expressed his feelings and thoughts through literary works and was an avid writer. However, he was unable to express his hatred towards Dominican friars as he was greatly urged by his brother, Paciano, not in a letter addressed to Rizal during this time. The reason was that the land his family’s home and farm was situated upon was owned by Dominican friars and thus his family, the Mercado family, owed them gratitude. Rizal respected his family’s wishes and wrote 21 nothing about the Dominican friars during this period.

Discrimination by Spaniard peers He realized that the disparity between Filipinos and Spaniards would never change Naturally, his Spaniard peers were not very and instead of yearning to be assimilated and welcoming of Filipino presence in institutions Hispanized, he believed that the Philippines previously only attended by their kind. was a nation in and of itself. He accepted that Endless bullying and fights occurred on the they were different from the Spaniards. He UST campus between Spaniards and Filipinos now believed that the Philippines was a and without a doubt, the friars or the staff nation inside of a bigger nation, Spain. Spain who would break up the fights would side with was the “Patria madre” (motherland) and the their kind, the Spaniards. Here it was Philippines were the “Patria chica”. While he reinforced in Rizal’s mind how Spaniards truly believed that Filipinos were different from did not see Filipinos as even close to their Spaniards and they were a separate nation, he equals and could barely treat them with still believed that one could be loyal to both decency. their local province, city, or town and loyal to mother Spain. Unable to win scholastic awards Upon the creation of his nationalist spirit, Rizal did not want the Philippines to be As previously mentioned, Rizal was completely independent of Spain as he had determined to enter and win various gathered that friars were the root of all evil in competitions to prove to Spaniards that the Philippines. He still believed that the Filipinos were full of excellent minds and were government was good and decent, and the worthy of being treated as their equals. In his solution to the problems faced by Filipinos first competition, Rizal won first place in a was the expulsion of friars. It was during his poetry competition. The rest of the winners time in UST that Rizal’s resentment of friars had been Spaniards and received loud and solidified as he first-hand experienced echoing cheers from the crowd when they extreme maltreatment and discrimination received their awards on stage. However, from them, which he could not even publicly when his name was called, and he walked up express for his family’s sake. He believed as the stage to receive his award, the spectators long as friars were removed, Filipinos would and judges realized an “Indio” had won first no longer face inequality and oppression. place and the room fell silent. From this point forward, Rizal was unable to win first place or “You will never be one of us.” at all in competitions as the judges knew he was a Filipino and refused to give him the They were indeed right. They will never be award, regardless of the quality and brilliance one of them. They no longer wish to be one of of his poems. them. They are Filipinos and they are our own nation. Experience with the civil guard 22 There was an instance where Rizal was attacked by a civil guard for not showing respect to him. While not extremely significant, it was an event that reinforced in Rizal’s mind the belief that grew and solidified during his studies at UST. A nation within a nation As a product of his experiences in UST, two ideas formed in Rizal’s mind: Patria Madre and Patria Chia and Nationalism. It was at this period that he started referring to natives as “Filipinos”, a term previously only used for insulares, Spaniards born and raised in the Philippines.

Ang Repormistang Rizal Noli Me Tangere As a Window Into the Beliefs of Rizal written by Miguel James Martinez Rizal returned to the Philippines for the first time ever since he left to pursue greater studies after his novel Noli Me Tangere was first published. Many of the beliefs of Rizal are evident through the contents of his novel. In this article, we will take a look into the different characters, themes, and events in the novel that give us an idea as to what Rizal believed the Philippines needed during this time. In a letter he wrote to Blumentritt, he stated \"All that we ask is greater attention, better education, better government, one or two representatives, and greater security for persons and our properties.\" He believed that the Philippines shouldnt long for separation from Spain, but instead should become a province under it. In that way, Filipinos will gain Spanish citizenship and be given equal rights, opportunities, and freedoms. This belief of Rizal is most evident through the main characters in his novel. Chrisostomo Ibarra and Elias Elias, on the other hand, is a character in the novel who likes to take matters into his own Ibarra and Elias are two of the main characters hands. At multiple points in the story, he is in the novel who represent two different sides seen addressing his problems directly and of Rizal. One side believes in reform, and the getting his own hands dirty. Elias represents other believes that immediate action needs to the side of Rizal that believes in revolution. be taken. In the novel, Chrisostomo Ibarra is represented as someone who is well-educated Chrisostomo Ibarra is the main character in and well-presented. Ibarra was motivated to the novel. It is him who the events that unfold establish schools for the younger generation. in the story center around, while Elias is only With the hopes that Filipinos become a side character. Furthermore, Elias dies in the educated and one day be smart enough to novel, while Ibarra lives on. This suggests that reason with Spain and convince them to Rizal was still largely for assimilation, for assimilate into each other, similar to Rizal’s reform. But the existence of Elias as a own beliefs. Ibarra represents the side of Rizal character in the novel suggests that Rizal was that believes in reform, the side of Rizal that open to the idea of a revolution. believes that the Spaniards can be reasoned with and convinced to treat Filipinos fairly 23 and as equals.

Pacing Generals and Friars It was established that Rizal was all for reform Rizal was yet to believe in the need for a through the characters in his novel. But revolution during this time because another way that this is evident in the novel is throughout his entire life, from his childhood in its pacing. In Noli me Tangere, the events to his studies in UST, he believed that in the in the novel are slow to unfold. The novel has root of everything wrong with Philippines’, many chapters in which there is little to were the friars. This can be seen in the novel nothing new that occurs. A stark contrast to in the way that the Generals, specifically how, in El Filibusterismo, new events and Lieutenant Guevarra, are well-presented and revelations are happening left and right. Noli well-mannered. While the Friars are all Me Tangere was written this way because terrible people. The difference of how they are Rizal believes that reform is something that presented in the novel represents Rizal’s takes time, while revolution is something that belief that the ugliness of the friars were needs to be done swiftly. something that the Spanish government could do something about. That there was hope for the Spanish government and that they were right and just as they should be. This belief of Rizal would soon go through a dramatic change due to an event regarding his family in his hometown. A change that becomes evident in his next novel: El Filibusterismo. Unable to win scholastic awards 24

JOSE RIZAL'S JOURNEY TOWARDS PHILIPPINE written by Gill Whenzel Quijano INDEPENDENCE Rizal traveled to various countries, including Rizal's next destination was Europe, where he Japan, the United States, and the United spent the next two years studying and Kingdom, to gather knowledge and experience conducting research. He lived in London for a that would help him in his quest for Philippine time, where he worked on his novels, Noli Me independence. Tangere and El Filibusterismo. He also made important connections with British politicians Rizal's journey began in 1888, when he left the and intellectuals who supported the Philippines for Japan. He was initially Philippine nationalist cause. Rizal then interested in studying the Japanese language traveled to other European countries, and culture, but he soon became fascinated including Germany, France, and Italy, where with their advanced technology and he continued his research and gathered progressive government. Rizal also made support for the Philippine independence friends with Japanese scholars and movement. intellectuals who shared his vision of national liberation. He spent several months in Japan, learning and writing about its culture, history, and political system. In 1889, Rizal left Japan and traveled to the Throughout his travels, Rizal remained United States, where he spent several months committed to his goal of achieving Philippine in San Francisco, California. He then traveled independence. He used his writings and to New York, where he was introduced to the speeches to advocate for the rights of Filipinos city's intellectual and artistic circles. While in and to challenge the injustices of Spanish the US, Rizal wrote articles and essays for colonial rule. He also worked to build alliances various newspapers and magazines, including with other nationalist leaders and movements, the La Solidaridad, which advocated for both in the Philippines and abroad. Philippine independence from Spanish colonial rule. He also worked as a Despite the challenges and dangers he faced, correspondent for the Hong Kong-based Rizal's travels were crucial in shaping his newspaper, La Publicidad, reporting on the political beliefs and his vision for Philippine events and issues affecting the Philippines. independence. He returned to the Philippines in 1892, where he continued his advocacy work and helped to organize the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. 25

Ang Nasyonalistang Rizal Jose Rizal came back to the Philippines for Rizal's philosophy was rooted in the belief the second time in 1892, with the intention of that moral and internal change must come establishing revolutionary efforts against the before political or military changes. He also oppressive Spanish government. His believed that reason should prevail over experiences and encounters during his emotion at all times. He viewed a true previous stay in the Philippines, particularly nationalist as someone who was willing to the Calamba Incident, had a significant give up personal conveniences and privileges influence on his beliefs, philosophy, and for the country's sake, even if it meant values. sacrificing their life. Rizal's belief in the importance of revolution In the end, Rizal's second return to the over reform was solidified by the letters he Philippines was a demonstration of his received from Antonio Luna and Guerrero, courage and commitment to the revolution. who helped him realize the futility of his As he wrote, \"Itinataas ang katwiran at dangal reformist efforts. He understood that Spain ng tao, minamahal kung ano ang would never accept the demands of Rizal and makatarungan, mabuti, dakila, kahit mamatay his company and that revolutionary efforts alang-alang dito\" - the dignity and reason of were necessary to bring about real change. man are elevated by loving what is just, good, and noble, even if it means dying for it. Rizal knew that starting a revolution was not a task that could be taken lightly. It required extensive preparation, which he focused on by establishing La Liga Filipina, a civic organization aimed at uniting Filipinos from different classes and backgrounds. During this time, Rizal also had to deal with several turning points and internal problems. The Calamba Incident, where his family was unfairly persecuted, was one such event that prompted him to take action. Pronouncements made by the Spanish authorities, combined with the failure of the North Borneo Project, further pushed Rizal towards the idea of revolution. Rizal's time in Dapitan further fueled his philosophy of self-sufficiency and a free Philippines. He simulated the goal of a self- sufficient community by teaching his students various skills and trades. He also went to Cuba as a volunteer doctor, demonstrating his willingness to put his beliefs into practice. 26

The Martyr and Nationalist Who Inspired the Revolution of 1896 written by Shawn Karlsten A. Narvaja Rizal’s Influence: The Katipunan Rizal’s Rejection: Rizal's two most significant works, Noli Me Despite his influence on the Philippine Tangere and El Filibusterismo, were a source Revolution, Rizal declined and condemned the of inspiration for the Katipunan to seek 1896 Revolution, which aimed to achieve revolution. One of the most significant Philippine independence through armed influences of Rizal on the Philippine struggle. Andres Bonifacio’s offer through Dr. Revolution was through the Katipunan. The Pio Valenzuela in Dapitan to join and lead the leaders and members of the Katipunan found 1896 was rejected by Rizal. Two pieces of inspiration in Rizal's works, which influenced advice given to Dr. Valenzuela if the start of their beliefs and actions. Rizal was idolized by the revolution cannot be stopped: seek the the Katipunan and Bonifacio, who recognized support of the wealthy; and enlist Antonio as him as the leader of the common Katipuneros the leader of the military forces. Rizal did not since they did not know the true leaders join the Revolution of 1896 because it did not because they wore hoods during meetings. As align with his idea and requirement for a high recognition by the Katipuneros, \"Rizal\" launching a revolution similar to Simoun's was designated as the password for the Revolution, which he failed to succeed in El members of the \"Bayani\" level. Furthermore, Filibusterismo. the Katipunan's attack strategy during the \"Battle of San Juan del Monte\" on August 30, 1896, was modeled after the attack of Simoun and his associates during the wedding of Paulita Gomez and Juanito Pelaez, which signaled the start of the revolution. However, the Katipunan failed to realize the underlying message and true form of revolution Rizal expressed in Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. 27

Despite this, Rizal's execution on December The tradition of celebrating Rizal Day dates 30, 1896 became the inspiration for the 1896 back to December 30, 1898, when President Revolution. His execution sparked outrage Emilio Aguinaldo declared it as a day of and intensified the Filipinos' desire for mourning for Rizal and other victims of independence, which led to the eventual Spanish colonialism. The day was marked by victory of the Philippine Revolution against the half-masting of the national flag and the the Spanish colonial government. Rizal's closure of all government offices as a symbol picture was displayed as proof of the of mourning. Katipuneros' reverence for him. In the following years, many towns and cities Rizal’s Love for the Philippines: in the Philippines held their own Ultimo Adios (My Last Farewell) commemorative events. One of the most significant was the inauguration of the Rizal Rizal showcased characteristics of a true Monument in Luneta Park, Manila, on Filipino nationalist that is willing to sacrifice December 30, 1913, which marked the 17th it all, including his life for the welfare of the anniversary of Rizal's death. The monument is nation. This was evident in Oone of Rizal's a symbol of Rizal's sacrifice for the country's most famous works is his poem, \"Ultimo independence and serves as a reminder of the Adios\" (My Last Farewell). He wrote this piece importance of the values he stood for. The in 1896, just before his execution on significance of Rizal Day was further December 30, 1896. The poem expresses emphasized with the passage of Philippine Rizal's love for his country, his sadness at Commission Act No. 345 on February 1, 1902, leaving it, and his hope that his death would which declared December 30 of every year as a inspire his fellow Filipinos to fight for their national holiday in honor of Rizal. The law freedom. The poem has been translated into also made it one of the country's ten official several languages, including Tagalog by holidays. Rizal's legacy and contributions to Andres Bonifacio and English by Encarnacion Philippine society were again highlighted with & Escare Abeto. It continues to be studied and the passage of Republic Act No. 1425, also recited in schools and universities in the known as the Rizal Law, on June 12, 1956. The Philippines. law requires all educational institutions in the Philippines to include Rizal's life, works, and Recognition and Awakening: Ang writings in their curricula, with the goal of Mga Martir instilling a sense of nationalism and patriotism among Filipino students. Another important literary work during the Philippine Revolution of 1896 is the poem, Today, Rizal Day continues to be a significant \"Ang Mga Martir\". The true author of the event in the Philippines, with various poem is unknown, but it was popular in the activities held to commemorate the national town of Guimba, Nueva Ecija. The poem hero. These include wreath-laying recognizes the death of GomBurza, three ceremonies, cultural performances, and Filipino priests who were executed in 1872, lectures on Rizal's life and legacy. The and Rizal. It also serves as an inspiration for celebration of Rizal Day reminds Filipinos of Filipinos, awakening their nationalist spirit the values and principles that Rizal stood for, and encouraging them to fight for their including love of country, education, and country's freedom. freedom. His contributions to Philippine society continue to inspire generations of To Honor: Rizal’s Legacy Filipinos, and his legacy serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who fought for Every 30th of December, Filipinos all over the the country's independence. world commemorate the death anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines' national hero