José Rizal:

Un Faro de la Inteligencia Filipina

By: Luis Andrei S. Pilarca

BET-WET IV
 TABLE OF CONTENTS

 Biography of Jose Rizal . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Reflection on Jose Rizal’s Novels . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Personal Reflection . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Creative Output . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Philippine Hero Today (Essay) . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Quizzes and Midterm Exam . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

 Written Works . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .

  Biography of Jose Rizal

Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda was born on June

19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna. He was a seventh child from the eleven
children of Teodora Alonso and Francisco Mercado. Rizal families from
both his paternal and maternal sides were well-known in Laguna and
enjoyed great wealth and education, which was quite advantageous at
the time. He considered his mother Teodora to be his first teacher. Many
would say he was a genius as he learned the alphabet and different
prayers at the age of three. Indeed, he was very intellectual. In years of
studying, he would always have an award. He was a polymath, excelled
in both science and arts. He painted, sketched, sculpted; a poet, essayist,
and novelist. He had expertise in architecture, sociology, anthropology,
ophthalmology, economics, etc. He was also a polyglot as he can speak
22 languages namely, Hebrew, Filipino, Ilokano, Bisayan, Subanon,
Chinese, Latin, Spanish, Greek, English, French, German, Arabic,
Malay, Sanskrit, Dutch, Japanese, Catalan, Italian, Portuguese, Swedish
and Russian. Jose Rizal is a true Filipino phenom. Rizal attended the
University of Santo Thomas and Ateneo de Manila University in the
Philippines. He traveled to Spain in 1882 to continue his medical
education. He made friends with other Filipino expats there, which
helped spark the propaganda movement. In 1892, he went back to the
Philippines. He had already published Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo at that point. The Spanish friars knew him previously.
Then he founded La Liga Filipina, a nonviolent group. Its goals were
reforms, education, and unity, as previously stated. However, the
alliance was unsuccessful since Rizal was sent to Dapitan after the first
meeting. He was going to go to Cuba in 1895 to start working as a
physician for Spain. But Andres Bonifacio's revolutionary organization
Katipunan's scheme was made public. Rizal faced accusations of
conspiracy, sedition, and insurrection. On December 30, 1896, he was
publicly killed by firing squad in Bagumbayan, Manila (now known as
Luneta). After his passing, he became even more deadly because he
served as the model for the revolt and the nationalism that led to the
Philippines' independence.

Rizal’s Struggles

Rizal’s early age. Rizal has faced many obstacles in his life. His fate had
already put him to the test since he was a young child. When he was nine
years old, he had to go to Biñan for school and stay with his aunt. He
had never been away from his family before, so this was quite difficult
for him. I can relate with this predicament because I also had to leave
my family and my hometown, Ilocos Sur, in order to pursue my studies
in Manila. It was not easy to adjust to the unfamiliar surroundings and
people. A rigorous tutor who Rizal described as "a tall, slender,
longnecked guy with a sharp nose and a body leaned slightly forward"
beat or whipped him. As a result of his experiences, Rizal came to the
opinion that receiving a good education was an investment in the future.
And he made numerous allusions to teachers and schools, declaring that
a school should be more like a "playground of the mind" than a "torture
chamber." Another difficulty he faced was when he was eleven years
old, Doña Teodora was imprisoned and punished on the basis of false
and flimsy charges. I cannot imagine how an 11-year-old Rizal must
have felt at that moment; you wouldn't want to see your mother in a bad
situation. I believe that this one episode alone deeply affected him and
helped to sow the roots of his hatred and contempt for the crooked
system and its power-hungry leaders. Although izal mentions the
execution of the three Filipino priests as evidence for his hatred of the
government, I am very persuaded that the young Rizal's mother's false
indictment left a larger and deeper impression that he retained as he
grew up. Rizal’s in his schooling. Rizal's small stature was another of his
early challenges. Because of his weak stamina and small stature, he was
very nearly denied admittance to one school. I believe that his physical
appearance and body fit also contributed to him being frequently bullied
by his classmates, constantly being made fun of, and receiving a slew of
unpleasant nicknames that he disliked. That kind of racism, in my
opinion, still exists I still see people being evaluated based on their
appearance, and the majority of young people attempt to dress like
adults in order to adhere to "society's standards." However, it should be
noted that he did not always find this annoying and gradually accepted
the reality that he was smaller than most. Rizal paid more attention to his
inner processes, which he could influence and change to his satisfaction.
He did himself a favor by not obsessing over his predisposition because
there wasn't much, he could do to change it. It is noteworthy since it
served as one of his driving forces to do well in school and forge his
perspective on education. Along with the presumptions that sending
Rizal to Europe would further his quest for academic improvement and
his mother's impassioned pleas to keep him at home, Rizal also had the
typical financial difficulties that bother today's students. He was a
student with an uncertain future and without a clear sense of his calling;
he was also separated from his family and from the friends he had made
at the start of his journey. He was driven by a strong desire to succeed,
not only for the benefit of his family but also for his country.
We can observe how Rizal used his personal struggles as a motivator for
societal change from Guerrero's perspective. Instead of giving in to
resentment or defeat, Rizal turned his annoyance into a determination to
deal with the underlying causes of societal problems. His difficulties
strengthened his resolve to combat oppression and pursue justice and
equality for his people. A tribute to Rizal's character is his capacity to
overcome his own struggles and use them as fuel for change. Guerrero's
presentation emphasizes how Rizal's difficulties not only impacted his
own course but also motivated others to overcome similar challenges.
For the Filipino people, Rizal became an example of optimism and
fortitude by overcoming his own challenges head-on, proving that
change is possible even in the face of seemingly impossible hurdles.
Rizal's transformative journey emphasizes both the power of personal
events to have a profound impact and the resilience needed to overcome
adversity. The story of Rizal's development from a young man who
suffered from social prejudice and was shunned into a revered national
hero who ardently fought for justice and equality is a powerful source of
inspiration for anyone facing similar difficulties. The story of Rizal
serves as a potent reminder that, despite insurmountable challenges,
people have the ability to overcome their circumstances and act as a
catalyst for positive social change.

Rizal’s Intellectual Development

The persecution and exploitation of his fellow Filipinos by the Spanish

government and the friars while he was growing up in Calamba strongly
affected him, which led to the planting of the seeds of empathy and
sparked the desire for societal change. Despite these obstacles, Rizal was
able to continue his schooling and grow intellectually. Moreover, I think
his intellectual growth was influenced by racial jealousy. Rizal was
molded by racial resentment to be a rival to white people. He desired to
be on par with them, if not above them, just like every other minority.
He was motivated to study more diligently and more effectively by his
displeasure with racism and injustice. He was enraged and resolved to
learn about the entire planet. As he crossed the world, it grew even
wider. His viewpoint and expertise were altered by the sensation of
unfamiliarity that came from seeing and experiencing something new.
The biography by Guerrero emphasizes Rizal's remarkable academic
talent and early quest for knowledge. He was a model student who
sought higher education both locally and abroad while immersing
himself in a variety of intellectual communities that broadened his
outlook. Guerrero highlights the fact that Rizal was exposed to the
works of European thinkers, where he came across liberal concepts and
ideologies that had a significant impact on his intellectual growth. He
then applied his expertise to discredit the dominant colonial narrative
and advance a vision of a free and independent Philippines. Rizal's early
life and intellectual growth were also impacted by his family
background and personal experiences in addition to having the
opportunity to pursue academics overseas. He hailed from a line of
reformers and intellectuals who opposed the colonial order. Rizal's
attitude and services to his country were significantly shaped by his
access to study abroad and his intellectually stimulating family
environment. I have observed that he makes it a point to research every
place he travels to, including its languages, cultures, and customs. His
intelligence is enhanced by this. Thus, I think that while there is no such
thing as a natural genius, there is something called intellectual self-
development. Rizal's in-depth understanding of history and philosophy
also gave him a critica lens through which he saw the injustices and
inequalities that were pervasive in colonial society. He understood that
awareness and education were effective forces for society change. Rizal
had a strong belief in the ability of knowledge to liberate his fellow
countrymen's minds and enable them to challenge the established order,
which would ultimately result in social transformation and national
independence. In Guerrero's representation, Rizal's dedication to
education as a tool for empowerment is highlighted. Rizal saw education
to be both an individual goal and a national effort to better the Filipino
people. He fought for the creation of educational institutions and
equitable access to education because he was confident that an informed
and educated populace would pave the way for growth and the
advancement of the country..
Rizal's writings, which deftly combine historical context, philosophical
insights, and social critiques to illuminate the hardships and ambitions of
the Filipino people, are evidence of his depth of intellect. Furthermore,
Rizal's intellectual endeavors went beyond purely theoretical reflection.
In order to address the important concerns of his time, he actively
utilized his knowledge and ideas. Rizal's writings, including his novels
and political essays, served as platforms for social commentary and
reform calls. His analytical rigor and critical thinking skills enabled him
to reveal the errors of Spanish colonialism and to present a vision for a
society that is more just and equal.
Therefore, Rizal's intellectual growth was vital in influencing his works
as a writer, thinker, and social change activist.

Rizal’s Protest Against Spaniard Colonialism

Rizal's protest against Spanish colonialism was influenced by his

intellectual development, through studying, analyzing and writing all
from his observation from seeing Filipino People under Spanish colonial
period. Rizal's intellectual growth came from his study, analysis, and
writing, all of which were inspired by his observations of the Filipino
people living under Spanish colonial rule. He thought the Spanish
colonial authority was oppressive and corrupt and that the Philippines
ought to be a sovereign state. He urged reforms in the Philippines in
order to unite citizens in the battle for independence..
His writings, particularly the novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El
Filibusterismo," offered harsh criticisms of the repressive Spanish
regime and revealed the societal inequities that the Filipino people had
to deal with. Rizal's works sparked a sense of national consciousness and
encouraged a spirit of resistance among Filipinos by shedding attention
on the dire circumstances of his fellow countrymen. Furthermore, future
generations of Filipino revolutionaries found great resonance in Rizal's
emphasis on education as a tool for empowerment and his support of
national pride. His view that self-improvement and education have
transforming power became the cornerstones of the nationalist
movement. A spirit of national pride that sparked the revolution and
finally resulted in the creation of an independent Philippine nation was
sparked by Rizal's appeal for Filipinos to reclaim their cultural history,
embrace their identity, and stand united against colonial oppression.
Guerrero emphasized that Rizal's nonviolent method of protest was a
divergence from the popular idea of armed resistance at the time. He set
the path for a more peaceful and inclusive approach to social
transformation by putting a strong emphasis on intellectual conversation
and the influence of ideas. Rizal thought that society change could be
accomplished without the use of force through discourse, education, and
the transmission of information. The influence of Rizal as a supporter of
nonviolent protest is still felt today in the Philippines and elsewhere. His
unwavering dedication to nonviolence serves as a potent role model for
future activists and leaders who wish to effect positive change in their
communities. The peace movements that have developed throughout
history and fought for social justice, human rights, and democracy can
be recognized as a result of Rizal's influence. Rizal showed that true
progress is not only gauged by the absence of physical violence but also
by the transformation of hearts and minds towards a more just and
compassionate society by opting for intellectual conversation and
nonviolent ways. Sadly, the colonial authorities opposed Rizal despite
his efforts to advance change and independence through nonviolent
means, and he was ultimately imprisoned and put to death. He is
recognized today as a hero who gave his life to secure the freedom of his
people, and his passing served as a focal point for the fight for
independence.
Many are motivated to actively pursue social reform and nation-building
by Rizal's lasting legacy as a national hero and a symbol of Philippine
pride. Those aiming for a more equitable, inclusive, and affluent society
might find inspiration in his life and deeds. In order to show the
multifaceted contributions Rizal made to Philippine civilization, his life
and writings span a wide range of fields. Rizal's principles continue to
be relevant today in a variety of fields, including literature, education,
medicine, and social reform, as Guerrero's thorough investigation makes
clear. The legacy of Rizal is a potent reminder of the ongoing fight for
social justice, the significance of national identity, and the importance of
knowledge. His many accomplishments continue to encourage people to
actively contribute to the advancement of their community and uphold
the principles that Rizal battled for his entire life.
It becomes clear that Rizal's influence goes much beyond his own
lifetime through a critical examination of his challenges, intellectual
growth, protest against Spanish colonialism, and overall
accomplishments. The legacy of Rizal acts as a beacon for the fight for
national freedom, the preservation of culture, and the ongoing quest of
justice and truth. Being the first Filipino, Rizal personifies the spirit of
tenacity, intellectual curiosity, and love of the nation that is still deeply
ingrained in the minds and hearts of the Filipino people.
 Reflection on Jose Rizal’s Novels

Jose Rizal's novels, Noli me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, reflect his

desire for a unified Filipino identity and his belief that the Spanish
colonization was oppressive. His writings inspired a sense of national
consciousness and encouraged Filipinos to embrace their cultural
heritage.

 National identity
 Rizal's writings helped Filipinos envision a unified identity and
celebrate their cultural heritage.
 Oppressive colonization
 Rizal's novels depicted the misery and revolt of Filipinos under
Spanish colonization.
 Selflessness
 Rizal's sacrifice in the name of freedom demonstrates the idea that
love for country requires selflessness.
 Courage
 Rizal's courage in returning to the Philippines to establish a reform
society despite the risk of arrest is an example of his loyalty to his
country.
 About Rizal's novels
 Noli me Tangere was written in Spain in 1887.
 El Filibusterismo was one of Rizal's most popular books.
  Rizal's writings helped Filipinos understand that Spanish rule was
oppressive.

Personal Reflection

The first thing I noticed in Dr. Jose Rizal’s life was that he lived a simple
one. He did not choose to have a luxurious life like the most of us have
wanted. Even before he became under surveillance by the Spaniards, he
had lived his life as simple as possible. I think it was the work of his
parents that made him lived like this. I strongly believe that one’s
lifestyle is influenced mostly by their parents. I learned from the life of
Rizal the importance of taking part of the parents to their children’s
morals.

The second thing that I observed from the life of Rizal was his calmness
and ability to think rationally even in the most complicated
circumstances. His advocacy of Philippine Independence is by legal and
peaceful way that is why he wrote many books in order to fire-up the
revolutionary spirit of the Filipinos.

As an educated man…
Rizal’s philosophy of education centers on the provision of proper
motivation in order to strengthen the great social forces that make
education a success, to create in the youth an innate desire to cultivate
his intelligence and give him life eternal. In this philosophy, I learned
the value of education as a stepping stone towards gaining success for
myself and for my country. Since there is an enough motivation to study
and explore by wisdom, I made this an encouragement to myself that
education shall not only stop within the corners of classrooms but shall
also extend until the corners of the world. Rizal’s belief that waking up
the innate desire of every Filipino youth to cultivate his intelligence is
such a great thing that every individual has to ponder. His philosophy
was affirmed by his educational attainment, thus giving a strong support
of his educational philosophy and giving him the credibility to talk such
path towards educational success.

As a religious man…

Rizal did not believe in the Catholic dogma that salvation was only for
Catholics and that outside Christianity; salvation was not possible even
if Catholics composed only a small minority of the world’s religious
groups. Nor did he believe in the Catholic observation of fasting as a
sacrifice, nor in the sale of such religious items as the cross, medals,
rosaries and the like in order to propagate the Faith and raise church
funds. He also lambasted the superstitious beliefs propagated by the
priests in the church and in the schools. It only shows that Rizal has
really taken hold of salvation as a free gift to everyone. This also shows
that he opposes the Catholic teaching of money indulgence for the
forgiveness of sins. Though Rizal was born from a closely-knit Catholic
Family, he still fought for what is true. His religious philosophy
approves a part of our Wesleyan beliefs and that is a good thing that we
should be happy about. Furthermore, I learned that eventhough he has
gone that far in his attainments, he did not lose his humility and his faith
to God.

As a political man…

Rizal’s guiding political philosophy proved to be the study and

application of reforms, the extension of human rights, the training for
self government and the arousing of spirit of discontent over oppression,
brutality, inhumanity, sensitiveness and self love. Rizal cried out for the
independence of his own country and his fellow men. In his cry, he made
reforms, he plead through his writings and he courageously laid his
opposition against the inhumane and brutal management of the
Spaniards over the Filipinos. One thing I learned from his life is that he
was not terrified with the strong power of the Spaniards but instead he
let himself shine and speak up on the issue that he and his country is
facing. This could be a strong passion and determination to set free a
country that deserves liberty. I also observed on my readings that Rizal
never craved for political power, but instead he served as a catalyst that
silently works great in his own ways. At the end of his life, he has
remained fighting for freedom, and until his last breath, he has fought a
good fight eventhough it caused him his life.

As a socially-equipped man…

Rizal’s social philosophy dealt with;

1. man in society;

2. influential factors in human life;

3. racial problems;

4. social constant;

5. social justice;

6. social ideal;

7. poverty and wealth;

8. reforms;
9. youth and greatness;

10. history and progress;

11. future Philippines.

Basing on these philosophies, I can say that Rizal is a very humane,

compassionate and benevolent citizen. He has dealt with social problems
thru his popular books Noli Me T’angere and El Filibusterismo. He is an
ambassador or social justice and equality, which is a very good thing that
we should follow. If there were only thousands of persons like Rizal, I
believe our society will be at good condition. I always hope I could be
like him in some areas of his life, but I know that it is far from reality to
happen. But what I am doing is that I am performing at my best, making
every effort to become a productive individual in different aspects of
life.

Creative Output (Spoken word poetry)

Kabataan nga ba ang pag-asa ng Bayan?

Ayon kay Dr. Jose Rizal "Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng bayan"
 Ngunit totoo nga ba? Tayo nga ba?

Kabataan pa din ba? Bakit ngayon parang hindi na

Paano nga naman tayo magiging pag-asa kung tayo ang mismong
sumisira

Kita mo ba ang mga kabataang napariwara? Ang mga kaedad natin o

mas bata pa sayo?

Nasa matuwid na daan pa din ba? O tuluyan ng naligaw at hindi na

nakita?

Ngayon mag-isip ka

Himayin ang bawat salita

Nararamdaman mo na ba? Ang dapat ay magandang kinabukasan na

iyong mabubuksan

Tama na! Itigil mo na

Maraming nagmamahal sayo, maraming oportunidad na naghihintay sa

galing mo

Ang sarili mo,

Hindi ka ba naaawa dito?

 Essay
 Outspoken like HIM

A modern Filipino who really lives out the values of José Rizal is
Maria Ressa, the journalist and CEO of Rappler. Like Rizal, Maria isn’t
afraid to speak out against injustice and take on those in power, even
when it puts her at risk. Rizal used his writing to challenge the Spanish
colonizers and point out the problems of his time, while Maria uses her
platform to call out corruption, abuse of power, and threats to
democracy, especially with all the disinformation and fake news floating
around.

Just like Rizal, Maria believes in the power of education and knowledge,
and thinks that an informed public is key to making society better. She’s
been all about pushing for that throughout her career.