Lesson 1

Summary:
Republic Act No. 1425, commonly referred to as the Rizal Law, was enacted on
June 12, 1956. It mandates the study of Dr. Jose Rizal’s life, works, and writings in all
educational institutions in the Philippines, particularly at the collegiate level.
Spearheaded by prominent legislators like Claro Mayo Recto, hailed as the "Father of
the Rizal Law," this legislation requires public and private schools to teach students
about Rizal’s life and his landmark novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. The
goal is to instill nationalism, patriotism, civic responsibility, and character development
among Filipino youth.
Claro Mayo Recto, a nationalist and lawyer, played a pivotal role in advancing the
Rizal Law. He advocated for the inclusion of Rizal’s works in the curriculum to inspire
young Filipinos to understand and value their national identity and cultural heritage.
Recto’s contributions to Philippine intellectual and political life reflect his unwavering
commitment to freedom and nationalism.
The law also requires educational institutions to provide access to Rizal’s works in
their libraries, including translations in major Philippine languages. Furthermore, it
mandates the development of educational materials such as textbooks and primers.
The legislation underscores the importance of teaching Rizal’s sacrifices and ideals to
cultivate a sense of responsibility and dedication to the nation.
Dr. Jose Rizal, born on June 19, 1861, is recognized as the Philippines’ national
hero for his advocacy of nonviolent reforms, promotion of Filipino nationalism, and
ultimate sacrifice. His writings, particularly his novels, awakened the Filipino people's
desire for independence and were instrumental in the revolution against Spanish
colonial rule. Unlike other national heroes who fought through armed resistance, Rizal
inspired change through his pen.
Rizal’s legacy is commemorated through various means, including monuments,
institutions, and schools named in his honor, as well as his likeness featured on
currency and stamps. His life and writings remain a source of inspiration for Filipinos
pursuing justice, freedom, and national progress.
Through the Rizal Law, the values embodied by Rizal’s life continue to influence
the character formation of Filipino youth and contribute to the nation’s ongoing
development.
Reflection:
The Rizal Law, or Republic Act 1425, enacted on June 12, 1956, requires the
study of Dr. Jose Rizal’s life and works in schools to promote nationalism and civic
responsibility among Filipino youth. Rizal’s novels, Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo, inspired the fight for freedom through nonviolent reform.
Claro Mayo Recto, the "Father of the Rizal Law," championed its passage to instill
national pride and cultural awareness. Beyond education, Rizal’s legacy endures
through monuments, institutions, and his influence on Filipino identity and nation-
building. The law ensures his teachings continue shaping future generations.
Lesson 2
Summary:
This lesson recounts the 19th-century Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines,
emphasizing its corrupt and oppressive nature. Spanish officials, including governor
generals, frequently abused their power for personal gain. The lack of Filipino
representation in the Spanish Cortes worsened injustices and left colonial grievances
unaddressed. Filipinos were denied basic human rights, such as freedom of speech and
the press, and faced inequality before the law and exploitation by the colonial
administration.
Frequent changes in leadership further destabilized governance, hindering the
Philippines’ political and economic progress. The lesson also highlights specific abuses,
including the execution of innocents and harsh policies imposed by certain governor
generals. Overall, it paints a bleak picture of Spanish rule marked by corruption,
oppression, and the denial of fundamental rights to Filipinos.
Reflection:
The Rizal Law highlights the impact of colonialism on the Philippines, exposing
the corruption and injustices Filipinos faced under Spanish rule. Colonial officials
abused their power, and the lack of Filipino representation in the Spanish Cortes
worsened their suffering.
Rizal’s works, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, inspired generations to
pursue freedom and reform. Today, his legacy represents resilience and national pride,
motivating Filipinos to embrace civic duties and work toward national progress, ensuring
that history’s lessons shape a better future.
Lesson 3
Summary:
Lesson 3 covers the early life of Dr. José P. Rizal, born on June 19, 1861, in
Calamba, Laguna, as the seventh of eleven children in a well-off family. His parents,
Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso, valued education and discipline. Rizal’s
ancestry included Chinese, Spanish, Japanese, and Filipino roots.
His siblings, especially older brother Paciano, supported his studies, while the
death of his sister Concepcion deeply impacted him. Rizal studied at Ateneo and the
University of Santo Tomas, earning degrees in Medicine and Philosophy.
Rizal’s upbringing, combined with his exposure to various cultures and the
oppression under Spanish rule, shaped his reformist views. His works, like Noli Me
Tangere and El Filibusterismo, played key roles in the Philippine nationalist movement,
and his legacy remains strong even after his execution in 1896.
Reflection:
Dr. José P. Rizal’s life highlights the power of family values, education, and
cultural heritage. Raised in a principled family, he was taught faith, discipline, and
intellectual growth. His diverse heritage, which included Chinese, Spanish, Japanese,
and Filipino roots, broadened his perspective. Despite their wealth, his family embraced
simplicity and community service.
Rizal’s academic success and awareness of Spanish injustices fueled his
revolutionary spirit. His novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, ignited the
Philippine nationalist movement.
Though executed in 1896, Rizal’s legacy as a symbol of resilience, intellectual
curiosity, and patriotism endures.
Lesson 4
Summary:
This lesson explores Dr. Jose Rizal's early life, family, and education, highlighting
the influences that shaped his character. Born into a loving family, Rizal was frail as a
child, with memories of nature, family prayers, and stories from his nursemaid.
The death of his sister Concha introduced him to grief, and his mother, Doña
Teodora, was his first teacher, fostering his love for learning. By age eight, Rizal wrote
his first poem, *"Sa Aking Mga Kabata,"* expressing his patriotism.
Rizal’s education, shaped by private tutors and his uncles, focused on intellectual
growth and independence. His experiences with Spanish injustice fueled his resolve for
freedom, laying the foundation for his future as a national hero.
Reflection:
Dr. Jose Rizal’s early life was instrumental in shaping his character and ideals.
Raised in a loving family in Calamba, Laguna, his childhood was defined by a strong
bond with nature and family traditions. His mother, Doña Teodora, played a key role in
nurturing his love for learning and storytelling, recognizing his talent and encouraging
him to write.
Rizal received a well-rounded education through private tutors and guidance
from his uncles, who emphasized physical health, intellectual growth, and independent
thinking. By the age of eight, he had written his first poem, *”Sa Aking Mga Kabata,”*
reflecting his budding nationalist feelings.
The death of his sister Concha had a profound effect on him, marking his first
encounter with loss. Combined with witnessing the injustices of Spanish rule, this
experience sparked his sense of justice and his determination to fight for freedom.
Rizal’s family, especially the values and education provided by his parents,
played a crucial role in shaping his future as a national hero. His father, Francisco
Mercado, was a dedicated farmer, while his mother, a well-educated woman, nurtured
his literary abilities. The family’s commitment to education and exposure to various
cultures influenced Rizal’s perspective and fueled his passion for reform.
In conclusion, Rizal’s upbringing, family values, and education equipped him
with the courage, intellect, and passion that would define his legacy as a national hero.
Lesson 5
Summary:
This chapter explores Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s educational journey, focusing on his
growth from Biñan to Ateneo de Manila and his achievements as a student.
Education in Biñan:
Rizal studied under Maestro Justiniano Aquino Cruz, excelling in Spanish and Latin
despite early challenges. He also trained as a painter, becoming one of the top artists in
his class.
Education at Ateneo:
Rizal enrolled at Ateneo in 1872, where the Jesuit system emphasized discipline and
intellectual growth. He quickly became the top student and earned his first award. In his
free time, he took private Spanish lessons and read widely.
Literary Contributions:
Under Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, Rizal honed his writing skills. His poem”
Through Education the Motherland Receives Light” highlighted the role of education in
national progress, along with other works on religion and history.

Significance of His Work:

Rizal’s early writings showed his intellectual growth and patriotism, focusing on
education, faith, and knowledge as tools for uplifting the Filipino people.
This chapter highlights how Rizal’s academic success and ideals shaped him into a
national hero and advocate for Philippine independence.
Reflection:
Dr. Jose Rizal's education was vital in shaping his extraordinary life. He excelled
in Spanish and Latin under Maestro Justiniano Aquino Cruz in Biñan, overcoming early
challenges. His artistic skills also developed under painter Juancho’s guidance.
At Ateneo Municipal de Manila, Rizal’s intellectual drive earned him top honors.
Mentored by Father Francisco de Paula Sanchez, he refined his skills in rhetoric and
poetry, producing works like "Through Education the Motherland Receives Light" and
"Mi Primera Inspiracion," reflecting his growing patriotism.
Rizal’s educational journey fueled his passion for knowledge, creativity, and
national pride. His achievements demonstrate the transformative power of education,
which laid the foundation for his leadership in the Philippine independence movement.
His legacy continues to inspire, emphasizing education’s role in shaping national
identity and progress.
Lesson 6
Summary:
This lesson covers Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s higher education and early life abroad. At
Ateneo de Manila (1872-1877), Rizal earned top honors and was praised as the "Pride
of the Jesuits" for his academic excellence. He then enrolled at the University of Santo
Tomas (UST) in 1877 for advanced studies, while also studying surveying at Ateneo.
Though his father supported his decision to study in Manila, his mother was concerned
about the risks under Spanish rule.
At UST, Rizal faced discrimination and brutality, including an assault by a civil
guard, which left him disillusioned. Despite this, he excelled in literary contests, writing
works like A La Juventud Filipina and El Consejo de los Dioses, which subtly promoted
nationalist ideals.
Frustrated with the oppressive environment at UST, Rizal left for Europe in 1882,
seeking intellectual freedom and a broader education. This marked a pivotal moment in
his journey to become a nationalist and reform advocate.
Reflection:
Dr. Jose Rizal's education was marked by achievements and challenges. At
Ateneo de Manila, he earned high honors, while at the University of Santo Tomas, he
faced discrimination. Despite this, his literary works, like "A La Juventud Filipina" and "El
Consejo de los Dioses," subtly promoted nationalism.
Frustrated with the oppressive environment at UST, Rizal sought intellectual
freedom in Europe, a decision made in secret. His experiences abroad shaped his
advocacy for reform and independence.
Rizal's journey highlights the power of education to foster critical thinking and
inspire change, turning adversity into an opportunity for progress.
Lesson 7
Summary:
This lesson offers a detailed exploration of Rizal’s education, travels, and the
evolution of his nationalist beliefs. It aims to shed light on his experiences at Ateneo and
the University of Santo Tomas, compare the educational system of his era to today’s,
and highlight his dedication and contributions to Philippine independence through his
writings.
Rizal’s choice to study abroad was driven by both the racial discrimination he
faced at UST and his intellectual curiosity. In 1882, he traveled to Spain under the name
Jose Mercado, supported both financially and emotionally by his family. His journey took
him from Singapore to various European cities, including Barcelona, where he began
embracing the culture of liberalism and independence. His first major work in Spain,
“Love of Country” (“Amor Patrio”), published in Diario Tagalog, expressed his deep love
for the Philippines and urged Filipinos to fight for their freedom.
While in Madrid, Rizal enrolled at the Central University of Madrid, where he
studied medicine and philosophy. Alongside his formal education, he also took courses
in arts and languages and actively engaged in fencing and shooting. His involvement
with the Hispano-Philippine Circle led him to write poems like “They Ask Me for Verses,”
which reflected his feelings of loneliness and exile.
Rizal later moved to Paris and Berlin to further his medical studies, specializing
in ophthalmology to treat his mother’s eye condition. His time in Europe exposed him to
new political and social ideas, especially through his participation in the Masonic lodge,
which played a significant role in shaping his anti-colonial views.
Throughout his travels, Rizal kept in touch with influential figures such as
Ferdinand Blumentritt, building intellectual networks that supported his fight for
Philippine independence. His European experiences, along with his literary works like
essays and poems, cemented his status as a visionary leader committed to uplifting the
Filipino people through education, reform, and peaceful resistance.
Reflection:
Dr. Jose Rizal’s journey reflects the power of education, cultural exchange, and
nationalism. Facing discrimination at the University of Santo Tomas, he embraced
liberal ideals in Spain and connected with key thinkers. His works like Noli Me Tangere
and El Filibusterismo sparked Filipino nationalism and the fight for independence.
Rizal’s legacy shows how education and peaceful resistance can shape a brighter
future.
Lesson 8
Summary:
Lesson 8 examines the significance of José Rizal's novel Noli Me Tangere and its
impact on Philippine society both during the Spanish colonial era and in modern times.
It encourages students to connect the novel's themes to present-day issues, fostering
nationalism, critical thinking, and appreciation for Rizal’s commitment to social justice.
The lesson also emphasizes the virtues depicted in the novel.
Noli Me Tangere was Rizal’s response to the political and social conditions in the
Philippines. Written alone by Rizal, it was published in 1887 with the financial help of
Maximo Viola. The novel exposed the abuses of the Spanish clergy and government,
inspiring Filipino nationalism. Its Latin title, meaning "Touch Me Not," reflects themes of
social awakening and resistance to oppression.
The story follows Crisostomo Ibarra, a young man returning to the Philippines,
who faces corruption and injustice. His dream of progress through education contrasts
with the power of figures like Father Damaso, representing the corrupt clergy. Other
characters, such as Maria Clara, Elias, and Sisa, represent different aspects of Filipino
life under colonial rule.
Despite being condemned by the Church and Spanish authorities, Noli Me
Tangere helped unite Filipinos across regional and linguistic divides. Through studying
the novel, students are encouraged to reflect on its call for social reform, education, and
unity.
Reflection:
Jose Rizal's *Noli Me Tangere* is a groundbreaking novel that continues to hold
significance for Filipinos today. Written during the Spanish colonial period, it boldly
revealed the corruption, abuse of power, and societal inequities of the time. Through
characters like Crisostomo Ibarra, Maria Clara, and Elias, Rizal skillfully explored
themes of resistance, social awakening, and nationalism. The novel's lasting message
highlights the role of education in driving progress, the importance of unity in diversity,
and the need for critical thinking to bring about social change.
Rizal's work goes beyond its historical context, offering timeless lessons that
remain relevant to modern Philippine society. Its influence reaches far beyond literature,
symbolizing the power of visionary leadership and the pursuit of social justice.
Reflecting on *Noli Me Tangere* reaffirms our dedication to nationalism, unity, and the
fight for a more just society.
Lesson 9
Summary:
José Rizal returned to the Philippines in 1887 after five years abroad, driven by
his love for his country and a sense of duty. Despite gaining knowledge and making
connections abroad, his loyalty remained with the Philippines. Upon his return, he
treated his mother’s eye condition, evaluated the impact of Noli Me Tangere, and
addressed local issues. Rizal was welcomed in Manila but faced threats due to his
novel. He opened a free medical clinic in Calamba and introduced European sports to
discourage vices.
Noli Me Tangere sparked both praise and criticism. While Governor General
Emilio Terrero supported Rizal, the novel was banned, fueling its underground
popularity. Critics denounced it as heretical, while defenders emphasized its merit. Rizal
also stood up for Calamba's tenants against the Dominican hacienda’s injustices.
Though Terrero didn’t have grounds to deport him, he advised Rizal to leave for safety,
leading to his second journey abroad.
The chapter also highlights Rizal’s Hymn to Labor, celebrating the importance of
work in building a stronger nation. Ultimately, it underscores Rizal's contributions as a
doctor, writer, and nationalist, committed to reform despite the dangers he faced.
Reflection:
In 1888, after threats to his family and the need for reforms, José Rizal returned
to Europe. He began his journey in Hong Kong, moved to Japan, where he experienced
the culture and met O-Sei-San, then went to the U.S. and eventually settled in London.
There, he annotated Antonio Morga’s Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas, improved his
English, and wrote for La Solidaridad, advocating for Filipino rights and founding the
Asociacion Hispano-Filipino.

Rizal continued his work in Paris and Brussels, where he dealt with the
worsening situation in Calamba and sought justice in Madrid. Despite personal
struggles, including the marriage of his fiancée Leonor Rivera, Rizal completed *El
Filibusterismo* in 1891, with support from Valentin Ventura.
El Filibusterismo is a darker sequel to Noli Me Tangere, following Ibarra's
transformation into Simoun, a revolutionary seeking revenge against the Spanish.
Simoun plans to incite rebellion by manipulating the elite, but his plan fails when his
bomb is sabotaged by Isagani, who acts out of love. In the end, Simoun confesses his
motives to Father Florentino, who disposes of Simoun's jewels, symbolizing hope for a
better future.
The document contrasts the two novels: Noli is a reformist, romantic story, while
Fili is about vengeance and revolution. Both critique Spanish rule and fuel Filipino
nationalism, playing a significant role in the country’s history.
Lesson 10
Summary:
After experiencing threats to his family and the pressing need for reforms, José
Rizal returned to Europe in 1888. His travels took him from Hong Kong to Japan, where
he immersed himself in the culture and met O-Sei-San, before continuing to the U.S.
and eventually settling in London. In London, Rizal focused on annotating Antonio
Morga’s Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas, improving his English, and writing for La
Solidaridad, all while advocating for Filipino rights and founding the Asociacion Hispano-
Filipino.
In Paris, Rizal pursued his studies, created sculptures, and established the
Indios Bravos to promote Filipino pride and excellence. When he moved to Brussels, he
became increasingly concerned with the worsening agrarian issues in Calamba and
sought justice in Madrid, where his family was facing persecution. Despite personal
setbacks, such as Leonor Rivera’s marriage, Rizal completed El Filibusterismo in 1891,
with financial support from Valentin Ventura.
El Filibusterismo is a darker follow-up to Noli Me Tangere, portraying the
transformation of Crisostomo Ibarra into Simoun, a revolutionary bent on avenging the
oppression of the Spanish regime. Simoun manipulates Manila’s elite to stir rebellion.
Basilio, a medical student, initially resists joining the revolution, but after the death of his
fiancée, Juli, he aligns with Simoun. Simoun’s plot to bomb a wedding and eliminate
Spanish authorities fails when Isagani, motivated by love, sabotages the plan. Exposed
and on the run, Simoun confesses his motives to Father Florentino before dying, and
the priest disposes of Simoun’s jewels in the sea, symbolizing hope for a brighter future
and a rightful revolution.
The comparison between Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo shows the shift
In Rizal’s thinking. While Noli is a romantic, reform-driven work, Fili is a political,
vengeful story focused on revolution. Both novels criticize Spanish colonial rule and
played significant roles in inspiring Filipino nationalism and the eventual revolution.
Despite differing views on which novel is superior, both are essential in Philippine
history.
Reflection:
After returning to Europe in 1888, José Rizal traveled extensively, meeting
influential figures like O-Sei-San in Japan and settling in London. During this time, he
worked on annotating Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas, improving his English, and writing
for La Solidaridad. He also founded the Asociacion Hispano-Filipino to defend Filipino
rights and established the Indios Bravos in Paris to promote Filipino excellence.
In Brussels, Rizal faced worsening agrarian issues in Calamba and family
persecution in Madrid. Despite personal struggles, such as Leonor Rivera’s marriage,
he completed El Filibusterismo in 1891. The novel, a darker sequel to Noli Me Tangere,
explored themes of vengeance and revolution, depicting Crisostomo Ibarra’s
transformation into Simoun, a revolutionary seeking to overthrow Spanish rule.
Lesson 11
Summary:
Lesson 11 focuses on Dr. José Rizal's return to Asia after publishing El
Filibusterismo. He moved to Hong Kong to escape his rivalry with Marcelo H. del Pilar,
support the Propaganda Movement, and be closer to his family. There, he worked as an
eye surgeon and proposed the Borneo Colonization Project to help Filipinos displaced
by agrarian issues, but the Spanish rejected it.
In 1892, Rizal returned to Manila and founded La Liga Filipina to unite Filipinos
and advocate for reform. Soon after, he was arrested and exiled to Dapitan, where he
used his skills as a physician, teacher, engineer, and inventor to improve the
community. He built a water system, introduced modern farming methods, and started a
school offering both academic and vocational training.
During his exile, Rizal had a relationship with Josephine Bracken, though they
couldn’t marry. Despite personal struggles, he remained dedicated to Filipino freedom.
Though he opposed the premature revolution of the Katipunan, he understood the
people's desire for independence. His exile ended in 1896 when he volunteered as a
surgeon for the Spanish army in Cuba, leading to his arrest on false charges of
rebellion.
The lesson highlights Rizal’s lasting impact, his unwavering dedication to his
country, and his ultimate sacrifice for Filipino independence.
Reflection:
Dr. José Rizal's return to Asia after publishing El Filibusterismo marked a key
moment in his life. He moved to Hong Kong, where he advanced his medical practice
and proposed the Borneo Colonization Project to address agrarian issues, though it was
rejected.
In 1892, Rizal returned to Manila and founded La Liga Filipina, a group
advocating for reform. His exile to Dapitan (1892-1896) showcased his resilience as he
improved the community through medicine, education, and innovation. His personal life,
including his relationship with Josephine Bracken and the loss of their child, highlighted
his humanity.
Rizal’s legacy extends beyond his martyrdom, inspiring social reform,
intellectual growth, and patriotism. His selflessness and perseverance continue to
resonate with people worldwide.
Lesson 12
Summary:
This lesson delves into the final chapter of Dr. José Rizal’s life, covering his
exile, trial, and eventual execution. After founding La Liga Filipina in 1892, a group
dedicated to advocating for Filipino reforms, Rizal was exiled to Dapitan by the Spanish
authorities. Despite his exile, Rizal remained committed to improving the welfare of
Filipinos in Dapitan by providing medical care, building infrastructure, and contributing to
local education. His time there revealed his versatility, as he worked as a doctor,
teacher, farmer, engineer, and even inventor, positively impacting the community.
However, despite Rizal’s peaceful approach and his reluctance to directly
engage in revolution, the rise of the Katipunan movement and increasing calls for
independence led to his eventual arrest. Rizal was accused of being involved in the
revolutionary activities and was charged with treason and rebellion. He was tried in a
military court, and despite the lack of concrete evidence linking him to the revolution, he
was convicted and sentenced to death.
On December 30, 1896, Rizal was executed by a firing squad in Luneta,
Manila. His death became a turning point in the Philippine struggle for independence,
igniting a stronger sense of nationalism among Filipinos. Rizal’s execution stirred deep
emotions and inspired many to join the fight against Spanish colonial rule. His
martyrdom cemented his legacy as a national hero, admired for his dedication to reform,
intellectual contributions, and ultimate sacrifice for the cause of Filipino freedom. Rizal’s
life and death continue to inspire generations of Filipinos, embodying the values of
patriotism, selflessness, and the pursuit of justice.
Reflection:
Dr. José Rizal’s life and his eventual execution reflect the sacrifices made for
justice and freedom. His dedication to reform, even during his exile in Dapitan, shows
his deep commitment to improving the lives of Filipinos. Despite his opposition to
violence and preference for peaceful reform, Rizal's execution became a turning point
that united Filipinos and fueled the desire for independence.
Rizal’s life teaches the importance of moral integrity, intellectual courage, and
the power of ideas. His decision to stay true to his principles, even in the face of
adversity, is a powerful reminder of the strength needed to bring about change. His
martyrdom, though tragic, inspired generations to continue fighting for a just and free
nation. Rizal’s legacy is a reminder that selflessness and dedication to one’s country
can leave an enduring impact on future generations.