Senator Claro M. Recto, who authored the Rizal Bill, received support from Senator Jose P. Laurel, Sr., who served as Chairman of the Committee on Education. Both legislators were renowned for their unwavering commitment to nationalism. This shared devotion to their country served as the driving force behind the passage of this law, with the objective of liberating the nation from external influences and fostering an independent stance, echoing the principles and values advocated by Jose Rizal.
Both Recto and Laurel believed that the Philippines needed to assert its independence not only politically, but also intellectually and culturally. They sought to foster a sense of Filipino nationalism that was rooted in a secular framework, emphasizing the importance of national identity based on shared history, language, and culture rather than religious affiliation. Their ideas and advocacy contributed to shaping the discourse on nationalism and secularism in the Philippines.
The Rizal Law was specifically designed to target the Filipino youth, aiming to rekindle their patriotic spirit and instill a profound belief in their own country. It sought to ignite a sense of nationalism among the younger generation, encouraging them to embrace their heritage and contribute to the development and progress of the Philippines.
Overall, the Rizal Law is considered necessary to ensure that future generations of Filipinos are educated about their national heritage, instilling in them a love for their country, a sense of responsibility, and a commitment to the ideals that Jose Rizal represented.