Ernest Renan (1823-1892) was a French philosopher, historian, and writer, renowned for his influential works on religion and early Christianity. He is best known for his book "Life of Jesus" (Vie de Jésus), which presented a historical-critical approach to the life of Jesus, challenging traditional religious views. Renan's scholarship extended to Semitic languages and civilizations, and he held academic positions, including a professorship at the Collège de France. His ideas on nationalism, particularly in his essay "What is a Nation?", continue to be significant in discussions of national identity and cultural heritage. Renan's work often sparked controversy, but his intellectual legacy remains impactful in the fields of history, religious studies, and philosophy.

Claro M. Recto was a distinguished Filipino politician, lawyer, and nationalist, born on February 8, 1890, in Tiaong, Tayabas (now Quezon). He played a pivotal role in shaping the Philippines' political landscape, most notably as the principal author of the 1935 Philippine Constitution during his presidency of the 1934 Constitutional Convention. Recto was a fervent advocate for Philippine independence and a vocal critic of U.S. neocolonialism, championing Filipino-first policies throughout his career. He served in various high-profile positions, including senator, Associate Justice of the Supreme Court, and member of the House of Representatives. Recto's legacy is marked by his unwavering commitment to nationalism and his efforts to promote the sovereignty and dignity of the Filipino people. He passed away on October 2, 1960, in Rome, Italy.