CHAPTER 5

RIZALS WRITING: ILLUMINATING PHILIPPINE HISTORY AND SOCIETY: THREE SIGNIFICANT ARTICLES

This chapter discusses Dr. José Rizal's crucial contributions to the awakening of Filipino nationalism during the Spanish colonial era. The lessons focus on Rizal's significant writings, particularly the essay "Filipinas Dentro de Cien Años," which evaluate the colonial state of the Philippines and imagine potential futures for the nation, including independence through revolution. The discussion focuses on Rizal's support for nonviolent reform, intellectual leadership, and heroism, or kabayanihan. Rizal not only instilled a feeling of identity and solidarity among Filipinos through education, social enterprise, and community development—particularly during his exile in Dapitan—but also embodied principles such as patriotism, service, moral courage, and self-sacrifice. This chapter also discusses the historical rise of nationalism, the choosing of national heroes, and Rizal's legacy as a symbol of nonviolent resistance and national pride.

The three significant essays of RIZAL

Filipinas Dentro de Cien Años

By Dr. José Rizal, published in La Solidaridad (1889–1890)

José Rizal, through his influential writings, helped awaken Filipino nationalism during the Spanish colonial period. In "Filipinas Dentro de Cien Años" (The Philippines a Century Hence), published in La Solidaridad from 1889 to 1890, Rizal analyzed the country's history and predicted three possible futures: continued Spanish rule with reforms, colonization by another foreign power, or independence through revolution. He warned Spain that ongoing oppression would inevitably lead to uprising.

|Purpose of the Essay

Predict the future of the Philippines

Rizal sought to provide a realistic forecast of the Philippines' fate if colonial abuses persisted or if reforms were introduced. He explored different paths the country might take. Whether remaining under Spanish control, being colonized by another power, or gaining independence.

Warn Spain about the effects of abuse

Rizal used the essay to caution Spanish authorities that their oppressive rule would have consequences. He believed that mistreatment, inequality, and denial of Filipino rights would not be tolerated forever and could lead to violent resistance.

Inspire Filipinos to think about independence

Beyond simply critiquing Spain, Rizal wanted to spark a sense of pride and ambition among Filipinos. He hoped they would start to envision a future where they could govern themselves and take control of their own destiny.

|Predictions

Philippines stays under Spain

Rizal imagined that if Spain treated Filipinos with respect and gave them equal rights and representation, the Philippines might willingly remain a colony. However, he saw this as a less likely outcome due to Spain’s track record of oppression.

Taken over by another country

He feared that if Spain continued its abuse and failed to modernize, a stronger foreign nation. Such as the United States, Germany, or Japan, could conquer the Philippines, seeing it as a weak and poorly governed territory ripe for takeover.

Becomes independent through revolution

Rizal predicted that if injustices continued, the Filipino people would rise up and revolt. He believed the spirit of resistance was already growing and that revolution could eventually lead to the country’s independence.

|Warning to Spain

Continued abuse would lead to revolution

Rizal directly warned that the Spanish government’s continued denial of justice and freedom would not go unchallenged. He believed the patience of the Filipino people was running out, and rebellion would be the natural outcome of constant oppression.

Filipinos were not lazy, but made weak by oppression

Rizal refuted the Spanish claim that Filipinos were naturally lazy. He argued that colonial rule had stripped people of motivation, opportunity, and hope, turning once industrious people into passive victims of an unjust system.

Rise of Nationalism

Nationalism was growing stronger

– Rizal observed that Filipinos were becoming more aware of their identity and rights.

Identity was being revived

– He noted a cultural awakening where Filipinos started taking pride in their heritage, language, and traditions.

|Conclusion

Rizal’s predictions came true

– Many of his foresights were realized, especially the revolution and eventual independence from Spain.

Essay helped spark Filipino nationalism

– This work became a key influence in shaping the national movement and encouraging collective action.

Jose Rizal and the Philippine Nationalism:

Bayani and Kabayanihan

A Hero or “Bayani” in tagalog is somebody that saves lives, However, a hero can be anyone that does something they have fear of but are brave enough to do something still. The essential trate of a hero is bravery.

Bayani and Kabayanihan

|Historical figures like Doctor Jose Rizal, General Antonio Luna, and Flor Contemplacion are sited as examples of filipino heroes who sacrifice for freedom and family.

It emphasizes that heroism today doesn’t always require sacrificing one’s life: simple acts of service, like helping others in everday situations, are forms of “Kabayanihan” (heroism).

Dr. Jose Rizal: A National Hero

He fought for the country's freedom without using violence. Instead, he wrote books and expressed his thoughts to awaken the minds of Filipinos against the Spanish colonizers.

He fought for the country's freedom without using violence. Instead, he wrote books and expressed his thoughts to awaken the minds of Filipinos against the Spanish colonizers.

|Why Rizal is a National Hero?

He was a true Filipino who loved his country. conditional love: He showed unwavering dedication to the Philippines.

Peaceful reform: He advocated for peaceful change, making him a symbol of non-violent resistance.

Progressive Education

The progressive school movement deconstructed the taken-for-granted idea that the school is an enclave where the student learns first and then later, after graduation gets a job and hopefully, becomes a productive member of the community. Against this notion, progressive education advocated and practiced the principle that the school is integral in working and promoting the well-being of the community all at the same time.

Social Entrepreneurship

Rizal formed Dapitan's first farmer's cooperative the Sociedad de Agriculture Dapitanos (SAD), where capital was to be provided by Socios industriales (Industrial Partners) and Socio Accionistas (Share Holders). January 1, 1895, the cooperative aimed to improve/promote agricultural products, obtain their profits for them, and provide capital for the purchase of goods and help to an extent possible, the harvesters and laborers have a store where articles of necessity are sold at moderate prices.

Community Development

Built a hospital in Dapitan
Formed the Sociedad de Agricultores Dapitanos (SAD)
Engineered improvements in town infrastructure
Practiced service and leadership

Rizal Awakened the Mind and Perspective of Filipinos to-wards Nationalism

Noli Me Tangere

El Filibusterismo

Rizal’s novels

Exposed the abuses and injustices committed by Spanish friars and officials.
Opened the eyes of Filipinos to the harsh realities of their oppression.

|Impact on the Filipino people

Awakened their awareness of their true situation under colonial rule.
Indirectly sparked the Philippine Revolution by inspiring a strong sense of injustice and the desire for change.

|Rizal’s intention

Did not advocate bloody revolution or violence.
Wanted peaceful reforms through education, political changes, and enlightenment.

|Contribution to Filipino nationalism

Ignited a sense of nationalism among Filipinos.
Encouraged Filipinos to strive for reform and freedom through peaceful and intelligent means.

Philippine

Nationalism

1. It is an idea where the meaning on how people view things according to their personal experiences and beliefs.

2. A feeling of belongingness which boosts the spirit of oneness with fellow compatriots.

3. Viewed as a fundamental building block in the attainment of national unity and progress

4. Does not exist overnight nor a sentiment that burst our in just one day— it develops gradually

5. A product nourished by shared ideals and aspiration for national freedom and identity

What is Nationalism?

Rizal was the foremost nationalist symbol of his time that unlike all other had the dream of the future of the Philippines.

Rizal expresses nationalism as the impression of oneness by an assemblage of people who hold shared customs, communal history, a set of goals, and credence in a specific future.

The Start of Filipino Nationalism (the 1760s-1820s)

The term “Filipino” started from spanish criollos that settled in the Philippines. In the 333-year rule of the Philippines, the Spanish leaders referred to the natives as indios. Spaniards born in the mainland but residing in the Philippines were referred to as peninsulares. Those with mixed ancestry referred to as mestizos. The Philippines Revolution of 1896 was the backbone of the first nationalist revolution in asia.

Essential factors that brought significant change:

1. Economy

TRADE ROUTE STARTED IN 1568
GALLEON TRADE BETWEEN MANILA AND ACAPULCO DECLINED
CREOLES TURN THEIR ATTENTION TO AGRICULTURAL PRODUCTION
TWO INSTITUTIONS WERE ESTABLISHED IN THE 1780's
CHINESE AND INDIAN GOODS WERE BEING SHIPPED DIRECTLY TO SPAIN VIA THE CAPE OF GOOD HOPE

2. Education

GOVERNOR-GENERAL JOSE RAIN, IMPLEMENTED THE ROYAL ORDER FROM SPAIN
DURING 18TH CENTURY MODERN AGRICULTURAL TOOLS MADE MANY PEOPLE LEAVE FARMING FOR PURSUING ACADEMIC AND INTELLECTUAL COURSES
THE PHILIPPINES HAD MORE DIRECT CONTACT WITH EUROPE AND IDEAS CIRCULATING

3. Secularization Issues of Parishes

KING CARLOS III ORDERED THE JESUITS TO BE EXPELLED FROM SPAIN AND ALL HER COLONIES
BASILIO SANCHO DE SANTA JUSTA, LAUNCHED HIS PROJECT “THE SECULARIZATION OF PHILIPPINE PARISHES”
THE SECULARIZATION PARTLY FAILED BECAUSE OF NEWLY FORMED CLERGY’S IGNORANCE AND SLOTH.

Jose Rizal and Philippine Nationalism: National Symbol

Official National Symbols of the Philippines:

The flag
Lupang Hinirang (national anthem)
Sampaguita (national flower)
Narra tree
Philippine eagle (national bird)
Philippine pearl (national gem)
Arnis (national sport)

Unofficial but Traditional National Symbols:

Mango and banana (fruits)
Carabao and tamaraw (animals)
Bahay kubo (traditional house)
Adobo or sinigang (food)
Tinikling or cariñosa (dances)

Jose Rizal as an Unofficial National Symbol

Even though Rizal is not officially called a national symbol, many Filipinos see him as one because he represents our country’s soul. His life, works, and memory are strongly tied to our identity as a nation.

|Global Recognition of Rizal

Rizal is known even outside the Philippines. Places in other countries where he lived or visited have monuments of him. Books about him are found in foreign libraries, and people connect his name with the Philippines.

|Enduring Influence of Rizal's Legacy

Rizal's birthday and death are still remembered across the country. Many towns, schools, and streets are named after him. His ideas are still talked about by teachers, writers, and leaders. Even today, people still use his teachings to inspire change and unity.

Jose Rizal as an Unofficial National Symbol

|Global Recognition of Rizal

|Enduring Influence of Rizal's Legacy

Values Highlighted by Rizal’s Life: Nationalism and Patriotism

Value: Patriotism

Rizal showed deep love for the Philippines. His ideas were meant to help Filipinos grow as a nation—politically, culturally, and economically. He wanted people to love their country and work for its progress.

Value: Faith in God

Even while studying far from home, Rizal never lost his faith in God. When his sister died, he trusted that it was part of God’s plan. His faith gave him strength during hard times.

Value: Love of Fellowmen

Rizal believed in caring for others. He thought we should help our neighbors and be involved in their lives. His love for people was based on kindness and respect for everyone.

Value: Love of Parents

Rizal loved his parents deeply. He even studied medicine to help his mother’s eyesight. He made sculptures of his father to show his love and respect. He was a very devoted son.

Value: Devotion to Truth

Rizal believed people should always tell the truth. He studied hard to understand the problems of Filipinos. He wanted to find the real reasons for the country’s struggles and help fix them.

Value: Purity and Idealism

Rizal didn’t just think about what was easy or practical. He lived by his beliefs and kept his thoughts clean and pure. He had big dreams for the country and stayed true to them.

Value: Noble Thought and Conduct

Rizal taught people to think good thoughts and do good deeds. His writings encouraged parents to raise children with strong values and positive behavior.

Value: Charity

Rizal found happiness in helping others. He made sacrifices for the country and for his fellow Filipinos because he wanted to give them a better life.

Value: Dedication to Duty

Rizal gave his whole life for his country. He was fully committed to helping the Philippines become free and happy, even if it meant sacrificing his own life.

Value: Moral Courage

He was brave enough to do what was right for his country, even if it was dangerous. Rizal didn't back down from his mission, even when it was risky.

Value: Willpower

Rizal believed in himself and his people, even though others told them they weren’t good enough. He stayed strong and never gave up on the idea that Filipinos deserved freedom.

Value: Sincerity

He was humble and honest about who he was. Rizal accepted that his talents came from God and used them to fulfill his purpose in life.

Value: Self-Denial

Rizal gave up his own wants to focus on helping others. He put his country first, even if it meant setting aside his personal dreams.

Value: Perseverance

Even when things got hard or dangerous, Rizal kept going. He never gave up on fighting for a better future for Filipinos.

Value: Discipline and Self-Control

Rizal had the ability to control his desires and emotions. He thought things through and made wise decisions, even if it meant saying no to things that weren’t good for him.

Value: Initiative

Rizal didn’t wait for others—he acted first, especially when it came to helping the country.

Value: Prudence

He was wise and careful in making decisions. He always thought ahead and picked the best, most respectful way to do things.

Value: Chivalry, Courtesy, and Politeness

Rizal was a true gentleman. He respected others, defended women, and treated people with kindness and class.

Value: Frugality

Rizal knew how to save money and be practical. Instead of buying new shoes, he repaired old ones. He even cut out a chapter in Noli Me Tangere to save on printing costs.

Value: Love for Justice

He cared deeply about fairness. Rizal stood up for what was right, not just for himself, but for all Filipinos—even if it meant giving up his life.

Executive Order No. 75, 1993 National Heroes Committee Rizal as National Hero

On March 28, 1993, President Fidel V. Ramos issued Executive Order No. 75 entitled “Creating the National Heroes Committe under the Office of the President.” The principal duty of the Committee is to study, evaluate and recommend Filipino national personages/heroes in due recognition of their real character and remarkable achievements for the country.

10 Criteria for Choosing National Heroes (E.O. 75, 1993):

Have made big sacrifices for the country.
Have pure intentions and used good, moral ways to help.
Have good moral character (no shady background).
Be influential in their time or later generations.
Fight for freedom, especially when the country is in danger.
Help bring peace, order, and better living conditions.
Improve the nation’s quality of life and future.
Be recognized and respected by the people.
Think about the next generations, not just the present.
Be judged based on their whole life, not just one heroic moment.

Recommended National Heroes by the NHC

JOSE RIZAL

ANDRES BONIFACIO

EMILIO AGUINALDO

APOLINARIO MABINI

MARCELO H. DEL PILAR

SULTAN DIPATUAN KUDARAT

JUAN LUNA

MELCHORA AQUINO

GABRIELA SILANG

GRAPHIC ORGANIZER: PHILIPPINE NATIONALISM

Filipino Nationalism: Sparked by patriotic sentiments due to Spanish colonization, leading to the Philippine Revolution of 1896.
Cavite Mutiny: 1872 uprising by Filipino soldiers and workers; regarded as the start of the nationalist movement.
GOMBURZA Execution: Execution of three priests (Gomez, Burgos, Zamora) in 1872, inspiring future nationalists like Jose Rizal.
Secularization Movement: Conflict between regular and secular priests over control of parishes, highlighting Filipinos’ push for inclusion.
Liberal Regime of De La Torre: Liberal Spanish governor who supported Filipino aspirations.
Opening of Philippines to World Commerce: Economic modernization and the rise of the middle class (ilustrados) from 1839 to 1880.
Influx of Liberal Ideas: Exposure to Western political ideas and philosophies after the opening of the Suez Canal in 1869.

Chapter 5

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