Remembering Rizal: The Legacy of a
National Hero
Table of Contents
1. Introduction: Who Was José Rizal?
2. The Enduring Memory of Rizal
3. Rizal’s Contributions to the Philippines
4. Literary Influence and Writings
5. The Path to National Hero Recognition
6. Core Values Learned from Rizal
7. Rizal’s Legacy in Modern Society
8. Conclusion
Introduction: Who Was José Rizal?
Dr. José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda was a man of extraordinary talent and
intellect. Born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, he grew up to become a polymath—a
person whose knowledge spans a wide range of subjects. He was a physician, a novelist, a
poet, a scientist, a linguist, and a revolutionary thinker.
Unlike many revolutionaries of his time who took up arms, Rizal fought for Philippine
independence through his pen and his mind. He believed that the greatest weapon against
colonial oppression was not violence, but education and the awakening of the national
consciousness.
Why Rizal is Remembered Today
Rizal is remembered not just for how he lived, but for the profound impact of his death. His
execution by the Spanish colonial government on December 30, 1896, served as the final spark
that ignited the Philippine Revolution.
“To remember Rizal is to remember the Filipino struggle for dignity and self-determination.”
He is honored as a martyr who sacrificed his life for a country that was not yet free. His ability to
articulate the sufferings of his people and his unwavering commitment to truth made him the
intellectual leader of the nationalist movement.
Rizal’s Contributions to the Philippines
Rizal’s contributions were diverse and touched almost every aspect of Filipino life.
Field Contribution
Medicine As an ophthalmologist, he performed the first successful cataract surgery in
the Philippines on his own mother.
Literature He wrote the novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, which exposed
the injustices of Spanish rule.
Science During his exile in Dapitan, he discovered several species of animals,
including the Draco rizali (a flying lizard).
Education He established a school in Dapitan, teaching local boys languages,
mathematics, and martial arts.
Civic He designed a water system for the community in Dapitan and engaged in
Works agricultural reforms.
Literary Influence and Writings
Rizal’s writings were his most powerful tools for change. Through his novels, he gave a voice to
the voiceless and exposed the “social cancer” that was eating away at Philippine society.
Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not): This novel depicted the corruption of the Spanish friars
and the apathy of the Filipino elite. It served as a call for social reform.
El Filibusterismo (The Reign of Greed): The sequel was darker and more political,
exploring the themes of revolution and the consequences of failed reforms.
Mi Ultimo Adios (My Last Farewell): Written in his final hours, this poem is a beautiful and
haunting expression of his love for the Philippines.
Example of Influence: His writings were so influential that they were banned by the Spanish
authorities. Possession of his books was considered an act of treason, yet they were smuggled
into the country and read in secret, fueling the desire for independence.
National Hero Recognition
While Rizal is widely regarded as the National Hero of the Philippines, it is interesting to note
that there is no official law that explicitly proclaims him as such. Instead, his status is the result
of a long historical process and popular consensus.
In 1995, a National Heroes Committee was formed to recommend historical figures for
recognition. Rizal was at the top of the list. His recognition stems from his role as the “First
Filipino”—the first to conceive of the Philippines as a single, united nation rather than a
collection of islands.
Important Values Learned from Rizal
The life of Rizal offers a blueprint for personal and national development. Some of the most
important values we can learn from him include:
1. Love for Country (Patriotism): Rizal’s every action was guided by his desire to see his
country free and prosperous.
2. Commitment to Education: He believed that “without education and liberty, which are the
soil and the sun of man, no reform is possible.”
3. Integrity and Honor: Even when faced with death, Rizal refused to compromise his
principles.
4. Self-Sacrifice: He was willing to give up his comfortable life in Europe and eventually his life
in Manila for the sake of the Filipino people.
Rizal’s Legacy in Modern Society
Rizal’s legacy continues to shape the Philippines today. His name is found on the currency, in
the names of provinces and cities, and in the monuments that stand in almost every town plaza.
Modern Relevance: In the age of information, Rizal’s emphasis on critical thinking is more
relevant than ever. He challenged Filipinos to look at their society objectively and to demand
better from their leaders. His advocacy for peaceful reform through democratic processes
remains a cornerstone of Filipino political thought.
Conclusion
In conclusion, remembering Rizal is not just an act of looking back at history; it is an act of
looking forward to the future of the Philippines. By studying his life and works, we are reminded
of the high price paid for our freedom and the ongoing responsibility we have to protect it.
Summary Points:
Rizal was a polymath who used his intellect to fight for reform.
His death was the catalyst for the Philippine Revolution.
His novels, Noli and Fili, remain the most important works of Filipino literature.
He embodies the values of patriotism, education, and integrity.
Dr. José Rizal remains the ultimate symbol of the Filipino spirit—a spirit that is resilient, brilliant,
and forever yearning for liberty.