Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel

Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1
Course Code: GEC09
Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 5
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On the Life of Our National Hero

Learning Outcomes: 1. Analyze Rizal’s family and childhood experiences.

2. Appraise Rizal’s relationship with his family

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:
The life of Dr. Jose Rizal, greatest genius of the Philippines, is an inspiration to all
peoples, particularly our young students. It is a useful life, dedicated to the glory of God,
the welfare of the country, and the freedom of our oppressed people.

On Rizal’s Family
Who were the Ancestors of Rizal?

Father’s Side Mother’s Side

Domingo Lamco – Ines Dela Rosa Eugenio Ursua – Benigna
Chinese immigrant-Chinese half Breed Japanese Anscestry
Fukien, China
1731 – Mercado Regina – Manuel de Quintos Fil-
Chinese Lawyer from Pangasinan
Francisco Mercado – Cirila Bernacha Brigida Lorenzo- Alberto Alonzo
 Resided in Biñan Prominent Spanish and Filipino from
Biñan
Juan Mercado – Cirila Alejandro
Elected Gobernadorcillo of Biñan
13th child 2nd child
Francisco Mercado Teodora
Youngest
Dr. Jose Rizal Mercado

Who were the parents of Rizal?

Francisco Mercado Rizal, father of Rizal, was a prosperous

farmer of Calamba. He was born in Biñan, Laguna, on May 11,
1818. He died in Manila on January 5, 1898, at the age of 80. In
early manhood, he moved to Calamba and engaged in farming.

Teodora Alonso Realonda, Rizal’s mother, was an

intelligent woman with great business ability. She was born in Manila on November 8,
1826. She died in Manila on August 16, 1911, at the age of 85. She was a graduate of
Sta. Rosa College, Manila.
Who were the siblings of Rizal?
 Saturnina (1850-1913). The eldest of the Rizal children.
Married Manuel Timoteo Hidalgo of Tanauan, Batangas.

Narcisa (1852-1939). The third child. She married Antonio

Lopez of Morong, Rizal, a teacher and musician.

Paciano (1851- 1930). The only brother of Jose Rizal and the second child. He
studied at San Jose College in Manila. He became a farmer and later a general of the
Philippine Revolution.

Olimpia ( 1855-1887). The fourth child. She married Silvestre Ubaldo. She died in
1887 from childbirth.
 Lucia (1857 -1919) . The fifth child. She married Mariano
Herbosa.

Jose Rizal (1861-1896). The second son and the seventh

child. He was executed by the Spaniards on December 30,
1896.

Maria (1859-1945). The sixth child. She married Daniel Faustino Cruz of Biñan,
Laguna.
 Concepcion (1862-1865). She died at the age of three.

Trinidad (1868- 1951). The tenth child. She died a spinster.

She was the last of the family to die.

Josefa (1865-1945). The ninth child. An epileptic, who died a

spinster.

Soledad (1870-1929). The youngest child. She married

Pantaleon Quintero.

When was Rizal born and what was the complete name that appeared in his
birth certificate?
 Jose Rizal was born on Wednesday, June 19, 1861 between twelve o’clock at
midnight, a few days before the full moon at Calamba, Laguna. The official name
registered in his birth certificate was – Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo.

When was Rizal baptized and who officiated the baptism?

Rizal was baptized, when he was only three years old, at a Catholic church in
Calamba, Laguna on June 22, by a priest named Rev. Rufino Collantes. His godfather
was Father Pedro Cansañas, a Catholic priest and friend of the family.

Why did Teodora Alonso make a vow to go on pilgrimage to Antipolo when

she gave birth to Rizal?

Teodora believed that the birth of Rizal would have cost her life had she not vowed
to the virgin of Antipolo that she would take him on a pilgrimage to her shrine.

Why did Doña Teodora choose Jose as Rizal’s first name?

The name Jose was chosen by his mother who was a devotee of Saint Joseph (San
Jose) - The father of Jesus Christ. Jose’s mother almost died while giving birth to him
because of his big head. Jose’s head was really bigger than that of a normal baby.

What does the name Rizal mean?

The original surname of Rizal’s family was Mercado. It was adopted in 1731by
Domingo Lamco, Rizal’s great, great, grandfather.

In 1849 Governor Claveria’s decree arrived in Calamba. It ordered all Filipino

families to adopt new family names from a list of Spanish surnames. Francisco Mercado
(Rizal’s father) looked at the list and did not like any of the Spanish surnames. So, he
adopted a new family name of his own choice. It was Rizal, which means, “green field”.
He considered it an appropriate surname for his family because he was a farmer. Thus
Francisco Mercado became Francisco Mercado Rizal.

What was the first sorrow of Rizal? How old was he at that time?
 Rizal’s first sorrow was caused by the death of his younger sister, Concepcion, in
1865. She was then only three years old and Rizal was four years old. “For the first
time,” Rizal wrote many years later, “I wept tears of love and grief.”

Why did Teodora Alonzo scold Rizal one night while she was teaching him to
read from the book Amigos del Niños and what story in this book awakened
Rizal’s interest?

Doña Teodora was reading the story of “The Moth and the Flame” in a book El
Amigo de los Niños. Young Jose was not listening to his mother, because he was
attracted by two moths flying around the flame of the coconut oil lamp.

The young moth, disobeying its mother’s advice, flew too near the flame and got
killed. So deeply attracted was Rizal by the death of the brave little moth that he did not
notice when his mother ended the reading of the story.

How did Rizal justify the death of the young moth?

Rizal’s attention was on the light of the oil lamp and on the dead little moth. The light
that caused the little moth’s death appeared to him “more beautiful” than ever. He
justified the tragic fate of the little moth. He believed that “it is worthy for a man to
sacrifice his life for a noble cause.”

Why was Rizal’s mother imprisoned?

When Rizal was ten years old, tragedy struck his family. At the time, an uncle of his,
Don Jose Alberto, returned from Europe. He found that during his absence, his wife had
left his home and abandoned their children to live with another man. Angered by her
infidelity, he planned to divorce her. To prevent a family scandal, Doña Teodora
persuaded her brother to forgive his erring wife. The family problem was settled
amicably, and Don Jose lived again with his wife. However, his unfaithful wife connived
with the lieutenant of the Guardia Civil to fabricate evidence that her husband attempted
to poison her, and Doña Teodora was accused of having aided her brother.

What was the injustice done to Rizal’s mother?

Ordinarily, Doña Teodora should have been imprisoned in the Calamba jail.
However, for no valid reason, the judge ordered that Doña Teodora be sent immediately
to the provincial jail in Sta. Cruz, Laguna. Doña Teodora was forced to walk on her bare
feet under the scorching heat of the sun, from Calamba to Santa Cruz.
 The constitutional right of the accused in this particular case, to have speedy,
impartial and public trial was not observed; thus, she suffered in prison for two and a
half years.

How was his mother finally acquitted?

For two and a half years, Doña Teodora languished in jail, constantly crying and
longing for justice to prevail. How she was released can be surmised in this brief
account cited by Craig: “In one of his travels throughout the country, the
governorgeneral happened to be a guest of the Rizal family. The task of entertaining
him was given to Soledad, the youngest of the Rizal’s who danced beautifully. Pleased
by the little girl’s dancing, he asked her what favor she wanted him to do for her, and
presto, she requested that her mother be released from prison.”

Review Questions:
1. Who were the parents of Rizal?
2. Discuss Rizal’s ancestors.
3. List down the siblings of Rizal.
4. When was Rizal born and what was his complete name?
5. When was Rizal baptized and who officiated the baptism?
[Link] does the name Rizal mean?
 Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel
Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1
Course Code: GEC09
Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 6
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On Rizal’s Education

Learning Outcomes: 1. Analyze Rizal’s early education

2. Explain how did Rizal got his achievements in school

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:

Who was Rizal’s first teacher?

The first teacher of Rizal was his mother. From her, he learned the alphabet and the
prayers when he was only three years old. This shows that he was a very intelligent
boy.

As a teacher, Doña Teodora was affectionate and patient, but strict. When she
found out that her son had a talent for poetry, she encouraged him to write poems.
Although Jose was a good child, she whipped him whenever he misbehaved.
 Where did Rizal take his first formal schooling?

After learning the alphabet and the prayers from his mother. Rizal was given further
instructions by private teachers in Calamba. Later his father decided to send him to the
private school of Maestro Justiniano Aquino Cruz in Biñan. He was then nine years old.

Rizal improved his knowledge of Spanish and Latin. Rizal also took up lessons in
drawing and painting from an old painter named Juancho.

Don Francisco, wanted Rizal to study at Letran, but why did he change his
mind and send Jose to Ateneo?

The Jesuits opened the Ateneo to everyone without any racial or financial
discrimination. Ateneo was, probably, more advanced from that of other colleges in that
period. However, screening of applicants was strictly observed.
What were the reasons why the Ateneo administrator refused to enroll Rizal?

Father Magin Fernando, the school administrator, at first, refused to admit Rizal
because he was frail and too small for his age and because he was late for enrolment.
However, with the help of Dr. Manuel Xeres Burgos (nephew of Father Burgos), Rizal
was finally allowed to enroll.

What were Rizal’s achievements in school during his study at Ateneo?

Rizal studied at the Ateneo for five years. He was the brightest and most talented
student in college. He won seven gold medals for excellence in academic studies. Aside
from excelling in his academic studies, he took up painting under Don Agustin Saez,
prominent Spanish painter and professor of art, and sculpture under Romualdo De
Jesus, famous Filipino sculptor.

On March 23, 1877, Rizal graduated from the Ateneo with highest honors. He
obtained the degree of Bachelor of Arts (A.B.) with excellent grades in all subjects.

Why was Rizal’s mother not in favor of Rizal’s further studies after he
graduated from the Ateneo?

Doña Teodora was not in favor of Rizal’s further studies in a university. She believed
that if her son would become too wise, he would lose his life. She remembered what
happened to many educated Filipinos who had been persecuted or executed by the
Spanish authorities, such as Father Burgos, Father Gomez, Father Zamora, Dr. Antonio
Ma. Regidor, and others.

Why did Rizal study medicine at the University of Sto. Tomas?

Rizal, at the age of 16, enrolled at the University of Sto. Tomas in, June 1877. He
took up the course in Philosophy and Letters because his father wanted him to be a
philosopher.

The following year, Rizal changed his course to medicine. He wanted to take up
medicine because he liked to become a physician so that he could cure his mother’s
failing eyesight and because the Father Rector of Ateneo advised him to take up this
course.

Why did Rizal not excel in his studies at Sto. Tomas as he did at the Ateneo?

Rizal was unhappy at the University of Sto. Tomas. He did not like the Dominican
methods of instructions. He particularly objected to the racial prejudice of the Spanish
professors against the brown Filipino students.

After finishing the 4th year of the medical course, Rizal could no longer endure the
Dominican instructions. He decided to quit his studies at the University of Santo Tomas.
He secretly planned to continue his medical studies in Europe.

In what school did Rizal continue his medical and other courses in Spain?

In 1882, Rizal left Barcelona and went to Madrid. He enrolled in the famous Central
University of Madrid. He took up two courses’ Medicine and Philosophy and Letters. In
addition to these university courses, he studied painting and sculpture at the Academy
of Fine Arts of San Fernando and foreign languages (French, German, and English)
under private teachers.

Why was Rizal not given his degree of Licentiate after finishing his medical
course?

Rizal finished the two courses in June 1884; he was not given his degree of
Licentiate because he did not have money to pay for the diploma and the degree. But
on June 19, 1885, his 24 th birthday, he received his degree of Licentiate in Philosophy
and Letters.

By this degree, he became qualified to be a professor of Philosophy and Literature.

Review Questions:
1. Who was Rizal’s first teacher?
2. Where did Rizal take his formal schooling?
3. What were Rizal’s achievement in school?
4. Why was Rizal’s mother not in favor of Rizal’s further studies abroad?
5. Why did Rizal study medicine at UST?
6. Explain why did Rizal did not excel in his studies at UST?
7. Discuss why Rizal was not given his degree of Licentiate after finishing his
medical course.
 Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel
Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1
Course Code: GEC09
Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 7
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On Rizal’s Travel

Learning Outcomes: 1. Appreciate the countries Rizal traveled.

2.

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:

Why did Rizal travel to Spain?

After finishing fourth year of his medical course at the University of Sto Tomas, he
decided to go to Spain. He could no longer endure the rampant bigotry, discrimination,
and hostility against the Filipinos. His primary reason in going abroad was to observe
keenly the life of other European nations in order to prepare himself in the mighty task
of liberating his oppressed people.

Why was Rizal’s departure for Spain kept with outmost secrecy?

Rizal left Manila on May 3, 1882 on board the Spanish steamer, Salvadora. Only
Paciano, his Jesuit teachers at the Ateneo, and few friends knew of his departure. He
was very sad as his ship began the voyage because he was not able to say goodbye to
his beloved parents.
 Rizal was almost twenty-one years old on the day he left. He was however thrilled
for it was his first trip abroad. Tears welled from his eyes as the ship sailed away from
Manila, he wrote in his diary: “My country, my love, my people, I leave you now, You
disappear. I lose sight of you.”

How did Rizal describe Barcelona as a city in Spain?

Barcelona is the second largest city in Spain. His impression of the city was quite a
place where freedom and liberalism were enjoyed by its people. From the many
Filipinos whom he met there, some were old friends in Manila, he learned more about
Spain and its freedom-loving people who openly criticized their own corrupt officials and
openly showed dislike for oppression.

It was also during his stay in Barcelona when he wrote the nationalistic articles
“Love of Country” (Amor Patria) and “Travels” (Los Viajes), which were specially written
for the Diaryong Tagalog of Manila, under the penname Laong-Laan.

What were the reasons why Rizal joined the masonry?

In Spain, Rizal was exposed to liberal ideas and cultural influences postulating the
maximum individual freedom of action, especially on matters of personal belief and
expression. Being young and idealistic, he was really impressed by the way Spanish
masons spoke on progressive ideas and values befitting a free man.

It is believed that he joined Masonry for two reasons:

1. the abuse committed by friars against the Filipino people; and
2. the possible help the Masons could extend as a protective shield to use in his
fight against evil forces of the tyranny and exploitation.

Why did Rizal go to Madrid?

In 1882, Rizal left Barcelona and went to Madrid in order to continue his medical
studies. He enrolled in the famous Central University of Madrid. He took up two
courses- in Medicine and in Philosophy and Letters. Other activities included taking
lessons in painting and sculpture at the Academy of San Fernando, hearing lectures
sponsored by the University, attending classes in French and German language. He
attended operas and concerts to enhance knowledge and taste of fine music, visited art
galleries and museums and read a variety of books to broaden his cultural background
and perspective.
 Why did Rizal go to Paris and Germany?

It was Rizal’s ambition to be an ophthalmologist so that he might cure his mother’s

failing eyesight. An ophthalmologist is a physician who specializes in eye diseases. At
the time of Rizal, the famous ophthalmologists were practicing in France and Germany.
Thus, Rizal decided to go to these countries for ophthalmic training.

In Paris, he studied ophthalmology under Dr. Louis de Weckert, distinguished

Parisian ophthalmologist of German ancestry. To gain more knowledge of
ophthalmology, he visited the eye clinic of Dr. Xavier Galezowsky, a renowned Parisian
ophthalmologist of Polish ancestry.

On February 1886, Rizal went to Heidelberg, a famous university town in Germany

in search of further training in ophthalmology. He worked at the university Eye Clinic
under Dr. Otto Becker, noted German ophthalmologist. He also attended Dr. Becker’s
lectures at the university. He won many friends among the university students. These
students made him a member of their chess club because of his skill in chess.

Who was the kind German Protestant pastor who befriended Rizal near
Heidelberg? What were the things Rizal learned from him?

Rizal spent a three-month summer vacation at Wilhemsfeld Village near Heidelberg.

He stayed at the vicarage of a kind Protestant pastor, Dr. Karl Ulmer, who became his
good friend, admirer and tutor in German language. Now Wilhelmsfeld is named Noli
Village in honor of Rizal’s novel, Noli Me Tangere. He finished the last chapters of this
novel in Wilhemsfeld. Then, he returned to Heidelberg, carrying with him beautiful
memories of the Ulmer friendship and hospitality.

While in Heidelberg, how did Rizal spend his days?

While Rizal was in Heidelberg, he was very lonely and homesick. An early riser even
at his childhood, he found consolation in walking along the banks of the Neckar River,
watching the lovely flowers, which inspired him to write his beautiful poem, “To
The Flowers of Heidelberg.”

In Leipzig, whom did Rizal meet? What was the significance of the said
meeting?
 Rizal met Dr. Hans Meyer, who had been in the Philippines. Dr. Meyer, a wellknown
German anthropologist, had written a book on the Igorots of the Philippines. Rizal also
befriended Dr. Freidrich Ratzel, a famous German historian. Rizal translated
Schiller’s William Tell and Andersen’s Fairy Tales from German to Tagalog.

Who was Professor Ferdinand Blumentritt? What brought about their personal
relationship?

Rizal wrote his first letter in German to Professor Ferdinand Blumentritt, Director of
the Ateneo of Leitmeritz, Austria. With the Letter, Rizal sent the book entitled Aritmetica
(Arithmethic) and was published in two languages. Spanish and Tagalog - by the
university of Sto. Tomas Press in 1868.

Rizal’s letter impressed Blumentritt, who reciprocated by sending Rizal a gift of two
books. It marked the beginning of their long and frequent correspondence, also of their
friendship that lasted all their lives. Blumentritt, the Austrian, became the best friend of
Rizal, the Filipino.

Why did Rizal stay longer in Berlin than in any place in Germany?

Rizal was not a mere student or a curious tourist. He lived in this famous capital of
unified Germany for five reasons: (1) to gain further knowledge of ophthalmology, (2) to
further his studies of sciences and languages, (3) to observe the economic and political
conditions of the German nation, (4) to associate with famous German scientists and
scholars, and (5) to publish his novel, Noli Me Tangere.

How did Rizal describe German women?

One of his important letters written while he was in Germany was that addressed to
his sister, Trinidad, dated March 11, 1886. In this letter, Rizal expressed his high regard
and admiration for German womanhood.

The German woman, said Rizal to his sister, is serious, diligent, educated and
friendly. She is not gossipy, frivolous, and quarrelsome like the Spanish woman. She is
not particular about beautiful dresses and expensive jewelry, though she could dress
nicely like any other woman in the world.

Rizal regretted that in the Philippines, the women are more interested in how they
dress than in how much they know.
 Who was the man who became the savior of the Noli Me Tangere by helping
Rizal publish the novel?

In the midst of his despondency and misery, Rizal received a telegram from Dr.
Maximo Viola who was coming to Berlin. When he arrived in Berlin shortly before
Christmas Day of 1887, he was shocked to find Rizal living in poverty and deplorably
sickly due to lack of proper nourishment.
Upon seeing his talented friend’s predicament, Viola, being loaded with ample
funds, gladly agreed to finance the printing cost of the Noli. He also loaned Rizal some
cash money for living expenses.

Why did Rizal go back to the Philippines after his first travel in Europe?

After the publication of Noli Me Tangere, Rizal was determined to return to the
Philippines for the following reasons: (1) to operate on his mother’s eyes; (2) to serve
his people who had long been oppressed by Spanish tyrants; (3) to find out for himself
how the Noli and his other writings were affecting Filipinos and Spaniards in the
Philippines; and (4) to inquire why Leonor Rivera remained silent.

Thus, after five years of memorable sojourn in Europe, he returned to the

Philippines in August 1887.

While at the Vatican, what did Rizal witness among the faithful Catholics that
deeply touched him?

In one of his delightful days in this historic and beautiful city, he witnessed the
faithful Catholics jam St. Peter’s square at the Vatican City to receive the blessings of
the Supreme Pontiff. He was deeply touched by the outpouring manifestation of faith by
the Catholics on the Supreme Pontiff.

He was also deeply impressed by the magnificent edifices, particularly of St. Peter’s
Church, the rare works of art, the vast St. Peter’s Square, the colorful Papal Guards and
the atmosphere of religious devotion that pervaded the Vatican.

Why did the Spanish governor-general advise Rizal to leave Calamba in 1888?

Rizal could not stay long in Calamba. His enemies, particularly the friars, hated him
because of his novel, Noli Me Tangere. This novel exposed the evil deeds of some bad
friars. Naturally, the Spanish friars denounced it as anti-Spanish and anti-Christian. His
life was in danger. Governor-General Emilio Terrero advised him to leave the
Philippines. Rizal heeded his advice, for his family and friends also urged him to go
away.

How did Rizal describe Hongkong in his diary?

Rizal wrote down in his own diary the following observations:

1. Noisy celebration of the Chinese New Year, which lasted from February 11th
(Saturday) to 13th (Monday). Continuous explosions of firecrackers. The richer
the Chinese, the more firecrackers he exploded. Rizal himself fired many
firecrackers at the window of his hotel.
2. Boisterous Chinese theatre, with noisy audience and noisier music. In the
Chinese dramatic art, Rizal observed the following:
a. A man astride a stick means a man riding on horseback,
b. An actor raising his leg means he is entering a house,
c. A red dress indicates a wedding,
d. A girl about to be married coyly covers her face with a fan even in the
presence of her fiancé, and
e. A man raising a whip signifies he is about to ride a horse.
3. The marathon lauriat party, wherein the guests were served numerous dishes,
such as dried fruits, geese, shrimps, century eggs, shark fins, bird nests, white
ducks, chicken with vinegar, fish heads, roasted pigs, tea etc. The longest meal
in the world.
4. The Dominican order was the richest religious order in Hongkong. It engaged
actively in business. It owned more than 700 houses for rent and many shares in
foreign banks. It had millions of dollars deposited in the banks, which earned
fabulous interest.
5. At the Hongkong cemeteries belonging to the Protestants, Catholics, and
Muslims, that of the Protestants was the most beautiful because of its
wellgroomed plants and clean pathway. The Catholic cemetery was most
pompous, with its ornate and expensive mausoleums and extravagantly carved
sepulchers. The Muslim cemetery was the simplest, containing only a little
mosque and tombstones with Arabic inscriptions.

What were the things that favorably impressed Rizal about Japan?

The things that favorably impressed Rizal in Japan were:

 1. The beauty of the country - its flowers, mountains, streams, and scenic
panoramas.
2. The cleanliness, politeness, and industriousness of the Japanese people.
3. The picturesque dress and simple charm of the Japanese women.
4. There were very few thieves in Japan so that the house remained open day and
night, and in the hotel room one could safely leave money on the table.
5. Beggars were rarely seen in the city streets, unlike in Manila and other cities.

Why did Rizal say that there was no true civil liberty in the United States of
America?

Rizal had good and bad impressions of the United States. The good impressions
were:

1. The material progress of the country as shown in the great cities, huge farms,
flourishing industries, and busy factories;
2. The drive and energy of the American people;
3. The natural beauty of the land;
4. The high standard of living; and
5. The opportunities for better life offered to poor immigrants.

One bad impression Rizal had of America was the lack of racial equality. There
existed racial prejudice, which was inconsistent with the Principles of Democracy and
Freedom of which the Americans talk so much but do not practice. Thus he wrote to
Ponce: “They do not have true civil liberty. In some states the Negro cannot marry a
white woman, or a white man a Negress.” Thus America, said Rizal, “is the land par
excellence of freedom but only for the whites. However, America offers a place for the
poor man who is willing to work.”

What were the primary reasons why Rizal left for London?

Rizal chose England to be his new home for three reasons:

1. To improve his knowledge of the English language.

2. To study and annotate Morga’s “Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas.”
3. London was a safe place for him to carry on his fight against Spanish tyranny.

Why was Rizal interested in Morga’s Book?

Rizal spent many months copying the book, “Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas” by
Antonio de Morga. Morga, who was once a Governor- General in the Philippines, had
written about the life and customs of the Filipinos. But it contained some errors. Rizal
wanted to publish this book of Morga again, with his annotations.

“I am now busy with Morga,” wrote Rizal. “I will copy the whole book and have a new
one. Published for the Filipinos. I am doing this only for my country because the work
will bring me neither honor nor money.”

While patiently copying for many months, Rizal at the same time corrected errors
Morga had made.

While in London, why did Rizal say that his happy days were over?

The government in the Philippines wanted to punish him, but they could not reach
him. So, they punished his relatives. One way of punishing them was to make their life
hard. The lands of some of Rizal’s brothers-in-law were taken away from them.

Rizal found out that, because he was trying to help his countrymen, his parents and
relatives were made to suffer. “My happy days,” said Rizal “were over when I read the
news that Hidalgo was exiled to Bohol. I am giving trouble to my family.” Rizal became
even more eager to work hard to help his unhappy people.

While he was in London, How did Rizal spend his spare time?

Rizal spent his spare time wisely while he was living in London. After reading and
studying in the British Museum, he would go to the house of Antonio Ma. Regidor and
tell him the new things he had learned about the Philippines.

Sometimes Rizal would have interesting conversations with Dr. Rost who was a
wise man, a librarian and a writer.

Rizal also spent his spare time carving and painting. He carved Prometheus Bound,
The Triumph of Death over Life, The Triumph of Science over Death, and the heads of
the daughter of Charles Beckett.

After annotating Morga’s “Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas”, what articles were
written by Rizal in London?

Rizal wrote articles for La Solidaridad. He wrote “Los Agricultores Filipinos” (The
Filipino Farmers). In this initial article, he depicted the deplorable conditions in the
Philippines, which cause the backwardness of the country.
 He further wrote “La Vision de Fray Rodriguez” (The Visions of Fray Rodriguez)
which was published in Barcelona under his non-de plume Dimasalang, where Rizal
demonstrated his profound knowledge of religion and his mastery of style in Satire.

He also wrote the “Letter to the Young Women of Malolos.” This was written through
the request of Marcelo H. del Pilar to praise the young women of Malolos for their
courage and determined effort to establish a school where they could learn Spanish.

What were the important points in Rizal’s Letter to the women of Malolos?

The Letter to the Women of Malolos is an important letter dealing with love of our
honor, our country, and God. Here are some of the good ideas it contains:

A good mother has the duty to make her children good citizens. She must teach her
children to be honest, to love their fellow men and to respect God. “Open your children’s
eyes so that they may be careful of their honor, love their neighbors, and do their duty to
their country. Tell them that it is better to die with honor than live without honor.”

The Filipino woman must learn how to be a good woman and a good mother. She
should know how to preserve her dignity and honor. She must learn to follow reason so
that her conduct may be good. She must love her children. If her country calls her
children to fight for it, she must let them die for their country.

Faith is not merely reciting long prayers and wearing religious pictures, but rather
that it is living the real Christian way, with good morals and good manners.

“It is our dream,” said Rizal, “to help the Filipino woman regain her good
characteristics. We want to give her back her honor; She is half of our heart and our
companion in our happiness and sadness. Let our young women be the pride of our
country.”

Why did Rizal go to Paris?

Rizal went to Paris to publish his annotated edition of Morga’s “Sucesos de las Islas
Filipinas.” He wanted the Filipinos and the foreigners to read this book so that they may
know that the Filipino people were already civilized before the arrival of the Spaniards.

In this historical work, Rizal proved that the Filipinos were already civilized before
the advent of Spain. They had clothes, government, laws, writings, literature, religion,
arts, sciences and commerce with neighboring Asian nations. Rizal thus blasted the
historical heresies of the Spanish writers who claimed that the early Filipinos were
savages and were of low mentality.
 What societies did Rizal organize in Paris and what were their objectives?

Rizal organized societies of Filipinos who were in Paris at that time. One was the
kidlat club while the others were the Indios Bravos and R.D.L.M. The Kidlat Club was
founded simply to bring together young Filipinos in the French Capital in order that they
could enjoy their stay in the city during the international exposition. The Indios Bravos
taught its members to be proud of being Filipinos and with intense desire pledged to
their best to excel in intellectual and physical capability to catch the attention of the
Spaniards and win their admiration and respect.

On the other hand, the aim of the secret society, R.D.L.M., was the propagation of
all useful knowledge - scientific, artistic, and literary in the Philippines. Evidently, there
was another aim that was the redemption of the Malay race.

Why did Rizal write articles for La Solidaridad?

Rizal wrote articles for La Solidaridad because he wanted Spain to know the truth
about what was taking place in the Philippines. He helped the Filipinos in Spain in
working for the welfare of their people.

“Enslaved people,” wrote Rizal, must suffer much to gain freedom. The fight is on.
One who loses courage shall die. Let us show the world and our enemies that we are
not afraid of the friars and their tricks”.

Why was Rizal not afraid to fight the friars?

“I showed in the book all the wrong things done by the friars,” said Rizal. “This made
them angry. So they said I attacked the church and that my book is not good. God
should not be used to excuse wrong behavior. In the name of religion, some people try
to be rich, destroy an enemy, or make others unhappy.” “Are you not afraid of the
friars?” asked Dr. Tavera.

“Why should I not fight the friars if they use religion to cover their misdeeds?”
answered Rizal. “Why should I not fight them if they make us suffer and weep? Christ
did the same thing when he punished those who made bad use of religion.”

What other articles were written by Rizal in Brussels to expose the injustices
done by the Spaniards in the Philippines?

After reading and listening to all the news about injustices done in the Philippines,
Rizal wrote the articles to defend the Filipino people.
 In the article, “La Verdad para todos” (The truth for all), Rizal asked the government
to give freedom to the Filipinos. In “Verdades Nuevas” (New Truths), Rizal asked Spain
not to be afraid to make changes to help the Filipinos lead happy lives. In “Una
Profanacion” (A Profanation), Rizal said that the friars did not have good reasons to
prevent his brother-in-law from being buried in the Catholic cemetery. In “Filipinas
Dentro de Cien Años” (The Philippines a century Hence), he asked Spain to improve
the life of the Filipinos. If she would not do this, the country would wage war and would
come under the rule of the United States. Rizal wrote in “Sobre la Indolencia delos
Filipinos” (The Indolence of the Filipinos) that Filipinos are not lazy. In “Sin Nombre”
(Without Name), Rizal wrote that the people of Calamba prepared a report so that the
government might know the truth. In “Filipinas en el Congreso” (The Philippines in
Congress), Rizal asked Spain to give the Filipinos freedom to write.

Why did Rizal write an article explaining why the Filipinos were not lazy?

Many Spaniards said that the Filipinos were lazy. Rizal wrote an excellent article in
La Solidaridad, which told why laziness had become common in the Philippines

Rizal agreed that there was a good deal of laziness among the Filipinos, but he
explained that they were not born lazy. The hot climate in the Philippines does not
permit people to work very hard or very fast. The people need tranquility and rest in the
hot part of the day so that they may live longer.

According to Rizal, when did laziness become a habit among the Filipinos?

When the Spaniards came, laziness became a habit among the Filipinos. First, there
were many wars in which Filipinos were killed. People did not want to work hard
because they did not feel safe. Wars carried on by Spain also brought about the death
of many people. Second, the government did not help the people. Third, gambling was
increased because the Spaniards introduced games of chance. Fourth, the Filipinos did
not have good training at home or any education. Fifth, the people were not paid when
they worked for the government. Sixth, the people paid heavy taxes. They did not work
hard because they knew the government would ask them to pay more in taxes than
what they could earn

Why did Rizal go to Brussels?

After living in Paris for nine months, Rizal went to Brussels, Belgium. He wanted to
save money and finish writing El Filibusterismo, which he had begun in Calamba in
1887. Rizal worked in a clinic to earn money. He spent most of his spare time reading,
writing, and visiting interesting places.

Why did Rizal want the Filipinos to be patriotic?

 One day he received a letter from Juan Luna and Valentin Ventura. They told him
that the Filipinos in Madrid spent most of their time gambling. Valentin Ventura asked
Rizal to write to the Filipinos.

Rizal was sad when he read this letter. He wrote a letter to Marcelo H. del Pilar
telling why it was not good to spend one’s time in gambling.

“The Filipinos did not come to Europe,” wrote Rizal, “to gamble and enjoy
themselves but to work for the liberty and the honor of our country. It is not necessary to
leave the Philippines to gamble, for there the people already gamble very much. If our
country needs us to do something for her and then we spend our time in a bad way, we
are only making it harder for our country to gain its freedom.”

“Ask the Filipinos to show their patriotism. Let them show Spain that we can rise
above our country much greater than our desire to gamble."

What were the reasons why Rizal left Brussels and lived in Ghent?

On July 5, 1891, Rizal moved to Ghent, another city in Belgium. He left Ghent
because it was cheaper to print his second novel, El Filibusterismo which he had
finished and because he wanted to run away from Suzanne Jacoby, who was in love
with him.

What did Rizal mean when he said “I have done my duty?”

Rizal wrote in his letters to Blumentritt that he was not afraid to die. “I have to return
to the Philippines. Life here is hard for me. I must set an example and show that I am
not afraid to die. I want to go home so that I will not hear anything against me. If I die,
you will remain a friend to my country.”

When Rizal was in Paris on his way to the Philippines, he said to Blumentritt in his
letter: “I will work well and peacefully. I will use all my efforts for my country. What they
may say about me is not important. I have done my duty. I envy nobody. I trust in God
and in the future of my country.”

How did Rizal live in Hongkong?

To earn a living for himself and for his family, Rizal practiced medicine. He opened a
medical clinic and became successful as a physician. He won new friends in Hongkong,
including a Portuguese physician, Dr. Lorenzo P. Marques who admired Rizal’s skill as
an eye specialist.
 Rizal wrote the Constitution and By-Laws of “La Liga Filipina” (the Philippine
League) an association of Filipinos for civic and social activities. Other works included
the writings, “The Rights of Man” (Ang Karapatan Ng Mga Tao), which appealed to the
Spanish authorities to rectify the injustices done by the Dominicans.

Why did Rizal’s Family join him in Hongkong?

Before Christmas of 1891, Rizal’s parents, brothers, sisters, and brother-in-law

arrived in Hongkong. They had lost their homes and lands in Calamba. They came to
live with Rizal. Doña Teodora, who was then 65 years old, was blind. Rizal successfully
operated on one of her eyes, so that she was able to see again.

Why did Rizal return to Manila from Hongkong?

After pondering about the possible consequences of his action of returning to Manila
on May, 1892, Rizal made up his mind. His sudden decision to return was caused by his
immediate desire to see the Governor-General Despujol regarding his project in Borneo,
to establish the La Liga Filipina in Manila, and to protest Eduardo de Lete’s article
published in La Solidaridad on April 15, 1892, portraying him as a coward and
opportunistic for being comfortable and safe in Hongkong, while abandoning his
country’s cause.

Why did Rizal form the La Liga? What were the aims of this society?

On the night of July 3, 1892, he met Filipino patriots in the house of Doroteo
Ongjuco in Tondo. They formed the La Liga Filipina, a society to work for the happiness
of the Filipinos. Its aims were:

1. To unite the Filipinos

2. To help each other in time of need
3. To protect themselves from injustice;
4. To promote education, agriculture, and commerce, and
5. To work for reforms.

Review Questions:
1. Discuss Rizal’s travel in Spain, Paris and Germany.
2. Who was Professor Ferdinand Blumentritt?
3. Explain who was the man who became the savior of NolI Me Tangere.
4. Why did Rizal go back to the Philippines after his travel in Europe?
5. How did Rizal describe Hong Kong, Japan, United States, and London?
6. Explain the reasons why did Rizal go to Brussels and Ghent?
7. Discuss how did Rizal live in Hong Kong.
 Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel
Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1
Course Code: GEC09
Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 8
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On Rizal’s Exile

Learning Outcomes: [Link] why was Rizal exiled in Dapitan.

2. Appreciate Rizal’s life in Dapitan
3. Analyze what valuable information Rizal wanted for the
country

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:

Why was Rizal exiled to Dapitan?

On July 7, 1892, Rizal was arrested by orders of Governor-General Despujol. He

was deported to Dapitan, an isolated town in Mindanao. Governor Despujol’s reasons
for deporting him were:

1. Rizal wrote books and articles which were against Spain and the Catholic
Religion;
2. A bundle of leaflets entitled Pobres Frailes were discovered in Lucia’s pillow
case; and
 3. Rizal dedicated his El Filibusterismo to Fathers Gomez, Burgos, and Zamora,
who were “traitors” to Spain.

Who was the military Commandant who received Rizal in Dapitan? How did he
treat Rizal?

Rizal was handed over to Captain Ricardo Carnicero, a Spanish military

commandant of Dapitan.

Carnicero was charmed by Rizal’s fine qualities and personality. They ate together
at the same table and lead many friendly conversations. Carnicero came to know that
Rizal was not a common felon, much less a filibustero. He gave him a complete
freedom to go anywhere, reporting only once a week at his office.

How did Rizal describe his life in Dapitan?

Rizal lived a useful and peaceful life. He practiced medicine and cured many people.
He acquired many lands and became a farmer. He engaged in fishing, copra, and hemp
industries. He constructed a water system for Dapitan. He gave the town its first public
lighting system, using coconut oil lamps. He improved the town plaza and adorned it
with a huge relief map of Mindanao. He founded a school for boys. He collected
specimens of plants and animals and sent them to the scientists and museums in
Europe. He wrote poems, drew pictures, and made woodcarvings. He also wrote a
Tagalog grammar and studied other languages, including Bisayan, Chavacano, and
Subanun.

What valuable information did Carnicero like to draw from Rizal about what
Rizal wanted for his country?

The hero answered that the Philippines would be the happiest country if the
Spaniards grant the following reforms:

1. The secularization of the clergy and cessation of their control over the
government and the land
2. Reforms of the administration in all its branches
3. Promotion of primary instruction and stopping all intervention by the friars and
giving teachers better salaries
4. Control of the affairs of the country partly by Spaniards and partly by Filipinos 5.
To make the administration moral
6. Establishment of schools of arts and crafts in the capitals of provinces with over
16,000 inhabitants
7. Representation in the Spanish Cortes in order to stop the abuses committed by
some officials in the country
8. Freedom of worship
9. Freedom of the press

Review Questions:
1. Explain why was Rizal exiled in Dapitan.
2. Describe Rizal’s life in Dapitan.
3. Who was the military Commandant who received Rizal in Dapitan?
4. Describe how did the military commandant treat Rizal.
5. What valuable information did Carcinero like to draw from Rizal?
 Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel
Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1

Course Code: GEC09

Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 9
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On Rizal’s Arrest, Trials and Execution

Learning Outcomes: [Link] the factors that led to Rizal’s execution

2. Analyze the effects of Rizal’s execution

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:

With what crime was Rizal tried by the Military Court? Who was his legal
defender?

The trial of Rizal was held in Manila on December 26, 1896. He was tried by a
Spanish military court, which was presided over by Lt. Col. Jose Togores Arjona. He
was accused of rebellion and organizing illegal societies. His defense attorney was Lt.
Luis Taviel de Andrade. The government prosecuting attorney was Lt. Enrique de
Alcocer.
Was the trial conducted by the Military Tribunal fair?
 The trial of Rizal was an eloquent proof of Spanish injustice and misrule. More than
a farce, it was patently a mistrial. Rizal, a civilian, was tried by a military court composed
of foreign military officers. His case was prejudged; he was considered guilty before the
actual trial. The military court met not to give him justice, but to accuse and condemn
him. It accepted all charges and testimonies against him, and ignored all arguments and
proofs in his favor. Moreover, Rizal was not given the right to face the witnesses against
him in open court.

Who was the Spanish Governor-General who affirmed the death sentence of
Rizal?

On December 28, Polavieja approved the decision of the court-martial and ordered
Rizal to be shot at 7:00 o’clock in the morning of December 30 at Bagumbayan Field
(Now Luneta Park). His decree on this matter runs as follows:

Manila, December 28, 1896:

Comformably to the foregoing opinion, I approve the sentence dictated by the

Court Martial in the present case, by virtue of which the death penalty is imposed on
the accused Jose Rizal Mercado, who shall be executed by shooting him at 7:00
o’clock in the morning of the 30th of this month in the field of Bagumbayan.

For compliance and the rest that may correspond, let this be returned to the
Judge Advocate, captain Don Rafael Dominguez.

Camilo G. de Polaviejo

To whom did Rizal give the alcohol cooking lamp?

Rizal gave to Trinidad the alcohol-cooking lamp, whispering to her in English.

“There is something inside.” Trinidad understood. She knew English because Rizal
taught her this language. This “something” was Rizal’s farewell poem.

Who was the military physician who examined Rizal before he was executed?

A Spanish military physician, Dr. Felipe Ruiz Castillo, asked his permission to feel
his pulse, which request was graciously granted. Dr. Castillo was amazed to find it
normal, showing that Rizal was not afraid to die.

When was Rizal executed at Bagongbayan?

 At the command “Fire”, the guns of the firing squad barked. Rizal, hit by bullets,
turned and fell dead on the ground, his face towards the rising sun. Thus he died
bravely at 7:03 A.M. December 30, 1896.

Review Questions:
1. Discuss what crime was Rizal tried by the military court.
2. Who was his legal defender?
3. Explain the trial conducted by the Military fair?
4. Explain how did the Spanish Governor – General affirmed the death sentence of
Rizal.
5. Describe how Rizal give the alcohol cooking lamp.
6. Describe how the military physician examined Rizal before he was executed.
7. Discuss when was Rizal executed.
 Colegio de San Gabriel Arcangel
Founded 1993
Area E, Fatima I, Sapang Palay, City of San Jose del Monte, Bulacan
Recognized by the Government: DepEd, TESDA and CHED;
PACUCOA Accredited - Level 1

Course Code: GEC09

Subject: RIZAL I
LEARNING SHEET NO. 10
Name:_____________________ Score _________________
Date: _____________________ Section: _______________

Topic: On the Women in Rizal’s Life

Learning Outcomes: 1. List the women of Rizal in his life

2. Explain why Rizal was attractive

References: Rizal and Other Philippine Heroes and Heroines

A Primer Teaching Strategies
Dionesio C. Rivas, M.A. Ed.D
Michael Molina Nael, M.A. PhD.

Discussions:

Why was Rizal attractive to women?

Dr. Baldomero Roxas, a friend and contemporary of his from Batangas, had said
that he could not explain why Rizal was attractive to women and why in many instances
they sympathized with him. He could not fathom why, since Rizal was not handsome or
tall, being only five feet four inches tall.
 The popularity of Rizal among women in many of the countries he visited was
explained by a relative to be due to his attentiveness to ladies, politeness and courtesy,
good breeding, magnetic voice and his being a good conversationalist.

More importantly, we may also ascribe it to Rizal’s artistic temperament, which did
not pass beauty unrecognized.

Who were the women in Rizal’s life?

The following were the women in Rizal’s life:

SEGUNDA KATIGBAK. She was a jewel from Batangas

and the proud possessor of charm in the truest sense of the
word. To her, it was better to have loved and lost than never to
have loved at all. It was she who kindled the first sparks of
tender passionate affection in the heart of the 16-years-old
Rizal. She was the classmate of his youngest sister and
became the excuse of the frequent visits of Rizal at the La
Concordia College. The 14year-old Segunda was said to be
witty and talkative, not a great beauty but rather charming in
her own unique way. She was always well dressed, fresh and
virginal just like the sweet-scented sampaguita in the early
morning dawn.

If Rizal at 16 was the embodiment of shyness and

repression,
Segunda seemed to have taken much of the initiative when
during those days, modesty and coyness were supposed to be
the trademark of the Filipina. According to Rizal, Segunda was his Segunda Katigbak
first love and that he fell in love with her at first sight. After a brief romance in which
only their eyes talked, the affair ended when the Lipa maiden went home to get married
to a man chosen by her parents. In his autobiography, Rizal wrote:
“Thus ended at an early hour my first love.”

LEONORA RIVERA. The “Maria

Clara” of Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere,
Leonor was Rizal’s boyhood sweetheart
for 11 years from Camiling, Tarlac. Both
were teenagers when they tasted the
nectar of love, Rizal being then 19 years
of age and Leonora, 13. What was
Leonor like? She was described as fairy-
 like, simple, lovable and charming. She was graced with a lovely
oval face, white silky skin, long wavy brownish hair, small
expressive mouth, round black eyes under long curly lashes,
moderately-shaped nose and two deep dimples on her cheeks
when she smiled. Add to these, a melodious sweet
voice when she talked, and you have Leonora Rivera in person.

Leonora was in Rizal’s tender memory whenever his artistic

fancy lightly turned to thoughts of love. Theirs was an idyllic love affair wrecked by
parental tyranny. Both Rizal’s and Leonora’s Leonora Rivera parents opposed their
relationship because they were cousins.

CONSUELO ORTIGA Y REY. The Olympian daughter of a liberal-minded Spanish

official who once served Manila during the Spanish eras. She was vivacious and
charming- one who could attract boys without flirting, one who could awaken the
dormant feelings of fanciful Romeos and one who could make a stammering lover emit
dulcet avowals of the heart. She was amiable, talented, diplomatic and never wanting in
ability to answer the challenges to her heart. It was said that she could inspire love in
those she cannot love and this charismatic damsel had cast a magic spell on the lonely
heart of Rizal who almost lost his self-control to satisfy the call of Cupid. But the hero’s
well-disciplined life, once more, prevailed over the attack of temptation. He gave up the
field to a friend who was also after her and went to Paris to forget.

O-SEI-SAN (SEIKO USUI). She was the daughter of a

Japanese nobleman who filled Rizal’s life in Japan with hope
and desire to live in the spring of life. Rizal was 27 and O-Sei-
San was 23 when they met. It was said that she was a joy to
behold, beautiful and lovely with a milky-white complexion, soft
velvety cheeks with the rose tint of the camelia, soft almond-
shaped eyes, a dignified posture graced with a queenly pose
and a shy smile. She had an oval face and glossy black hair
parted in the middle. Her eyes presented those dreamy glances
characteristic of Japanese women.

Rizal and O-Sei-San met when the rose-

colored
chrysanthemums filled the
air with perfume,
beauty and romance
and who was Rizal to
O-Sei-San (Seiko Usui)
resist the
 temptation of a melancholy desire to enjoy such
an invitation to dream awake? He almost forgot himself, but the thought of Leonor and
of his mission in life cut short this romantic episode in his life.

Rizal saw in O-Sei-San the qualities of womanhood-beauty, charm, modesty,

kindness, intelligence and sincerity. Unfortunately, theirs’ was not a
friendship destined to have a happy ending. It was sweet but short-lived, like the
scented
cherry blossoms.

GERTRUDE BECKETT. She was the blue-blooded English

woman, the oldest daughter of a London church organist in whose
house Rizal lodged when he went to London in 1888. British women
Gertrude Beckett
were attracted to such lasting qualities of a man as courtesy,
intelligence, gentlemanliness and refinement, which Rizal possessed. Gertrude or
Gettie as she was called was no English beauty and was shorter than Rizal. She had an
honest and cheerful face, pink cheeks, blue eyes and brown hair.

Her case with Rizal was quite different from the others because it was a one-way
affair. She showed signs of being very much in love with our hero. It was she who
carried Rizal’s breakfast to his room and his tea in the afternoon. Rizal’s charm and
chivalry might have been interpreted by the English lass as a proposal. It was then that
Rizal made up his mind to leave London before the symptoms of this new infatuation
grew serious, because he respected the virginal love of Gertrude.

NELLIE BOUSTED. Another Eurasian, her father was a

French businessman who was born in the Philippines while her mother was a Spanish-
Filipina belonging to the Genato family of Quiapo, Manila. This family was in Paris
where Rizal met
them. He was 30 while Nellie was 20.

Nellie was described as lovely, charming, and glamorous.

She moved with charming dignity and refinement. Her face was long and thin and her
brown hair was drawn back straight from the forehead. Her clean white face and
engaging aspect
lent a magnetic air to her personality.
 When in
1891 Rizal learned
that his childhood sweetheart, Leonor Rivera,
had married an
Nellie Bousted English engineer, he felt disconsolate and
left
Madrid for Paris. There he proposed to
Nellie who also liked him, but being a Protestant, she imposed
the condition that she would marry Rizal if he would become a
Protestant too. The idea of the use of force was repulsive to Rizal
and the proposal did not materialize. Besides, Nellie’s mother
was opposed to the idea for the reason that Rizal was carefree
and had no fixed source of income. The two parted as friends
and Nellie’s parting words to Rizal were: “May the good Lord look
with favor on you wherever you may go, and shower you with
blessings that you may learn to appreciate my thoughts… may
my prayers go with you!”

JOSEPHINE BRACKEN. Rizal met Josephine in Dapitan in

Josephine Bracken
1895. She was 19 years of age, 5 feet and 1 inch in height, beauteous,
with laughing blue eyes, curly blonde hair, a beautiful nose, a round face and a regal
bearing. She was not highly educated but was said to be very intelligent. She was a
Eurasian with an Irish father and a Chinese mother.

When George Taufer, Josephine’s adopted American father, needed treatment for
his deteriorating eyesight, he was advised to seek Rizal’s expert knowledge in
ophthalmology. So she and Taufer went to Dapitan in 1895. For the past three years
since his exile in Dapitan in1892, Rizal had led a lonely life in that forgotten outpost in
Mindanao. It was no wonder therefore that when he saw Josephine in the prime of her
maidenhood, he fell in love with the Hongkong teenager.

Rizal intended to marry Josephine and informed the Dapitan priest of his intention,
but the numberless obstacles placed by the church to block the marriage irked the
young physician. By advice of his mother, Rizal and Josephine lived without the benefit
of marriage for over a year until Rizal’s execution in 1896. In penning his Ultimo Adios
Rizal remembered Josephine in the fourth line of the fourteenth stanza as his “Dulce
estrangera, mi amiga, mi alegria.”

After Rizal died, she joined the Filipino revolutionist.

 LEONOR VALENZUELA. From the young Rizal this tall girl with regal bearing
received love notes written in invisible ink, deciphered over the warmth of a candle of
lamp. Just like what happened with Segunda, he stopped short of proposing marriage to
Orang.

SUZANNE JACOBY. Fleeing from Paris and the expensive cost of living because of
the international exposition. Rizal went to Brussels, the capital of Belgium. There he
was also sure being able to concentrate on his writing of his second novel, El
Filibusterismo. Amidst the festive atmosphere of the summertime celebration, he came
to know Suzanne Jacoby, a niece of his landladies. Alone in a strange land and longing
for someone to care for him, he might have probably enjoyed blissful moments with the
Belgian beauty but his high moral standard prevented him from forgetting his gallant
search for the light that had brought him to freer faraway land. Suzanne wept over
Rizal’s leaving the city of Brussels and wrote him when he was already in Madrid: “I feel
very unhappy that perhaps I might never see you again.”

Rizal’s relationships with women embodied a wholesome philosophy of life. He was

a lover of beautiful women, but no one could say that he took liberties. His friendship is
joyous and worthwhile experiences without any trace of deception. In his relationships
with many women friends, it is pleasing to note that there had never been sources of
scandals, of heartbreaks and disappointments.

In other words, Rizal had always been the perfect, gentleman, believing that men
and women should have a stainless conduct, singleness of purpose and right judgment.

Review Questions:
1`. Why was Rizal attractive to women?
2. Discuss each women in the life of Rizal.
3. Compare and contrast each relationship of Rizal in every women.