THE GREAT PLEBEIAN COLLEGE
Don Pedro Reinoso Street, Alaminos City, Pangasinan
LIFE AND WORKS OF RIZAL
CHAPTER 25:
MARTYRDOM AT
BAGUMBAYAN
SUBMITTED BY:
ALAYSA GEN A. RABAYA
MA. REGINA RAGODO
SUBMITTED TO:
MARILOU RAPATALO, MAEd
SET-B GROUP 25
SATURDAY CLASS 11:00 – 2:00 PM
Introduction
Dr. José Rizal, the Philippines’ national hero, was executed on
December 30, 1896, in Bagumbayan (now Luneta Park). His death
marked a turning point in Philippine history, inspiring the
revolution against Spanish colonial rule. This chapter recounts
Rizal’s last hours, the letters he wrote, his death march to
Bagumbayan, his martyrdom, and the aftermath of his heroic
sacrifice.
The Last Hours of Rizal
Rizal’s final hours were marked by solemnity and reflection.
1. December 29, 1896
• 6:00 AM: Captain Rafael Dominguez read Rizal’s official death
sentence. He was informed that he would be executed by
firing squad the next morning at Bagumbayan.
• 7:00 AM: Rizal was transferred to his death cell in Fort
Santiago.
• Throughout the day, Rizal received visitors, including Jesuit
priests such as Fr. Miguel Saderra Mata and Fr. Luis Viza. He
also met his mother Teodora Alonso and his sister Trinidad.
• Rizal wrote several farewell letters during this time. He also
completed his final poem, Mi Último Adiós, which he secretly
placed inside an alcohol stove and handed to Trinidad.
• In his final hours, Rizal was calm and composed, reflecting on
his life and the sacrifices he made for his country.
2. December 30, 1896
• Early Morning: Rizal spent quiet moments reflecting on his life
and faith. He ate breakfast with Fr. Antonio Roselle and
continued conversations with other visitors.
• Before leaving his cell, Rizal handed over his personal
belongings to his family members, including his watch and a
few other items.
• He also made arrangements for his family, ensuring they
would be taken care of after his death.
Letters Written by Rizal
Rizal wrote several heartfelt letters during his last hours:
1. To His Family
• A letter expressing gratitude for their love and asking
forgiveness for any pain he caused them. He also encouraged
them to remain strong and united in the face of adversity.
• Rizal emphasized the importance of education and unity
among his family members, urging them to continue striving
for a better future.
2. To Paciano (His Brother)
• A deeply emotional letter acknowledging their shared
sacrifices for the country. He praised Paciano for his
unwavering support and asked him to continue fighting for
their ideals.
• Rizal expressed his hope that Paciano would continue to
inspire others to join the cause for independence.
3. To Ferdinand Blumentritt (His Best Friend)
• A farewell letter highlighting their intellectual friendship and
shared ideals for reform. Rizal thanked Blumentritt for his
support and encouragement throughout his life.
• He also acknowledged Blumentritt’s role in spreading
awareness about the Philippine situation in Europe.
Final Poem: Mi Último Adiós
• This poem reflects Rizal’s patriotism and love for the
Philippines. It is considered one of his greatest works and a
testament to his enduring legacy.
• The poem expresses his hope for a brighter future for his
country and his people, emphasizing the importance of unity
and sacrifice for freedom.
The Death March to Bagumbayan
On December 30, 1896, Rizal began his death march from Fort
Santiago to Bagumbayan:
• He walked calmly and with dignity while heavily guarded by
soldiers.
• Rizal wore a black wool suit and derby hat; his arms were tied
behind him during the march.
• As he walked, he reflected on his youth and student days at
Ateneo.
• Crowds gathered along the route to witness the execution of
the man many considered a hero.
• The atmosphere was somber, with many onlookers moved by
Rizal’s courage and composure in the face of death.
Martyrdom of a Hero
At precisely 7:03 AM, Rizal aged 35 years, five months and 11
days. was executed by a firing squad composed of Filipino soldiers
under Spanish command:
• Initially instructed to face away from the firing squad as a sign
of dishonor, Rizal courageously turned around at the last
moment to face his executioners.
• His final words were “Consummatum est” (“It is finished”),
echoing Christ’s words on the cross.
• His body fell lifeless onto the ground as he faced the sky—a
symbolic gesture of hope for freedom.
• The execution was a stark reminder of the brutal suppression
of dissent by the Spanish authorities.
Rizal died as he described in his farewell poem, third stanza:
“I die just when I see the dawn break,
Through the gloom of night, to herald the day;
And if color is lacking my blood thou shalt take,
Pour’d out at need for thy dear sake,
To dye with its crimson the waking ray”.
It is also interesting to note that 14 years before his execution,
Rizal predicted that he would die on December 30th.
The entry in his diary reads as follows:
January 1, 1883.
Two nights ago, that is 30 December, I had a frightful
nightmare when I almost died. I dreamed that, imitating an
actor dying on stage, I felt vividly that my breath was failing
and I was rapidly losing my strength. Then my vision became
dim and dense of darkness enveloped me they are the pangs of
death.
Aftermath of Hero-Martyr’s Death
After the hero’s execution the Spanish spectators shouted “Viva
España!” “Muerte a los Traidores” , “Long Live Spain!” “Death
to the Traitors” and the Spanish military band, joining the
jubilance over rizal’s death, played the gay Marcha de Cadiz
As Cecilio Apostol, greatest Filipino epic poet in Spanish, aptly
rhapsodized: ¹¹
“Rest in peace in the shadows of oblivion,
Redeemer of a country in bondage!
In the mystery of the grave, do not cry,
Heed not the momentary triumph of the Spaniards
Because if a bullet destroyed your cranium,
Likewise your idea destroyed an empire!”
Rizal’s execution had profound effects on Philippine society:
1. Impact on Nationalism
• His death inspired Filipinos to continue fighting for
independence from Spanish rule. His writings (Noli Me
Tangere and El Filibusterismo) became symbols of resistance
against oppression.
• The Katipunan, a secret society founded by Andrés Bonifacio,
was galvanized by Rizal’s martyrdom, leading to increased
support for the revolution.
2. Burial and Legacy
• Initially buried in an unmarked grave at Paco Cemetery,
Rizal’s remains were later transferred to their final resting
place at the Rizal Monument in Luneta Park.
• The monument became a symbol of national pride and a
reminder of Rizal’s sacrifice for freedom.
3. Commemoration
• December 30 was declared “Rizal Day” in 1898 by General
Emilio Aguinaldo to honor Rizal’s sacrifice for freedom.
• Today, Rizal Day is celebrated annually to commemorate his
life and legacy.
4. Symbolic Importance
• Rizal’s martyrdom solidified him as a national hero who
sacrificed himself for liberty through peaceful means rather
than violence.
• His legacy continues to inspire Filipinos to uphold the values
of patriotism, justice, and selfless devotion to one’s country.
Reflections on Rizal’s Legacy
Rizal’s life and death have inspired countless Filipinos to pursue
their dreams and fight for their rights. His legacy extends beyond
his writings and political activism; it embodies the spirit of
resilience and courage that defines the Filipino people. As a
nation, the Philippines continues to draw strength from Rizal’s
example, striving for a future where freedom, justice, and equality
are cherished by all.
Rizal’s Impact on Modern Society
Today, Rizal’s influence can be seen in various aspects of
Philippine society:
1. Education
• Rizal’s emphasis on education as a tool for social change
continues to inspire educational reforms in the Philippines.
• His belief in the power of knowledge to uplift society remains
a guiding principle in Philippine education.
2. Literature and Arts
• Rizal’s literary works have inspired generations of Filipino
writers and artists. His novels and poems continue to be
studied and celebrated for their historical and cultural
significance.
• His legacy in literature serves as a reminder of the power of
art to challenge societal norms and inspire change.
3. National Identity
• Rizal’s life and writings have played a crucial role in shaping
the Filipino identity. His vision for a united and independent
Philippines continues to inspire national pride and unity.
• His legacy serves as a reminder of the importance of
preserving cultural heritage and promoting national unity.
Conclusion
José Rizal’s martyrdom at Bagumbayan remains one of the most
significant events in Philippine history. His unwavering
commitment to freedom through education and peaceful reform
left an indelible mark on the nation’s struggle for independence.
His life continues to serve as an enduring symbol of patriotism and
selfless devotion to one’s country. Today, Rizal is remembered not
only as a hero but as a beacon of hope for a brighter future for the
Philippines.
Final Thoughts
Rizal’s story is a testament to the power of courage and conviction.
His legacy continues to inspire Filipinos to strive for a better
future, one where freedom, justice, and equality are cherished by
all. As we reflect on his life and death, we are reminded of the
enduring impact one person can have on the course of history.
References
• Zaide, Gregorio F., & Zaide, Sonia M. Jose Rizal: Life, Works, and Writings of a
Genius, Writer, Scientist, and National Hero (Second Edition).
• Historical accounts from various sources, including Studocu and Wikipedia.
• Commemorative details from USA Inquirer and other historical publications.
• Additional insights from Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.