POLYTECHNIC UNIVERSITY OF

THE PHILIPPINES

Polytechnic University of the Philippines

Life and Works of Rizal

Submitted by:
Izumi Baban
BSBA-MM-2-2

Submitted to:
Mr. Rodrigo S. Dolorosa

(2024-2025)
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THE PHILIPPINES

Assignment no. 1
Biography of Dr. Rizal

Dr. Jose Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda, born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba,
Laguna, was a man whose intellect and patriotism left a significant mark on Philippine history.
As the seventh of eleven children in a well-off family, he grew up with the values of hard work
and education. His parents, Teodora Alonzo Realonda and Francisco Mercado II, ensured that
Rizal received proper schooling, which eventually led him to become a brilliant medical student
at the University of Madrid. Rizal is best known for his works, particularly the novels “Noli Me
Tangere” (1887) and “El Filibusterismo” (1891), which exposed the brutality and corruption of
the Spanish colonizers in the Philippines. These novels sparked a sense of nationalism among
Filipinos and shed light on the social injustices faced by the people. His critical writings made
him a target of the Spanish government, who viewed him as a threat to their control over the
country. In 1890, Rizal also released an annotated edition of Antonio de Morga's Sucesos de las
Islas Filipinas, which was later republished in 1958. In this work, Rizal looked to emphasize
that the indigenous people of the Philippines had a rich and significant history long before the
arrival of the Spaniards. His annotations were an attempt to reclaim the narrative of Filipino
identity and challenge the colonial perception that Spain had brought civilization to the islands.
Rizal’s intellectual efforts were not limited to historical works; he became a leading figure in
the Propaganda Movement, an organization aimed at achieving political reforms in the
Philippines. As a prolific writer, Rizal contributed numerous articles to La Solidaridad, the
movement's primary publication, which was based in Barcelona, Spain. In addition to his
literary contributions, Rizal's work on the annotated edition of Antonio de Morga’s “Sucesos de
las Islas Filipinas” was a major effort to highlight the rich history of the Philippines before
Spanish colonization. Through this, Rizal emphasized the importance of Filipino identity and
sought to dismantle the colonial narrative that Spain had "civilized" the country. Rizal's
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THE PHILIPPINES
involvement in the Propaganda Movement, a group that advocated for political reforms in the
Philippines, further solidified his role as a leading figure in the fight for Philippine
independence. His writings in “La Solidaridad” amplified the call for freedom and justice.
Unfortunately, his intellectual and peaceful resistance to Spanish rule led to his arrest and
eventual execution on December 30, 1896, in Bagumbayan (now Luneta Park). His martyrdom
became the catalyst for the Philippine Revolution, inspiring future generations of Filipinos to
continue the struggle for independence. In my opinion, Dr. Jose Rizal is undoubtedly deserving
of being called a national hero. His intelligence, courage, and dedication to the Filipino people
set him apart. Even though he did not take up arms, his fight through education and reason
showed that change can be achieved through peaceful means. His sacrifice for the country
serves as a reminder that true patriotism is not always in violence but in the commitment to
uplift and empower one's nation.
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THE PHILIPPINES

Assignment no. 2

“Ang makabagong Rizal sa ating kasalukuyang panahon”

When we reflect on the life and contributions of Dr. Jose Rizal, he was not only a hero who
fought for the liberation of the Filipino people but also an individual who valued education,
justice, and equality. In today’s world, we ask ourselves: who can embody such principles? In
my view, Leni Robredo stands out as a modern-day Rizal. Though her platform differs from
Rizal’s, her dedication to the country, the marginalized, and to meaningful reform aligns with
the same aspirations Rizal had for the Philippines.

Leni Robredo, the former Vice President of the Philippines, shares many qualities with Rizal,
particularly in her unwavering commitment to serve the people. Rizal fought against Spanish
oppression through his writings, most notably his novels Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo. Robredo, on the other hand, utilized her position in government to champion
human rights, social justice, and good governance. Like Rizal, Robredo used peaceful means to
enact change, advocating for transparency and accountability in leadership, and choosing
education as a tool to uplift communities.

One of the most striking similarities between Rizal and Robredo is their humble beginnings.
Rizal came from a relatively simple family in Calamba, Laguna, yet his intellect and
determination allowed him to rise to prominence. In the same vein, Robredo, a widow and
mother, entered the political arena not through wealth or connections but through her desire to
serve others. Her path mirrors Rizal’s humility and his belief that one does not need to come
from a powerful family to make a difference.

Rizal and Robredo also share a deep sense of compassion for the marginalized. Rizal was an
advocate for the rights of Filipino farmers, laborers, and those oppressed by Spanish colonizers.
His works depicted the struggles of ordinary Filipinos, and he called for reforms that would
improve their lives. Similarly, Leni Robredo’s projects as Vice President often centered around
the poor and underserved. From her Angat Buhay program, which helped communities in need,
to her hands-on approach during calamities, Robredo consistently placed the welfare of ordinary
Filipinos at the heart of her work.

Another remarkable trait that connects Rizal and Robredo is their resilience in the face of
adversity. Rizal was exiled, persecuted, and eventually executed for his beliefs, yet he never
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wavered in his dedication to the Filipino people. In a modern context, Robredo faced constant
political harassment, misinformation, and opposition during her term. Despite these challenges,
she remained steadfast, continuing her work without bitterness or retaliation. Her calm and
dignified approach, even when faced with personal and political attacks, is reminiscent of
Rizal’s poise under pressure.

As a student, I believe that the comparison between Jose Rizal and Leni Robredo lies in their
shared vision of a better Philippines. Both understood that genuine progress comes from
empowering the people, advocating for their rights, and promoting education. Rizal once said,
"The youth is the hope of the future," and in many ways, Robredo embodies that hope. Her
focus on education, livelihood programs, and her push for inclusive development show that, like
Rizal, she is committed to laying the foundation for a brighter future for all Filipinos.

Rizal fought against colonizers in a time when the Philippines was under foreign rule, and his
weapon was his pen. Robredo, in contrast, navigates a democratic system, where the struggle is
more about combating corruption, inequality, and misinformation. The battles they face are
different, but their principles remain aligned.
Leni Robredo can be considered a modern-day Rizal not because she mirrors his every action,
but because she continues his legacy of fighting for justice, equality, and the empowerment of
the Filipino people. She exemplifies the same courage, humility, and intellectual integrity that
Rizal demonstrated in his lifetime. In a country still facing many challenges, we need leaders
who carry on Rizal’s dream of a free, just, and educated society, and Leni Robredo’s life and
work reflect this dream in today’s world.
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Assignment no. 3
“To the Filipino Youth”

Jose Rizal's “To the Filipino Youth” is a passionate call to the younger generation to rise and
take responsibility for the future of the Philippines. In the poem, Rizal encourages the youth to
hold their heads high with confidence, recognizing their potential as the nation's hope. He
emphasizes the importance of using their intelligence, creativity, and passion to inspire positive
change and shape a brighter future. Rizal sees the youth as the key to freedom and progress,
urging them to harness their talents for the betterment of the country. This poem reminds us,
even today, that the youth have the power to drive meaningful transformation.
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Assignment no. 4

Repunlic Act no. 1425

“Republic Act No. 1425” commonly known as the Rizal Law was enacted in 1956. The law
mandates all educational institutions in the Philippines to include courses on the life, works, and
writings of Dr. Jose Rizal, particularly his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.
Authored by Senator Claro M. Recto, the primary objective of the law is to inspire nationalism
and patriotism among Filipinos by learning about Rizal’s role in advocating for the country's
independence and reform during the Spanish colonial period. It seeks to instill appreciation for
the hero's ideals and sacrifices, thus deepening Filipinos' sense of identity and love for the
country.

Personal Reaction:

As I researched Republic Act No. 1425, I realized how crucial it is in shaping our national
identity. By requiring students to study Rizal's works, the law ensures that future generations
remain aware of the struggles that shaped our country. Learning about Rizal’s fight against
oppression and his advocacy for freedom reminds me that we, too, have a responsibility to
continue protecting our country's values and independence.

What I particularly appreciate about this law is its emphasis on education as a tool for change.
By understanding our past through Rizal's works, we gain insight into the importance of critical
thinking, reform, and civic engagement. The law doesn’t only commemorate Rizal as a national
hero, but it also challenges us to emulate his courage, intellect, and love for the Philippines.

Personally, this law makes me reflect on the relevance of Rizal's ideas in today's society. His
calls for reform and social justice are still applicable in our present struggles for good
governance, equality, and national progress. I believe that Republic Act No. 1425 serves as a
reminder that the lessons from our history must guide our actions today, making it a vital law in
shaping both individual character and national consciousness.