Daluyong Magazine - GERIZAL Y24 Pangkat 3 by Storm Masongsong

GERIZAL PANGKAT 3 ALDECOA, RENZEL RAPHAEL OROLFO CAHIMAT, CAMRY NICOLE PACHECO CHUA, TYRON JASPER LI DAVID, SERGIO RAFAEL REYES ESTRABELA, JEISLER CLINT TAN FABIA, ELIANA ANGELA CHUA GASPAR, SOFIA FLORES MASONGSONG, CHAUNNE-IRA EZZLERAIN NECESITO, REIZZA MAE RABELAS OCAMPO, BENHUR JEZREEL DAVID ARANETA ONG, KATHRYN BIANCA RAMOS, JOHN VINCENT MEDINA

Layout likha ni Chaunne-Ira Ezzlerain “Storm” Masongsong

Introduksyon “Ang daluyong ay isang malaking along likha ng matinding hangin, lindol, o anumang lakas ng kalikasan.” Malakas ang isang daluyong, lalo na’t ito’y bumebwelo nang malalim bago ito dumating. Malalim ang pinanggagalingan nito: sa ilalim ng dagat, bago ito lumitaw sa ibabaw. Katulad din naming manlilikha at manunulat sa magasin na ito, malalim din ang aming pinanghuhugutan dulot ng pag-aaral hindi lamang tungkol sa buhay ni Rizal ngunit pati rin ang epekto niya sa kasalukuyan. Parang isang daluyong— ang pagkakakilala at presensya ni Rizal bilang simbolo, bayani, at mamamayang Pilipino— ay magkakroon ng malaki at malakas na epekto sa iba’t ibang oras, sa iba’t ibang panahon. Sa magasin naming Daluyong, halina’t tunghayan ang mga artikulo, sanaysay, sining, prosa, tula, at retrato buhat sa buhay, mga likha, at epekto ni Rizal sa iba’t ibang panahon. Sama-sama nating alamin ang ating kahapon, patungo ngayon at hanggang sa sumabay tayo sa hinaharap na alon ng ating bansa: isang makapangyarihang daluyong.

Nilalaman I. Rizal’s Life and Works (Ang Buhay At Mga Likha ni Rizal) Jose Rizal? Do We Really Know Rizal? Article John Vincent M. Ramos Buhay ng Bayani Visual Art (Digital Collage) Sergio David Turning Pain Into Power Essay Article Reizza Necesito

II. Impact of Rizal’s Legacy to the Filipino Youth (Ang Impact ni Rizal sa Kabataan) “The Two Joses and Time in Between” Prose (Short Story) Jeisler Estrabela

Impact ni Rizal Essay Benhur Ocampo

A Template Essay Renzel Raphael O. Aldecoa

III. Relevant Social Issues During Rizal’s Time That Are Still Timely (Mga Importanteng Isyu Noong Panahon ni Rizal na Patuloy na Dinaranas)

What Does It Take? Essay Article Sofia Gaspar

Para Saan Pa (Visual Art) Digital Art Eliana Fabia

Pro-Philippines Essay Tyron Jasper Chua

IV. Looking Into The Future (Pagtanaw sa Kinabukasan) Ang Kahalagan ni Rizal sa Susunod na Henerasyon Essay Article Kathryn Ong Ilaw ng Pilipinas Poetry Camry Nicole Camihat

Liwanag sa Dilim Photography + Prose Poetry Chaunne-Ira Ezzlerain Masongsong “Storm”

Hinaharap at Humaharap Photography + Prose Poetry Chaunne-Ira Ezzlerain Masongsong “Storm”

V. Our Insights (Mga Kaisipan)

Rizal’s Life and Works

Introduksiyon

Ang Buhay at Mga Likha ni Rizal

? l a z i ? R l a e z i Jos Really Know R e W o D

John Vincent M. Ramos

It is common knowledge in the Philippines that José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda or more commonly known as Jose Rizal is the National Hero of the Country. A day within a full year is even allotted just to celebrate him. The 30th of December is declared as Rizal Day. It is a national holiday that commemorates Jose Rizal’s execution in Bagumbayan on the 30th of December in 1896 (OfficeHolidays.com, 2021). A multitude of other things are created in the Philippines to commemorate Jose Rizal. There are multiple movies like “Jose Rizal: Ang Buhay Ng Isang Bayani” (1996), “Rizal Sa Dapitan” (1997), “Jose Rizal “(1998), “Bayaning 3rd World” (1999), and “Jose Rizal: The First Hero” (2012) (Fernando, 2018). There are even theater shows created in relation to his life or to remember his deeds. Some of these are “Batang Riza”l, “Sino ka ba, Jose Rizal?”, “Rizal’s Sweet Stranger”, and “Inang Bayan” (JoseRizal.com, n.d.). There’s even a statue of Dr. Jose Rizal in Rizal Park located in Ermita, Manila. Needless to say, Rizal very famous and well respected in the Philippines. People know of his greatest achievements like La Liga Filipina, La Solidaridad, Noli Me Tangere, and El Filibusterismo, but do the common Filipino people know the other details in Rizal’s life and its intricacies? In this article, the lesser-known information about Rizal’s life will be focused upon.

Rizal Did Not Excel ?

Jose Rizal was initially home taught by his mother but later on, he enrolled in Ateneo Municipal de Manila, now known as Ateneo De Manila University). It was during his tenure in this school where he dropped the last three names in his full name, as advised by Paciano Rizal, which led to him being known as Jose Protacio Rizal (Valdeavilla, 2018). At school, initially, Rizal was not very active because of his inability to speak in Spanish fluently and because he is a sickly child. Due to this, he was always sad. This is contrary to popular belief where people thought that Rizal immediately excelled in school and in academics. He was able to overcome this when he started to read history and textbooks and novels, some of which were in Spanish. He also improved with the help of Fr. Francisco Paula de Sanchez, one of Rizal’s professors. He helped young Jose Rizal in learning the Spanish language. Because of this, Rizal started to excel in class, earn high grades, and become happier.

e t i r W ly l a e R l a Did Riz This Poem ?

Most of the times that we hear or see the poem entitled “Sa Aking Mga Kabata”, we usually think that the author is Jose Rizal. This is where history, as people look at it, is wrong. It was also thought that Rizal wrote the poem when he was 8 years old. Looking into this further, there is no solid evidence or even any source that can lead to the poem being a work of Rizal. And, in relation to the previous section of this article, Rizal did not immediately excel at school, so, it is almost certain that Rizal would not be able to write a poem that good at that point in his life.

Rizal Almost Went to Letran ? When Rizal applied for Ateneo, he was almost rejected since he was late for the registration period and he also looked very frail and weak to withstand the harshness of Jesuit education. He was also late because Rizal initially thought of going to San Juan de Letran instead. He was admitted to Ateneo due to the help of Manuel Jerez, the nephew of Fr. Jose Burgos (Lee-Chua, 2011). Manuel Jerez was able to help Jose Rizal because he was his neighbor at that time. Luckily, Rizal was admitted to Ateneo because in his time in this school, he started leaning towards literature and writing. During his stay, Rizal was also inclined to fencing, gymnastics, drawing, and sculpting. Rizal even said, “I owe a great deal to the Jesuit order – almost, almost everything I am”.

What Did Rizal Do There ? Jose Rizal was sent to Dapitan because a copy of El Filibusterismo was located in his house and according to the Spaniards, this shows that Rizal is not loyal to Spain. This was the since his novel was labeled by the Spaniards as something that is challenging the rule of Spain and the friars. Moving on, when he was in Dapitan, Rizal did

not waste his time and he became productive. He continued his connection to his European friends through constant exchanges of letters. Because of this, knowing of Rizal’s situation, his friend Blumentritt sent him multiple books to help Rizal broaden his knowledge further. Jose Rizal also cultivated a 34-hectare farm, he put up a school, a dormitory, and a gym for the locals, he started a clinic to give treatment to the ill, and he also built dams and waterworks (National Historical Commission of the Philippines, n.d.). Rizal utilized his educational, medicinal, artistical, architectural, entrepreneurial, and engineering skills to help the people of Dapitan. During his time there, he did not only improve and helped himself grow but he also brought Dapitan along with him. In addition, a less known fact about Rizal in Dapitan is that he wrote a discourse entitled “La curacion de los hechizados” or “The treatment and cure of the bewitched” which talked extensively about kulam or witchcraft (Batongbakal, 2015).

Rizal In the Animal Kingdom ? Rizal’s fame is not only for the Filipino people and Homo Sapiens, but it also extends to the animal kingdom. This is the case because three animals were named after the Filipino hero. It was during his time in Dapitan wherein he had the chance to showcase his talent as a scientist. He was able to identify never before seen types of frogs, beetles, and lizards. The specific animals are Rhacophorus Rizali (a toad), Draco Rizali (a flying lizard), and Apogonia Rizali (a beetle) (Sarmiento, n.d.).

Jose Rizal ? the Father of Filipino Comics ? To most Filipino historians, Rizal was considered as the Father of Filipino Comics. This is because of his sketches like “The Monkey and the Turtle”. He also drew “The Baptism of R. Pfeiffer at Holy Cross Steinach” when is was in Heidelberg, Germany, He drew that to play with the kids of Paster Ulmer, his landlord (Create Meaningful Connections, n.d.).

Jose Rizal

is more than what most people know him to be. He did more in his life and for the Filipino people outside of his written works. It is an easy thing to say that he definitely deserves to be the national hero of the Philippines. Lastly, if you did not know about all of these facts, now you know.

References for this article Batongbakal, L. (2015). 10 amazing facts you probably didn’t know about Jose Rizal. Retrieved from https://www.spot.ph/newsfeatures/the-latest-news-features/64740/10-amazing-facts-you-probably-didnt-know-about-jose-rizal. Create Meaningful Connections. (n.d.). 10 surprising things you probably didn’t know about Jose Rizal. Retrieved from https://www.m2social.net/blog/surprising-things-aboutjose-rizal/. Fernando, C. (2018). Looking for Rizal in the movies? Start with these titles. Retrieved from https://metro.style/culture/spotlight/looking-for-rizal-in-the-movies-start-with-these/9885 JoseRizal.com. (n.d.). The lif of Rizal in movies and plays. Retrieved from https://www.joserizal.com/life-rizal-movies-plays/. Lee-Chua, Q.N. (2011). Rizal, the Atenean. Retrieved from https://newsinfo.inquirer. net/16335/rizal-the-atenean

National Historical Commission of the Philippines. (n.d.). Museo ni Jose Rizal, Dapitan. Retrieved from https://nhcp.gov.ph/museums/rizal-shrine-dapitan/#:~:text=Rizal%20also%20 put%20up%20a,of%20Dapitan%20with%20street%20lighting. OfficeHolidays.com. (2021). Rizal day in the Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.officeholidays.com/holidays/philippines/rizal-day Sarmiento, V.H. (n.d.). 10 interesting things about Dr. Jose Rizal. Retrieved from https://pia. gov.ph/features/articles/1003610. Valdeavilla, R. (2018). The life and legacy of Jose Rizal: National hero of the Philippines. Retrieved from https://theculturetrip.com/asia/philippines/articles/the-life-and-legacy-ofjose-rizal-the-philippines-national-hero/

nararamdaman mo na ba ang pagdating ng daluyong?

Buhay ng Bayani Sergio David

Turning Pain Into Power Reizza Necesito

It is widely believed that the actions and thoughts of an individual are results of the various influences in his lifetime, making it important to talk about the places, people, and events in his life. In the case of Dr. Jose Rizal, it is essential to have a deeper understanding as to the circumstances that molded him into the person that he was back then and why he is regarded as the national hero of the Philippines. Many people look up to Rizal not only for having intellectual brilliance but also for voicing out his opinions and resisting the Spanish colonial government. The quintessence of his life is marked by the situations that happened not only in the Philippines but around the world, particularly in Europe. The 19th century was also called the Age of Enlightenment, but for Filipinos it is one of the darkest parts of the past. Spaniards ruled the country and oppressed Filipinos for a long time, holding them under extreme privation and sufferings. There was injustice, social and racial discrimination, abusive economic system, cruel way of church, and government corruption. Filipinos could not even fight for their rights because they have no room in court and could not even vocalize opinions because of the punishment they will face when they talk. Spaniards identified Filipinos, especially those who are in the bottom of their so called social hierarchy, as slaves and fools — no rights to own land, no rights to speak, and no rights for education. Officials who were supposed to be there to maintain peace and order only abused their powers and brought violence to the people.

Friars who were supposed to strengthen faith in religion were greedy and merciless individuals. Justice that was supposed to be for everyone was served only to those who are in the upper class of the social hierarchy. Law that was supposed to cover and followed by all people of the state can be bought by power and money. This sums up how cruel the Spanish government was during the 19th century and how helpless Filipinos were during their reign. This also sums up the environment that Rizal grew up in and the experiences that have shaped and molded his perspectives in life. The 19th century is the sickening phase of the Philippines’ colorful past that should not be buried and forgotten because although it is painful to recall nowadays, it is also the part of the history that shows how Rizal, as well as the other propagandists and heroes, fought hard to get back the freedom, the rights of the Filipinos, the land that is rightfully owned by the nation, and most importantly, the peace that everyone deserves to have. That is the time where a true sense of nationalism has arisen. The 19th century is the time that Rizal demonstrated that knowledge and mind is a great weapon, that if properly used, a pen can really be mightier than any sword. That being said, his novels awakened the nationalism of Filipinos and through his writings, he was able to expose the wrongdoings and corruption of the government officials as well as the Spanish friars. While he was in Europe, he wrote literary pieces to the Spanish newspaper called La Solidaridad and most of his writings focused on individual rights and freedom of the Filipinos. Among his best works, the two novels that stood out from the rest are Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. In these novels, Rizal criticized the Spanish colonial rule in the country and exposed the ills of the Philippine society at that time. Concentrating on the plots of his works, the story is there simply as a hook to capture the readers initially because the content of the novels is intended to make them reflect and ideally act. These two novels which are considered as his literary masterpieces both indirectly sparked the Philippine revolution. Looking at it in today’s time, it is notable that Dr. Jose Rizal left quite a legacy for the Filipinos. He left novels that, although outdated, the situations still remain

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and are still happening. His work ethics and discipline are what one should strive for. Rizal will always be a source of hope and admiration for Filipinos. His legacy was his whole life and one can truly learn a lot even in just one segment of it. The life of Dr. Jose Rizal is a blueprint for the youth to follow. If obeyed by today’s generation, this model would be able to change the current status of the country. This example could bring the Philippines to another level and help in the development towards a progressive nation. Rizal showed the ideal youth through his life and works and how they can be of big help in the improvement and development of the country. He showed his love for the Philippines by doing all the means that he can do to liberate his oppressed people. He endured pain, physically and emotionally, just to accomplish what is best for his fellowmen. Hopefully, the Filipinos in today’s generation would be able to turn the table of fortunes in favor of the country by fighting for what is right as well as continuously loving and valuing the motherland, even in the simplest ways possible.

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Impact of Rizal’s Legacy to the Filipino Youth

Ang Impact ni Rizal sa Kabataan

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“The Two Joses and Time in Between”

Jeisler Estrabela

“Where are you, Jose? Stop playing outside and get back inside! We’re about to eat already!” These are the words that I heard before I experienced an unexplainable phenomenon. I was laying underneath my favorite Narra tree, near our home when suddenly I felt drowsy. As soon as I closed my eyes to sleep, in what felt like an instant, I woke up in a plaza, where someone was trying to reach for my hand. “Are you lost?” This man before me looked familiar. I immediately asked for his name. “Oh, sorry, I wasn’t able to introduce myself.” The man before me smiled and continued…” I’m Jose Rizal.” Such a big revelation was presented to me, and I am filled with nothing but questions. Is this a dream? “How about you? Care to share your name?” “I’m… Jose as well.” I replied.

Rizal laughed at what a coincidence that we shared the same name when he didn’t know that he is the reason why my name is the same as him. He asked me for a favor to accompany him to the things he will do for today. Since it would be a better idea to join him, he will help me look for my parents. He has no idea that I am from the future. I thought to myself. With Rizal, I saw the things that he did for my hometown. He was a perito agrimensor, as they call now ‘expert surveyor’. He built the Talisay water system so that we would have clean water to drink. This Talisay water system was told to me by my mother, and I never would have thought that Rizal did this. He also drained the marshes that are filled with Malaria. This disease is pretty much non-existent in my time. He even installed a lighting system for the townspeople. With this, the Dapitan plaza became bright and colorful. But what made me appreciate him the most is how he teaches the young kids. He was an educator. He established a school that doesn’t require the students or their parents to pay. In a way, I was inspired by the knowledge and capabilities of Jose Rizal. I spent a long day with Rizal, doing the things that history books couldn’t record. While we were near the plaza, I asked Rizal, why would he do so much for us? He simply nodded and smiled at me. Before leaving the plaza, Rizal talked to me for the last time.

“You’re leaving?” “Yes. I can’t imagine how much my mother is worried about how long I’m gone.” “I understand your situation. My mother is also worried about me all the time, and a mother’s love is truly something else. Where should we look for your mother?” “No need to worry, I know where she is.” He patted on my head, and reached out for my hand, giving an odd-looking shell. “This is my gift to you. It’s one of the shells that I discovered here. I collect shells, and this shell is one of a kind.” “Thanks, I’ll hold on to it.” “Go to your mother now, be a good kid all the time.” I bid farewell to Rizal, and left the plaza, running to the Narra tree where everything began. My name is Jose, a grade school student who despises the subject of History, and I was sent back in the time of Jose Rizal when he was exiled in Dapitan. As a young student, all I wanted to do in my life was to play, play, and play. There’s really nothing more to it. It’s fun! But school? I hated every part of it. Now, I get to experience living in history, and I thought I would hate every part of it. The air I breathe, the people I met, I thought it would bore me to death.

But I was mistaken. I will remember this special opportunity that was given to me to meet Jose Rizal and the things that he has done for my hometown. I truly appreciate him, and I will definitely miss him. As I hold this shell, given to me by Rizal himself, I lay underneath the Narra tree, closing my eyes, hoping that I am sent back in the present time. * After what felt like an eternal slumber, I finally woke up with my mother holding on to me tightly. “Jose! You’re finally awake! I thought you would never wake up!” said my weeping mother. I didn’t mutter any words. I cried with her and hugged her tightly. If there is something that I realized from my journey is the word “ appreciate”. As a kid, I may have lost track of what’s really important to me. It’s not the games that I play, the comics that I read, nor the TV shows that I watch. It’s all about truly caring about the people around you. I saw in Rizal’s eyes, how he did so much for my hometown because he treated us as his family. He knows that he will leave eventually, so he did everything in which he will be remembered as the person who’s an outsider but became part of the family. With this, I hold on to the shell Rizal gave me as a parting gift and whispered:

“Consummatum est.”

Impact ni Rizal Benhur Ocampo Si Jose Rizal ay tanyag sa kaniyang impluwensya lalong lalo na sa mga kabataan noong panahon ng pananakop ng mga kolonyalista sa ating bansa. Nariyan ang kaniyang mga nobela na nagtatak ng pusong nasyonalismo sa mga bata noon upang lumaban sa mapang aping rehimeng Espanyol. Isa sa mga konkretong halimbawa nito ay ang obra maestra niyang Noli Metangere at El Filibusterismo. Ngunit hindi rito natatapos ang impluwensyang taglay ni Rizal sapagkat siya rin ay isang mahusay na doctor sa pilosopiya at isang surihano na nagpakadalubhasa sa larangan ng optalmolohiya. Dahil dito ang mga kabataan na ini-idolo si Rizal ay napuno narin ng pagasa na maaring sila rin ay may natatagong angking talento patungkol sa araling medisina. Kabila ng mga ito, hindi parin dito natatapos ang impluwensyang naipukay niya sa mga Pilipino noon sapagkat walang makakahigit pa sa kaniyang pagbubuwis ng buhay para sa ating Kalayaan. Kahit na alam niyang dahil sa kaniyang pagiging aktibo sa pagpuna sa mga kamalian ng mga Espanyol ay maglalagay sa kaniyang buhay sa peligro, ni isang parte ng kaniyang pagkatao ay hindi nagpakita ng pagkatakot. Ito ang kaniyang legasiyang naiwan sa mga Pilipino noon. Itong mga nabanggit ay iilan lamang sa mga konkretong halimbawa ng mga tagumpay na nakamit ni Rizal sa kaniyang tanang buhay. Higit na mas malaking legasiya naman ang kaniyang nakamtam dahil sa loob ng isang daan at labing limang taon mula noong pinaglaban niya ang soberanya ng Pilipinas, ay maraming mga Pilipino na ang sumunod sa kaniyang mga yapak. Dumaan ang pananakop ng Amerikano at Hapon sa mga Pilipino. Dumaan narin ang diktadurya ni Marcos at iba pang mga pagsubok pangpolitkal sa bansa. Sa dami nang dumaan na unos na ito, nanatili parin ang aral na hatid ni Rizal lalong lalo na sa mga kabataang katulad ko.

33 Unang una sa impact na naibigay ni Rizal sa mga kabataan ngayong henerasyon ay ang pagtayo laban sa mapang abuso at mapang api na ‘di gumagamit ng dahas. Dahil nga sa paglaganap ng Social Media sa panahon ngayon mas naging madali para sa mga tao na ilabas ang kani-kaniyang mga opinion at saloobin patungkol sa mga nagbabagang mga issue sa lipunan gaya ng mga usapin tungkol sa pamamlaakd ng gobyerno. Kaya kagaya ni Rizal na hindi itinago ang kaniyang mga hinaing laban sa pamamalakad ng mga kastila, ganoon narin ang mga kabataan ngayon dahil hindi nagiging tikom ang kanilang mga bibig sa pagsabi ng mga maling gawain ng mga nakatataas sa lipunan. At huli naman sa kaniyang naiwang impact sa mga kabataan ngayon ay ang pagiging palaban sa ibang bansa sa larangan ng sining, siyensa at iba pang mga bagay. Dahil sa mga nakamit ni Rizal na karangalan sa internasyonal na pam-patimpalakan, ito ay isa sa naging inspirasyon sa mga bagong henerasyon upang hubugin ang sarili sa kani-kaniyang mga larangan nang sa gayon ay magkamit din ng tagumpay na makakapagbigay karangalan sa bansang sinilangan. Bukod sa aking mga nabanggit, napakarami pang ibang magagandang impluwensya ang naihatid ni Rizal sa ating mga kabataan sa bagong henerasyon. Kahit na ito ay nakapaloob sa iba ibang mga aspeto , iisa lamang ang layuning hangad ni Rizal ito ay ang maisikap nating maabot ang ika nga best version ng ating mga sarili para narin sa ikabubuti ng ating pamilya, lipunan at sariling bayan.

A Template

Renzel Raphael O. Aldecoa

Good people come and go, but a great person will stand the test of time. One such great person is our national hero himself, Dr. Jose Rizal. Rizal is deserving of his title, not only because he has contributed much to our society through his works (poems, novels, essays, and all) and his ideologies, but also because of his character — which he has built all throughout his life, through all the hardships he had to face during the Spanish colonial period. His very character is his legacy — his greatest gift — to our nation: a template for the ideal Filipino, for our generation and for generations to come. Rizal is the personification of the phrase “call to action”. It was Rizal’s famous — and infamous, in his time — novels and essays that sparked the fire of nationalism in the hearts of many a Filipino, which later engulfed the whole nation with a fervor most intense that even the forces of the Kastila could not extinguish. This “fervor” outlived the revolution, however. The late Jesse Robredo, Cory and Ninoy Aquino, to name a few: these are some examples of modern-day heroes in the past century, all of which made the country a better place, in their own way. This “fervor” lives on to this day. There are many around my age that share the same kind of passion as Rizal did — be it in their own fields, of hobby and of profession, or in their involvement with current events — that made being in the same generation as them an honor.

Rizal held education high, as he, in his time, sought to improve the quality and accessibility of education to his fellow countrymen, who were deprived of such by the Spanish colonizers. To Rizal, the purpose of education is to “elevate the country to the highest seat of glory and to develop the people’s mentality,” as it was the “foundation of society” and “a prerequisite for social progress” (Jose Rizal University, n.d.). To cure the nation of its social cancer, the medicine that is education must be administered to all, an education free of political and religious bias and, in turn, freeing (Perdon, R., 2016). Our nation has had no shortage of excellent and passionate students. Among the many, a select few flourish that — I live in hope — would carry our nation with them in their rise to greatness. Some take a mile further, as they aspire to become educators themselves. Each of these people, in their pursuit for knowledge, I salute. Rizal is our national hero for a reason most blatant: he loved his country. His love for his country, most genuine and persevering, drove Rizal to do what he had done all those years ago: a love that even the fear of death could not sway. This attribute of Rizal, in my opinion, is in need of attention. This may be considered the core, the very heart and soul of an ideal Filipino. As the youth, it is of utmost importance that we learn to ignite nationalism in the heart of another, as did Rizal in his time with his fellow countrymen. In whatever way we can, we must keep this nationalistic fervor alive for generations to come. However, this is a feat only us — together — can accomplish, as I believe,

One can move a people, But a united people can move a nation. References: Jose Rizal University. (2004). Philosophies in Life. [Web log post]. Retrieved May 26, 2021, from http://www.joserizal.ph/ph01.html Perdon, R. (December 8, 2016). Rizal’s concept of Education. [Web log post]. Retrieved May 26, 2021, from https://muntingnayon. com/104/104917/index.php

Relevant Social Issues During Rizal’s Time That Are Still Timely

Mga Importanteng Isyu Noong Panahon ni Rizal na Patuloy na Dinaranas

What Does It Take? Sofia Gaspar

It has been more than a decade since Rizal gave his life to bring attention and reform to the despotism executed by Spain in the Philippines, but to this day we continue to see the very issues Rizal wrote about. The injustice, abuse, and corruption that he fought to change through his literature and actions, remain to have a significant presence in the country. One could wonder what Rizal would say about these current challenges the Filipinos face, despite the warnings he made of them developing, if nothing were to change. This being said, we ask the question, what does it take to reach the changes we desire? I n b o t h o f R i z a l ’ s n o v e l s , N o l i M e Ta n g e r e a n d E l Filibusterismo, Rizal brought awareness to the friar d o m i n a t i o n , h a r a s s m e n t , corrupt governance, and abuse of people’s trust in religion occurring in the Philippines. Comparing the Filipinos during Rizal’s time and the current time, in the former’s, the Filipinos could be described as complicit, blind, and for a long period of time, unable to speak up. These Filipinos came from different backgrounds and groups, each having their own lifestyle. For example, many of the middle-class and high-class professionals remained silent, despite being aware of the abuse and injustice being faced by the country. This may be attributed to the fact that these people were not directly affected or at the least, only slightly affected by the abusive actions of the Spaniards. This consequently caused them to be content with their state of living, not willing to speak up, as it may just endanger their lives or force them to face other difficulties. Aside from them, there were also Filipinos who gave absolute devotion to religion, believing in anything preached by a friar and following any orders they were told to do.

Their devotion unfortunately caused them to be blind to the abuse they were experiencing from the friars as they believed that all of their actions were supported by their faith and God. Meanwhile, there were those Filipinos who colluded with the Spaniards, brown nosing in exchange for extra benefits, no matter the consequences placed on the rest of the Filipinos. These individuals, many of whom were placed in the administration, worked for and were controlled by the Spaniards. Lastly, for the people who were neither of the previously mentioned and were aware of the brutality of the Spaniards, in fear of the possible fatal outcomes if they were to speak up, they instead remained silent for their own and their family’s safety. This is proven with Rizal’s life story as he was targeted by the Spaniards, due to his works that shed light on the Spanish brutality. Although as we all know, despite this event, Rizal’s works were still able to bring awareness, inspiration, and courage to many Filipinos to speak up and fight for their rights and freedom. Comparing this to the state of the country and the Filipinos in the current times, it can be said that though many advancements have been made, the country continues to face the same issues that were present in Rizal’s time. Issues that can not only be rooted in the current administration, but also our very community or society. When it comes to the political administration, corruption and injustice is no longer a new concept. We have encountered many issues with regards to the administration in the past years such as the multibillion pork barrel scam, the threat to the national sovereignty over the West Philippine Sea, and the current covid-19 response. Given that the issues with the past and current administration are open to be observed by any individual, one would wonder why they continued to persist over the years, unchanged. As citizens of the country, it is our responsibility to be informed of the current developments and issues faced by the country. Unfortunately, many Filipinos are still unaware or lack knowledge and information on these issues,

which may be attributed to numerous reasons. In addition to this, there are also those who though are well informed, don’t believe they need to act on it. For example, for some individuals it may be complacency caused by social status, specifically the fact that their lifestyles may not be directly affected. For others, it may be their direct involvement with the administration, which means blind support for their actions, despite its unethical theme. Alternatively, it could also be because of the lack of mediums or restriction of mediums distributing information, such as media, preventing many from being well informed. Lastly, there are those Filipinos who have decided not to act, despite being aware of the issues, in fear of the possible repercussions. If this sounds familiar, it is because these are the very same reasons that were observed during Rizal’s time.

Considering the development over the years, it can be concluded that society today has better means to voice out their opinions and to take action against the wrongdoings they observe. That being said, one does not have to make the same sacrifice that Rizal and other heroes did in their time to fight for the rights and betterment of the country. One can simply begin by first being informed of the issues and developments the country and the people face, and from there, bring greater awareness to them so that others may do the same. In the same way that Rizal’s novels brought awareness and inspiration to the Filipino people, we must now do the same. This is the first step we must take towards the change that we desire.

damdamin ang mga alon

mga alon ng panahon

Para Saan Pa Eliana Fabia

Pro-Philippines Tyron Jasper Chua

In Jerrold Tarog’s Heneral Luna, the fierce general Antonio Luna once uttered the words: “Bayan o sarili? Pumili ka!” while trying to confront a few men during a cabinet meeting. At a glance, we can say that choosing the betterment of our country over selfish interest has been an issue that has continuously transcended time. We are divided physically and ideologically. Our country being an archipelago already posed challenges to establish a united front against foreign colonizers ever since the Spanish Regime. To add to this, we, as a people, have been divided in thought and deed, making it difficult for us to fend off our invaders. Rizal showed through his works the idea to be one as a nation, and that might as well be the reason why he is considered our national hero. In the world we live in today, would you agree that despite our progress as a nation we are still bound by the same issues our forefathers faced generations before? I’d say yes. Up until today there is still a divide amongst ourselves. For some reason, we cannot look forward to progress without blaming each other for their past shortcomings, with all the reds and yellows, can’t we just put ourselves in between? The part where we recognize the capability of each and every person and how we could build each other up to work together as a nation, not red nor yellow, just pro-Philippines. Every waking moment we are posed with a choice, a choice to work and to better ourselves. What if in doing so, we also choose to do what is best for our country? What if with all the things that we balance in our lives, we also consider what we could do for her development? If there was

anything I could contribute to you who is reading this, it might be the idea to always choose the Philippines, just as Rizal has exhibited throughout his life. Rizal sparked change to the Filipinos. He ceaselessly tried to shake the foundation of a corrupt and oppressive rule of tyrants. Indeed times may have changed, we may already be perceived as a sovereign nation. But the grasp of foreign powers are still evident as they try to take our waters and islands. It is a different time but the same issue altogether. Although it is true that we are now past the point where blood needs to be shed, we still have our motherland to protect through various means. Rizal lived his life by always choosing the Philippines by pursuing what is right by his judgement. He became a hero because wherever he went he always thought and lived for his country. At a young age, he was exposed to the injustices of bent individuals. And when he did, he did something about it. We live in a different reality, but I believe we are also able to do something about the world we are living in. Loving the Philippines does not equate to taking a specific side of the coin. After all things said and done, those who are in power now would not be in power forever; but our country will, our country is irreplaceable. Therefore, whatever action we do or not do would forever resonate throughout history. And when all cards are on the table, when those who come after us see what we have done, will they be pleased or in despair? Always choose the Philippines no Be accountable for your country and that Rizal was known for, that in his brilliance to good work. Choose future generations would thank you

matter who is in charge. your people. Be the hero all circumstances he put the Philippines that the for. Be pro-Philippines.

Looking Into The Future How Relevant Will Rizal Be In The Next Decades?

Pagtanaw sa Kinabukasan Gaano Kahalaga Ang Magiging Papel ni Rizal Sa Mga Susunod na Dekada

Ang Kahalagan ni Rizal sa Susunod na Henerasyon Kathryn Ong

“We must discard the belief heroes

our

epoch,

that

that we are incapable of heroes

are

exceptional

beings,

producing the accidents

history who stand above the masses and apart from them.” - Renato Constanino Hindi maipagkakaila kung gaano kahalaga ang mga naging ambag ni Dr. Jose Rizal sa kahihinatnan ng ating inang-bayan. Pagkatapos makalipas ng 125 na taon mula ng pagkamatay ni Rizal, 65 na taon na ring isinasakatuparan ang RA 1425 o Batas Rizal, kung saan isinasaad na dapat pag-aralan sa lahat ng pribado at pampublikong paaralan ang buhay, gawa, at mga akda niya. Ngunit sa pagitan ng higit pa sa isang siglo sa nakaraan at sa kasalukuyan, gaano nga ba kalaki ang mga pagbabago sa ating bansa? Patuloy bang magiging mapanahon si Rizal sa hinaharap? Nakakabahala mang isipin, hindi pa rito nagtatapos ang laban ni Rizal sapagkat nakikita natin ang mga bakas ng problemang dala ng kolonyalismo mula sa kanyang panahon. Tulad ng sabi ni Renato Constantino sa “Veneration without Understanding”, kaya naaangkop

pa rin sa pangkasalukuyang konteksto ang mga pinupuna ni Rizal sa panahon niya ay dahil mula pa noon ang nasasaksihan natin ngayon. Ayon kay Rizal, edukasyon ang magiging susi natin sa pag-asa. Totoo nga naman ito sapagkat siya mismo ay isang edukado na napakahusay sa kanyang pag-aaral. Gayunpaman, nakita niya na hindi nabibigyan ng wastong edukasyon ang mga Pilipino sa pamamahala ng mga Kastila. Kung titignan naman natin ngayon, nakamit na natin ang demokrasya subalit laganap pa din ang kawalan ng edukasyon na para sa lahat. Sa panahon ng pandemya, mas lalo pang nagiging ekslusibo at humihirap para sa mahihirap na matamasa ang kanilang karapatan sa kalidad na edukasyon. Ang masama pa rito, walang balak ang gobyerno bigyan ng prayoridad ang pagsagawa ng ligtas na balik eskwela. Isa pa lamang ito sa mga malalaking problemang hindi malutas-lutas hanggan ngayon kung saan natutulad tayo sa nakaraan. Sa mga nangyayari ngayon, inuudyok ko ang mga mambabasa na maging mapanuri sa ating mga pinuno at bayani. Ang mga problema sa ating lipunan ay nagsisilbing paalala na hindi sapat ang pagtangkilik lamang kay Rizal sapagkat hindi na niya maaayos ang ating mga pangkasalukuyang problema. Sa gayon ay dapat maging bukas ang ating isip nang mahanap natin ang mga modernong bayani na taglay ng bawat isa sa atin.

Kung talagang may natutunan tayo sa pag-aaral kay Rizal, iyon ay dapat

tayong maging aktibo sa pag-aksyon nang malutas natin ang mga kasalukuyang problema ng ating lipunan. Higit pa sa anumang panahon, sa ganitong paraan natin maipapamalas ngayon ang pagmamahal sa bayan. Isang dekada mula ngayon, umaasa akong makikita natin ang legasiya ni Rizal sa pamamagitan ng pag-unlad at pagbabago. Ito ang tunay na makakapagbigay ng hustisya sa pagkamatay ni Rizal.

Ilaw ng Pilipinas Camry Nicole Camihat

ilaw, liwanag, tanglaw sana’y huwag ka munang pumanaw marahil kailangan ka ng bawat Pilipino, mga matatanda at batang katulad ko martir, bayani, nasyonalista ikaw ang ehemplo para sa masa jose rizal ang kanyang pangalan probinsya ng laguna ang pinagmulan lumaki ng may angking talino na nakapag aral sa paaralan ng ateneo hangga’t sa siya’y nakarating sa ibang bansa at pinagtibay ang kanyang muwang maraming masasamang nadanas ngunit hindi tumigil sa pagsunod ng landas na ipaglaban ang kalayaan ng Inang Bayan na nawala ng higit kumulang tatlong dekada ngayon na ako’y nakaramdam ng kalayaan isang tanong lamang ang nasa aking isipan may saysay pa ba ang bayaning pambansa o sadyang unti unting naglalaho na?

ang hiling na hindi pa natutupad sa bansang aking pinagmulan na mabuhay nang mapayapa sa mundong puno ng sama o ilaw, huwag ka munang mawala dahil puno parin ng problema ang Pilipinas na tunay kong minamahal na lagi kong ipinagdarasal kaya nga ibinihagi ng ating bayani ang mga karakter tulad ni Isagani sa mga nobelang kanyang isinulat upang ang ating mga mata ay pilit na mamulat hindi pa nagtatapos ang laban na matagal nang nasa ating sinapupunan kung ako’y tatanungin muli sa tingin ko’y may saysay pa rin ang ating bayani maaring maging mapanganib ang hinaharap ngunit huwag tayong mawalan ng pangarap sapagkat si rizal ang natatanging ilaw na magbibigay kalayaan sa atin balang araw huwag nating kalilimutan nasa sa atin pa rin ang hantungan kaya’t tayo na at maglakbay patungo sa daang ating panghahawakan habambuInspired from: https://www.philstar.com/lifestyle/arts-and-culture/2019/07/28/1938619/rizals-future-todayjose-rizals-ideals-and-their-relevance-youth

Liwanag sa Dilim Chaunne-Ira Ezzlerain Masongsong Sa mga panahon ng kadiliman, kung saan halos wala na makitang daan, siguro’y mahalaga ang isang simbolo— isang alapaap, isang siklab— para maipagpatuloy ang laban. Laban nino? Laban ng sambayanang Pilipino. Oo, mahirap ngunit may isang taong nagpapaalala na kahit hindi tayo perpekto (walang namang kahit sino) — ngunit lahat tayo ay may pagkakataong yumabong, maging sa isip, sa puso, o sa paniniwala— sa ating buong pagkatao.

Kaya naman siguro, kahit mapagod tayo, maaalala natin na kahit tayo’y nasa dilim— may isang taong katulad din natin, mula sa nakaraang panahon na nagsikap din makahanap ng liwanag sa dilim—sumiklab ang kanyang puso, nagkaroon ng silakbo sa kanyang hangarin, at sa kaulanan, nakagawa ng sariling kislap, lablab, apoy— hindi lang para sa kanya, ngunit sa buong bayang tinuturing Ina. Isang liwanag na nagsimula sa panahon noon at patuloy pa rin lumiliyab ngayon at may kapangyarihang tumagal hanggang sa susunod na henerasyon. Hangga’t merong umaasa. Hangga’t tayo’y lumalaban.

Hinaharap at Humaharap Chaunne-Ira Ezzlerain Masongsong Para sa patuloy pag-usad at paghakbang paharap. Para sa patuloy na paglaban at paggawa ng magandang kinabukasan. Para sa patuloy na pag-alala ng sinimulan. At para sa patuloy na pag-asa na mayroong magandang resulta sa hinaharap.

Our Insights

Mga Kaisipan

Vincent Rizal, José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda is a remarkable man. He did not only lit the spark within the Filipino people to fight for their freedom, but he also contributed massively to the literature, science, and entertainment in the Philippines. He did more than enough to deserve to be the National Hero of the Philippines and to be the role model of the Filipino youth.

Reizza Jose Rizal became a great example to the Filipinos because of his great mind, remarkable works, and compassionate heart to help others. His life might have ended in a tragic way but I believe that he still lives in all of us through his literary pieces and by simply being a Filipino in general. It is essential for us to remember that Jose Rizal, as well as the other heroes who have sacrificed their lives for the country, should not be forgotten, and rather continue what they have started — to protect and serve our country at all costs. Getting to know the life and works of Rizal can help supplement our sense of nationalism that would likely benefit our country and its people towards a better and progressive community.

Benhur Sa kabuuan, si Rizal ay isa sa naging haligi ng ating bansa at kasaysayan. Wala tayong kalayaang natatamasa ngayon kung hindi siya nagging matapang laban sa mapang- aping mga espanyol. Siya ang nagbigay ideya noon sa mga PIlipino na posible silang maging malaya kahit na sobrang mas malakas ang sandatahang mayroon ang mga kastila. TInuruan din niya tayo na di kailangan ng patalim o paputok sa paglaban sa masasama, dahil napatunayan niyang mas matimbang ang papel at panulat sa digmaan dahil sa kaniyang pagtatanim ng binhi sa bawat puso ng Pilipino sa kaisipang nasyonalismo.

Tyron Dr. Jose Rizal lived his life for the Filipinos. He has been the model of Filipino nationalism for the l ongest time, and it would be safe to say that he would remain as such for the ages to come. Our country is in desperate need of heroes like Rizal, especially with all the growing uncertainty of these troublesome times. If we truly wish to make our country great and renowned, it is up to us, members of society, to lift ourselves up to what we wish to achieve. Lest we expect that promise will come from other nations; what matters is the desire in each of us that would forge a better tomorrow for our motherland.

Kathryn Nakakatakot isipin na isang dekada, o kaya’y isang siglo mula ngayon, ay si Rizal pa rin lamang ang pinag-aaralan ng kabataan. Dahil ang ibig sabihin nito ay walang bagong bayani ang pumantay sa galing at kontribusyon ni Rizal. Sa aking palagay, ito ang dapat nating iwasang mangyari sapagkat kailangan ng pagbabago para umunlad. Napaalalahan ako ng proyektong ito na marami pa tayong dapat gawin upang tuluyang makalaya at makabangon sa ating nakaraang mga problema.

Eliana Rizal is a notable hero who is way ahead of his time. His writings brought to light the atrocities of the Spaniards against the Filipinos, which are still relevant in our time as we relate this to current societal issues like racial inequality, a flawed justice system, fake news, and attacks on press freedom. Moreover, Rizal is a model for many Filipinos, and we must also have the heart to educate ourselves and uphold our freedom in order to work towards a more uplifted and progressive Philippines.

Camry Though we have had a taste of freedom, it does not mean all Filipinos have experienced it. therefore we are still on the same loophole that has existed way before Rizal’s time. We should use to our advantage the teachings of Rizal, and use that path onto achieving the freedom that we Filipinos deserve after so many years of colonization. Rizal can still be deemed as the light that will guide us to a better future ahead of us.

Sof Years have gone by since the time of Rizal and it is shocking to realize that most of the injustices he wrote about are still present to this day. There is no doubt that Rizal will always be a hero admired by many for the life he gave to his country, but a question we can ask ourselves now is, who will be the next Jose Rizal? I believe that the change that we desire can only be brought by the very people who wish for it. Thus, it is time for Filipinos to realize that now more than ever, we must be the Rizals of our time. In the same way that Rizal inspired the Filipinos then, I know that he will continue to inspire those of our time and the next generations.

Jeis As a person who is not well-versed in the subject of history, the course provided an exceptional opportunity and resources about the life and works of our hero, Jose Rizal. It is truly an experience to learn more about our Philippine history and the things Jose Rizal did for our country. A particular event that influenced or affected me positively is Rizal’s exile in Dapitan. There is a lesson that we can learn from Rizal’s experience, and it is to keep moving forward. He didn’t sulk into despair and approach this negative experience with light. He continued to do good things for his countrymen, given the lack of resources and freedom. I hope that we all can apply the values and learnings from the life of Jose Rizal, even if it is a simple one. History is truly a fascinating subject; as Marcus Garvey once said, “A people without the knowledge of their

Gio Jose Rizal is one of the many people who fought for our freedom and we wouldn’t be how we are today without them. Rizal’s life and works provided many valuable lessons and it amazes me how even after many years, he still lives on through his literary works and through all of us. Rizal was indeed way ahead of his time and the injustices he faced before are still present, in a way, today. We can all learn a lot about the history of our country through reading and understanding about Rizal and his works and hopefully be awakened to the social issues that are present today. Rizal is truly an inspiration and a true national hero and this course made me have a deeper understanding of him, his works and his life.

Storm At first, I was doubting on whether or not Rizal should be adored and praised as our national hero, but now I understand. From reading all of my groupmates’ literature pieces, essays, articles, and even on seeing their artworks— I gained not only one or two persepectives, but at eleven, and I am in awe of what they created. I understand now that we, Filipinos, need something to hold onto— a symbol, to keep on fighting for our country and ourselves. And in studying the life and works of Rizal, how relevant and timely he is— I see now how important his essence is yesterday, today, and tomorrow.

Renzel Raphael

To know ourselves is to free ourselves; Rizal is an example.