Republic Act No. 1425 Overview

Republic Act No. 1425 - Why Study About Rizal?

• This law mandates the inclusion of courses on Dr. Jose Rizal, particularly his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, in all public and private schools.
• It emphasizes the need for rededication to the ideals of freedom and nationalism.
• It encourages students to learn about Rizal's life and writings as sources of patriotism.
• It highlights the importance of developing moral character, personal discipline, and civic conscience.
• The law also requires schools to keep copies of Rizal's works and biographies in their libraries.

Notable Persons Who Tried to Block Its Approval

• Sen. Decoroso Rosales (brother of Archbishop Rosales)
• Francisco “Soc” Rodrigo (President of Catholic Action of the Philippines)
• Sen. Mariano Cuenco (brother of Archbishop Cuenco)
• Jesus Paredes (radio commentator)
• Fr. Ensure

Saturnina Rizal (1850-1913)

• Eldest child of the Rizal-Alonzo marriage.
• Married Manuel Timoteo Hidalgo of Tanauan, Batangas.

Paciano Rizal (1851-1930)

• Only brother of Jose Rizal.
• Studied at San Jose College in Manila; became a farmer and later a general of the Philippine Revolution.

Narcisa Rizal (1852-1939)

• Third child.
• Married Antonio Lopez at Morong, Rizal.
• Teacher and musician.

Olympia Rizal (1855-1887)

• Fourth child.
• Married Silvestre Ubaldo.
• Died in 1887 from childbirth.

Birth & Early Childhood in Calamba, Laguna

• Jose Rizal's mother, Teodora Alonso, was a well-educated woman.
• Jose Rizal was born on June 19, 1861 in Calamba.
• As a child, he was known to be imaginative and observant.
• He traveled with his father to Manila and Antipolo.
• His first trip on the lake left a lasting impression on him.
• He was exposed to the beauty of the Philippine landscape and the cultural richness of Manila.

Early Schooling in Biñan

• Jose Rizal’s first teacher, a young man with “a sharp nose and a body slightly bent forward”, was described as strict.
• He had a vivid imagination and sense of observation.
• He started school at the age of seven.
• At the age of nine he began his journey to Biñan to continue his studies.
• His trip took him to Antipolo, where he prayed to the Virgin of Peace and Good Voyage.
• His trip allowed him to experience the beauty of the Pasig River and the towns of Cainta and Taytay.
• He traveled with his brother, Paciano, and visited his sister, Saturnina, who was then a boarding student.
• He was initially bullied by his classmates, but his intelligence and wit earned him respect and friendship.
• Jose Rizal’s experiences at a young age shaped his perspective and contributed to his development as a writer and a nationalist.

Interpretations of Jose Rizal's Work

• Nationalism and Patriotism: Seen as champion of Filipino identity and independence, advocating for a unified and strong Philippines.
• Education and Social Reform: Emphasizes importance of education for national progress and societal change, tackling issues like poverty, injustice, and inequality.
• Human Rights and Social Justice: Advocates for the rights and dignity of individuals, advocating for fair treatment and equality.
• Cultural Identity: Interpreted as celebration of Filipino culture, folklore, and traditions, contributing to the development of a distinct national identity
• Liberalism: Ideas are seen as influenced by philosophical liberalism, promoting principles of democracy, individual freedom, and the rule of law.
• Pacifism: Rizal's commitment to peaceful resistance and advocating for dialogue over violence, opposing oppressive regimes.

Explore the significance of Republic Act No. 1425, which mandates the study of Dr. Jose Rizal's works in Philippine education. This quiz covers the law's implications for nationalism, patriotism, and moral development in students. Discover the notable individuals who opposed the law and learn about Saturnina Rizal's contributions.