Rizal Law and Nationalism in the Philippines

Rizal Law (RA 1425)

• Mandates teaching the life, works, and writings of Jose Rizal in all educational institutions in the Philippines.
• Aims to instill nationalism among students during a time of identity threat.

Historical Context

• Post-World War II Philippines faced numerous recovery challenges.
• Prominent figures advocated for measures to foster nationalism among the youth.
• Sen. Claro M. Recto was a key proponent of the Rizal Bill, believing it essential for teaching youth to stand up for their country.

Opposition to the Rizal Bill

• The Catholic Church strongly opposed the bill, accusing Recto of communism and anti-Catholic sentiments.
• The Church feared that mandating readings of Rizal's novels would infringe on freedom of conscience and religion.
• Significant opponents included:
  • Fr. Jesus Cavanna, arguing the novels misinterpreted current Philippine conditions.
  • Jesus Paredes from Radio Veritas, claiming the novels endangered Catholics’ salvation.
• Organizations opposing the bill included:
  • Catholic Action of the Philippines
  • Congregation of the Mission
  • Knights of Columbus
  • Catholic Teachers Guild

Support for the Rizal Bill

• Supporters included:
  • Veteranos de la Revolucion
  • Alagad ni Rizal
  • Freemasons
  • Knights of Rizal
• A pastoral letter from Archbishop Rufino Santos warned that compulsory reading could affect Catholic students, creating public opposition.
• Recto argued that limiting Rizal's works would erase his legacy and undermine national identity.

Legislative Outcome

• On May 12, 1956, the bill was unanimously approved, incorporating a compromise for the use of expurgated versions of Rizal's novels.
• College students would retain the option to read unexpurgated versions of the texts.
• The final law also mandated the inclusion of Rizal's other works in the curriculum.

Importance of Studying Rizal

• Nationalism is shaped by culture, history, language, religion, and territory.
• Benedict Anderson defined the nation as an "imagined community," demonstrating a collective identity despite diversity.
• Rizal's works serve as foundational texts of Philippine nationalism, exposing the ills of Spanish colonial rule.

Rizal's Impact on Nationalism

• Both "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" address social, political, and cultural issues, urging Filipinos to resist colonization.
• Rizal's literature portrayed varied Filipino identities, from colonial mentality to fervent nationalists.
• His novels fueled the anti-colonial movement and inspired future generations.

Rizal in the 19th Century Context

• Born during the decline of Spanish colonial power, Rizal's life was influenced by emerging national consciousness among Filipinos.
• He was the first to use "Filipino" to unify all inhabitants, transcending ethnic divisions.
• The Industrial Revolution affected the Philippines, introducing new technologies but benefiting a small wealthy elite.

Political Changes Under Spanish Rule

• Gov. Gen. Rafael Izquierdo's harsh policies contrasted with earlier liberal reforms.
• The Cavite Mutiny of 1872, due to oppressive policies, led to significant consequences, including the execution of the Gomburza priests, which motivated Filipino nationalists.
• Rizal dedicated "El Filibusterismo" to the martyrdom of these priests, highlighting their importance in the movement for independence.

Rizal's Legacy

• Rizal sought to promote the Philippines as a country of writers and intellectuals, challenging racial discrimination and advocating for reform.
• His progressive ideas contributed to the awakening of national consciousness, ultimately leading to the Philippine Revolution of 1896.