Rizal's Childhood and Time in Biñan

Study Notes

Rizal showed talent in various artistic fields including sketching, painting, sculpture, and literature from a young age.
His mother, Doña Teodora, was arrested for alleged complicity in the attempted murder of his uncle's wife, leading to a loss of trust in friendship and fellowmen for young Rizal.
He witnessed the martyrdom of Gomburza, which fueled his desire to fight for the oppressed Filipinos.
Rizal's first teacher was his mother, followed by Maestro Celestino, Maestro Lucas Padua, and Leon Monroy.
He grew up detached from the common people, lacking understanding of their needs and aspirations.

Rizal moved to Biñan with his brother, Paciano, to continue his studies.
He felt homesick, missing his mother and sisters.
At the village school, he excelled in Latin, Spanish and other subjects, surpassing his classmates.
He became involved in school brawls due to jealousy from older classmates, often enduring corporal punishment.
This experience influenced his later work, Noli Me Tangere, where he criticizes corporal punishment.
Rizal led a disciplined and systematic life in Biñan.

The opening of the Philippines to foreign trade led to the prosperity of mestisos and the ruling elite, contributing to the rise of a middle class.
European-educated Filipinos became disillusioned with Spanish rule.

A proponent of democratic and liberal governance, he encouraged reformists and abolished censorship of the press.
He established reform commissions and allowed open discussion of freedom and democracy.
He inspired Filipino clergy to work for the Filipinization of parishes.
However, he secretly maintained a list of potential troublemakers, including those advocating reforms.

On January 20, 1872, a mutiny erupted among Filipino soldiers in Cavite, led by Sergeant La Madrid.
The mutiny was triggered by increased taxes and forced labor imposed by Governor-General Izquerdo.

Fathers Jose Burgos, Mariano Gomes, and Jacinto Zamora were executed by garrote for alleged complicity in the Cavite Mutiny.
They are considered martyrs for their fight for Philippine freedom.

Although only 11 years old at the time, Rizal was deeply affected by the Gomburza execution.
This event solidified his commitment to fighting Spanish oppression and vindicating the victims.

Calamba was a naturally rich town, situated between Laguna Bay and Mt. Makiling.
The town was dominated by Dominican Friars.
However, the town provided Rizal with inspiration and a platform to further develop his artistic talents.

Leonor Rivera was considered his "great love," a cousin with whom he had a deep and lasting relationship.
He met his first love, Segunda Katigbak, during his teenage years.
He wrote a poem for Consuelo Ortiga y Rey, expressing his admiration for her.
He had a brief but passionate relationship with O-Sei-San, a Japanese woman he met in Japan.
He shared a deep affection for Gertrude Beckett, a British woman he met in London.
He had a strong relationship with Suzanne Jacoby, a Belgian woman whom he met in Brussels.
Josephine Bracken was his last companion and stayed by his side until his execution.

Enacted on June 12, 1956 by President Ramon Magsaysay, this law mandates the teaching of Rizal's life, works, and writings in all Philippine schools.
Senator Jose P. Laurel highlighted Rizal's role in establishing Filipino nationality and believed studying Rizal's works would equip Filipino youth with confidence, direction, and courage.

The original Rizal Bill was introduced on April 23, 1956, by Senator Claro M. Recto.
He advocated for the bill's adoption, defending it against opposition from the Catholic Church.

The Church opposed the Rizal Bill, arguing it would undermine religious freedom and discourage reproduction and reading of Rizal's works, particularly Noli Me Tangere.