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The Catalyst Effect of Rizal's Writings: Shaping a New Paradigm for the Philippine Society University of Mindanao – Tagum College Tagum City, Davao del Norte Department of Engineering Education BESINAN,...

The Catalyst Effect of Rizal's Writings: Shaping a New Paradigm for the Philippine Society University of Mindanao – Tagum College Tagum City, Davao del Norte Department of Engineering Education BESINAN, JHUREX B. ERMILA, ANDREA S. LANGUIDO FRANCO J. LASTIMOSO, YHUO WEENN A. NANCA, KIARA ALYXSA L. ORTEGA, NICKOS R. PANGANORON, JAMES T. PIKITAN, JHON PAULO A. SUPANGHARI, JUDEVINE S. NOVEMBER 2024  Introduction José Rizal was an important figure in Philippine history. He is remembered as a national hero but also as an accomplished writer whose works have much to do with the fight for the country's independence. A research study from the United States found that José Rizal's writings, especially when he was in Europe, were very important in helping Filipinos become aware of their national identity and in criticizing colonial rule. Rizal clearly described social problems that connected with Filipinos and attracted attention from people around the world, opposing colonial stories and supporting human rights. Through his works, Rizal helped the Filipinos to feel a strong sense of identity and purpose. He inspired generations to come to fight for independence and justice. This has made him a national hero whose impact goes beyond the borders of the Philippines (Smith, 2023). Even though students in the Philippines learn about patriotism and nationalism, lessons about Jose Rizal's life and work often feel boring and unimportant. According to DeStephano (2015), Rizal devoted himself passionately in the Philippines and inspire fellow Filipinos to work for the common good and to love their country. Through his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, Rizal addresses issues, particularly exposing the injustices of Spanish colonial rule and calling for social reforms to give the Filipino people greater power. These works break the time barriers and contribute much to molding Philippine national identity. Those also inspire Filipinos for struggling for social justice as well as fundamental change. Literary contributions which transcended time played significant roles in the evolution of national identity of the Philippines and inspired that country's people towards struggling for social justice and fundamental changes. However, that the masterpieces of Rizal, though timeless, there is lack of awareness as to the true message among the Filipino public.  According to the study conducted by Borla (2023) from Far Eastern University that varied practices of Filipino literature are not highlighted much in modern educational settings by reason of the attention is focuses on the Western literary works. This raises the question about the impact on national consciousness because perhaps books must be read to understand who one is. These figures raise the question of how much foreign narratives have influenced Filipino culture, which may explain why it is harder to respect indigenous viewpoints and history of the Philippines. The disconnect between Jose Rizal's ideals and the state of writing and national consciousness as we sledge through the complex 21st century is, therefore, quite evident. Society often focuses on foreign trends and forgets about nativity, which hid Rizal's call for social justice, pride, and education. José Rizal's writings, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, were very significant in crafting an alternative structure of new paradigm for Philippine society. Based on the study of Paciente (2024), all municipalities, including Tagum City, people or students must have a deep understanding of the significant change induced by Dr. José Rizal's works in the socio-political and cultural context of the Philippines. As generation passes by, this analysis significantly attempts to address how his masterpieces acted as transformers for the society at large, motivating ideals of education, integrity, and reform that yielded the Filipino masses to revolution and self- governance. Additionally, this paper considers ways through which ideas of Rizal found inspiration into social factions, and theoretical concepts that the ideas evoked subsequently resulted in some material and positive contribution in constructing a national identity. In this regard, this exploration underlines the legacy of Rizal as a transformative figure whose vision continues to influence Philippine society.  Discussion José Rizal, a Philippine polymath, has been known to be a visionary whose writings had far-reaching social and political impacts on the Philippines late in the 19th century (Ravin, 2001). Rizal's works—both novels and essay writings—began a shift in paradigm for Philippine society. The national identity sense of late 19th-century Filipinos was formed to greater extents by the works of Dr. José Rizal, especially his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. These works exposed, to the Filipino people, the facts of colonial oppression: how the inequality and injustice, corruption, and abuse pervasive among colonizers were upheld by the Church and the Spanish colonial government (Aguilar, 2018). Rizal used compelling narratives vividly to paint for the informed class a picture of very real societal issues that needed reform and inspired the masses to think of a better future. Moreover, within the support of the Republic Act 1425, also known as the Rizal Law. The implementation of this law mandated the study of Jose Rizal’s life and work, particularly, the Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. Some might question the significance of this act, but Jose P. Laurel emphasizes that Jose Rizal is the father of Philippine nationalism and has significantly contributed to the nation’s current situation (Evasco, 2024). With this, it is crucial for students to comprehend the underlying reasons for undertaking the Rizal course in college to know its significance. José Rizal's novels, Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891), very crucially shaped the Filipino identity in changing the society during Spanish colonization. Literally translated, Noli Me Tangere means "Touch Me Not." This 1887 publication came in the form of criticism toward the injustices done by the Spanish colonial government and clergy in Philippine society. Since the story centered around Crisostomo Ibarra's exposures to corruption, hypocrisy, and abuse, it quickly caught the attention of the Filipino intelligentsia and a wider populace that faced dissatisfaction and eventually matured into revolutionary fervor. Indeed, this colorful description of class suffering and the sense for justice built a very profound national consciousness among the people with the aim of inviting every Filipino to recognize a battle against oppression. The book can also incite all Filipinos to form union in claiming rights and winning liberties, therefore fostering national patriotism (Sinaguinan, 2018). El Filibusterismo, in 1891, Rizal takes a more brazen approach and thus moves from desiring changes to demanding revolution. The character Ibarra in the novel become vengeful Simoun, resorting to revolution for freedom. The novels encouraged readers to rethink non-violent reform and positive action, influencing the minds of revolutionaries to fight for independence. Additionally, Rizal highlight in this novel is to inspire Filipinos to search for change through peaceful means and not through wars. It also emphasizes the importance of education for transformation (Sinaguinan, 2018). Furthermore, Rizal’s writings formed a new paradigm for Filipino society, fostering nationalism, social justice, and reform. They exposed the injustices and abuses of colonialism and created a shared hope for reform. More than criticism, Rizal's works brought Filipinos together across regions and tribes and served as the ideological basis of the Philippine Revolution. Even leaders like Andrés Bonifacio utilized this reawakening for armed struggle for independence (Alcazar, 2015). Through his novels, Rizal promoted education, civic engagement, and moral integrity. He believed education was the cornerstone of societal progress and a remedy for tyranny. In his book ‘Instruction’, Rizal emphasized that the neglect by Spanish authorities, not Filipino indolence, was the root of the nation’s backwardness. He stated that education would help people grow and encourage them to fight against unfairness by thinking critically and being responsible citizens (Cimene et al., 2023). His works also investigated the flaws of society. He said that colonial rule was continued because of some partnership between the colonizers and the Filipino elite. His narratives urged Filipinos to introspect, value integrity, and work toward unity, emphasizing self-awareness and resilience (Borla, 2023). Internationally, Rizal’s writings expanded the dialogue on human rights, sovereignty, and freedom. By portraying the universal struggles of colonized peoples, Rizal influenced global perspectives on resistance and power dynamics. His legacy will keep inspiring movements for social justice and national pride around the world (Smith, 2023). Filipino literature should be given more importance over time as schools are more focusing on Western literary traditions instead of the numerous Filipino literatures. Knowing our literary history is a cultural duty and important for a nation that wants to grow as we try to understand the complicated world we live in (Borla, 2023). The books of Rizal made Filipinos understand themselves in a different perspective. They encouraged many to picture a just and equal society. Thus, pushing learning and fighting evils is a lesson that has importance, motivating each succeeding generation to hold on to what this great Filipino valued; his works, a masterpiece of a national hero who sparked social change and awareness regarding the country. The Dr. José Rizal writings have a huge impact on Philippine history as they promote social change and national awareness (Zaide & Zaide, 1999; Constantino, 1975).  Analysis A titan of Philippine history, Jose Rizal was essential to social change and the development of a sense of national identity. His writings, especially "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," highlighted the ills and injustice of Spanish rule. As a result of Rizal's stinging attacks on the government, church, and social mores, Filipinos became enlightened of their situation. That instilled hope and a sort of national awareness in citizens to question the harsh systems and strive for change and improvement. Rizal’s literary works, particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, exposed the injustice of Spanish colonial rule, corruption, inequality, and abuse. These novels revealed the social evils of Spanish subjugation, encouraging Filipinos to unite for rights, freedom, and nationalism. They advocated non-violent reform and positive action, inspiring Filipinos to search for peaceful ways to achieve change. In forming the Filipino identity, his concept of a free, fair, and united Philippines inspired the people to pursue justice and equality. Aside from his writings, Rizal played a significant role in building the Filipino identity, supporting reform and education. He thought that education is the path to freedom. It opens people's eyes to questioning the norm, thinking, and questioning more. The idea of having a bright and forward-thinking society made many Filipinos hope for better government and join in with community growth. Rizal’s unshakable dedication to nonviolent reform made him a beacon of hope and a source of inspiration.  The impact of Rizal extends beyond his martyrdom. Generations of Filipinos have drawn inspiration from his works, which remain a constant reminder of the nation's rich cultural heritage, resilience, and tenacity. His unwavering belief in the transformative power of the written word laid the groundwork for an independent Filipino nation by promoting social justice, education, and national cohesion. Rizal’s influence is institutionalized in Republic Act No. 1425, or the Rizal Law, enacted in 1956. This law mandates the teaching of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo in schools to instill values of patriotism, social consciousness, and national identity. While opposed by the Catholic Church for Rizal’s anti-clerical views, the law countered colonial mentality and united the post-colonial Philippines. Rizal’s works remain relevant in addressing modern issues such as corruption, inequality, and justice. Beyond Philippine borders, Rizal’s ideas have influenced global discussions on human rights, sovereignty, and freedom. His writings also shaped perceptions of resistance and power relations worldwide, demonstrating his lasting historical significance. His works emphasized the importance of maintaining a Filipino identity, even amidst external influences, such as the impact of Western literature like Harriet Beecher Stowe’s Uncle Tom’s Cabin, which mirrored similar themes in Rizal’s work. Despite his relevance, Rizal’s works are often underappreciated in modern Philippine education, where foreign literature sometimes receives more attention. To ensure Rizal’s teachings remain impactful, education should adopt more engaging approaches, such as discussions, applications, and creative activities like community forums, public art, films, and interactive resources. These initiatives can make Rizal’s ideas more accessible and relatable to contemporary Filipinos.  This is even the dream of an honest, just, and unified Philippines where corruption, inequality, and social vices will still find existence. His legacy impels every Filipino to stand guard and fight oppression and contribute towards the building of a much better country. The momentous work he initiated toward education, social justice, and national awareness inspires his country and the whole world. References: Aguilar, K. (2018). Rethinking the Filipino: Uncovering identity and resistance in José Rizal's Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo. eScholarship, University of California. Retrieved from https://escholarship.org/uc/item/4j11p6c1 Alcazar, R. A. (2015). José Rizal and the emergence of a Filipino national consciousness. Philippine Studies, 63(3), 235-248. Retrieved from https://philippinestudies.net/files/journals/1/articles/2732/public/2732-2730-1- PB.pdf Borla, A. (2023). Rizal in the 21st Century: The Influence of His Literary Works. 10.13140/RG.2.2.10889.21601. Cimen, F. T., Du, E., & Alonsabe, O. (2023). Navigating the Educational Landscape: Philosophy, Trends, and Issues in the Philippines. Constantino, R. (1975). The Philippines: A Past Revisited. Tala Publishing. DeStephano, M. (2015). Jose Rizal, the Quest for Filipino Independence, and the Search for Ultimate Reality and Meaning. UTP Journals 4. https://www.utpjournals.press/doi/pdf/10.3138/uram.34.1-2.113 Evasco, M. E. (2024). Rizal's Life in Philippine History: Awakening Filipino Nationalism for the 21st Century. 10.13140/RG.2.2.33077.28646. Paciente, D. (2024). Dr. Jose Rizal's "The Social Cancer" and "Reign of Greed". Owlcation. Retrieved from https://owlcation.com/humanities/noli-me-tangere- and-el-filibusterismo Ravin, T. (2001). José Rizal: Philippine national hero and ophthalmologist. Archives of ophthalmology. 119. 280-4. Sinaguinan, M. (2018). Epistemological shifts in Rizal's Noli me tangere and El filibusterismo: Language, identity, and resistance. University of California, Irvine. Retrieved from https://core.humanities.uci.edu/wp content/uploads/2018/11/SINAGUINAN_UROP2018.pdf Smith, J. (2023). Bridging Cultures: José Rizal, His Legacy, and the Quest for Independence. LinkedIn. https://www.linkedin.com/pulse/bridging-cultures- jos%C3%A9-rizal-his-legacy-quest-jordan-smith-cfe-emba Zaide, G. F., & Zaide, S. M. (1999). A History of the Filipino People. All-Nations Publishing Co., Inc.