Rizal's First Homecoming and Trips in East Asia PDF, October 10, 2024

Group 2 Rizal' First Homecoming and Trips in East Asia October 10, 2024 1. Introduction (5-7 minutes) [Sacay] Goal: Set the stage by introducing José Rizal and the historical context of his homecoming and travels. Brief Background on J...

Group 2 Rizal' First Homecoming and Trips in East Asia October 10, 2024 1. Introduction (5-7 minutes) [Sacay] Goal: Set the stage by introducing José Rizal and the historical context of his homecoming and travels. Brief Background on José Rizal: ○ Born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Rizal was a polymath, nationalist, and reformist. ○ He is known for his novels Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo, which exposed the abuses of the Spanish colonial government and the friars in the Philippines. ○ Rizal’s work fueled the Filipino nationalist movement and played a crucial role in the fight for independence. Historical Context: ○ Rizal left the Philippines in 1882 to study in Europe, where he wrote Noli Me Tángere. ○ His first homecoming in 1887 came after the publication of Noli, a novel that challenged the Spanish regime. He traveled to East Asia in 1888, seeking refuge from the Spanish authorities who were growing more suspicious of his activities. ○ These travels were pivotal in shaping Rizal’s vision for reform and his strategic approach to advocating for the Philippines’ freedom. Outline of the Report: ○ Rizal’s motivation for coming home. ○ His arrival in Manila and Calamba. ○ The reception of Noli Me Tángere. ○ His role as a public health advocate and his decision to leave. 2. Rizal’s First Homecoming (August 1887) (15-18 minutes) a. Rizal’s Motivation for Coming Home (3-5 minutes) [Sacay] Content: After five years of studying and writing in Europe, José Rizal returned to the Philippines in August 1887 for three primary reasons: 1. His family’s suffering under Spanish authorities: Rizal’s family was experiencing increasing pressure from the Spanish government, especially after the publication of Noli Me Tángere. His family’s land in Calamba was also embroiled in a rent dispute with the Dominicans, and they were being targeted as a result of Rizal's controversial ideas. 2. To gauge the reception of Noli Me Tángere: Rizal wanted to see firsthand how the Filipino people and Spanish authorities reacted to his novel, which exposed the injustices and abuses in colonial society, particularly by the friars. 3. To engage with the Filipino reform movement: He sought to align himself with Filipino reformists like Marcelo H. del Pilar and Graciano López Jaena, and  strengthen the movement pushing for greater representation and reforms under Spanish rule. Interactive Element: Ask the audience: What risks do you think Rizal faced by returning to the Philippines?Encourage them to reflect on the fact that Rizal's writings, especially Noli Me Tángere, were already labeled subversive, and his return put both himself and his family in potential danger of arrest, persecution, or worse. Discuss how returning to a hostile environment after publishing such a critical work put him at serious personal risk. b. Arrival in Manila and Calamba (5-7 minutes) [Sacay] Content: On August 5, 1887, Rizal arrived in Manila, after years in Europe. His arrival was met with a warm welcome from the local population, particularly the Filipino intelligentsia and reformist circles. They admired Rizal for his courage and the impact of his novel, which had stirred nationalistic feelings among Filipinos. However, Rizal’s return did not go unnoticed by the Spanish authorities. Governor-General Emilio Terrero had received complaints from the Spanish clergy and officials, particularly about Noli Me Tángere. The novel had caused an uproar for its portrayal of the oppressive nature of the colonial government and the Catholic Church’s abuses of power. Governor-General Terrero summoned Rizal to the Malacañang Palace for a private meeting. Terrero had concerns about the impact of the novel and its potential to incite rebellion. However, Rizal clarified that his intention was not to promote revolution, but to advocate for reforms to improve the lives of Filipinos. He assured Terrero that Noli Me Tángere was aimed at exposing societal ills for the sake of reform, not rebellion. Despite Rizal’s explanation, tensions remained high. The friars were furious and called for his immediate arrest, but Terrero was sympathetic and instead assigned a bodyguard to protect Rizal from any harm that might come from the enraged clergy. Visual Aid: Display a historical map of the Philippines during the 1880s to provide geographical context for Rizal’s travels and the power dynamics in the country at the time. Show images of Rizal’s home in Calamba, which would help illustrate his background and connection to the struggle against the friars. c. Reception of Noli Me Tángere (3-4 minutes) [Sacay] Content: Noli Me Tángere, published in 1887, had a profound impact on both Filipinos and Spanish authorities. It was welcomed by many Filipinos, especially the Filipino intellectual elite, who saw in it a brave critique of the injustices of Spanish colonial rule. The novel gave voice to their frustrations and helped fuel the growing sentiment for national reform and eventual independence. However, Noli Me Tángere was severely criticized by the Spanish friars and government officials, who saw the novel as an attack on their authority and a threat to the stability of Spanish rule in the Philippines. The book’s depiction of the hypocrisy and corruption within the Church, particularly in the character of Father  Dámaso, sparked outrage among the clergy. They lobbied for the book to be banned, and some even called for Rizal’s arrest. Quote from Rizal’s letters: During this time, Rizal wrote in his letters about his deep concerns regarding the reaction of the Spanish authorities. In one letter, he expressed: “I have said what I must, and whether they will hate or love me for it, my duty as a son of my country has been fulfilled.” Engagement: Ask the audience if they’ve read Noli Me Tángere and invite them to share their thoughts on its key themes. Highlight themes such as: Social injustice (as seen in the struggles of peasants and the oppression of the Filipino middle class). Clerical abuses (depicted through the actions of characters like Father Dámaso). The need for reform (Rizal’s call for peaceful change rather than violent revolution). Encourage a brief discussion about how these themes resonate with today’s issues and how the novel remains relevant in modern Philippine society. d. Rizal as a Public Health Advocate and Decision to Leave (4-5 minutes) [Sacay] Content: Rizal’s Medical Work in Calamba: During his time in Calamba, Rizal not only engaged in social and political reform but also contributed significantly to public health. As a trained ophthalmologist, Rizal performed surgeries and treated patients. One of his most personal and important cases was that of his mother, Teodora Alonso, who was suffering from cataracts. Rizal successfully operated on her, restoring her eyesight, which earned him immense gratitude and respect from both his family and the local community. ○ Public Health Campaigns: In addition to his work as an eye doctor, Rizal led public health campaigns in Calamba, emphasizing sanitation and preventative care. He advocated for better living conditions, particularly for the poor, and used his knowledge of modern medicine to promote healthier practices in the community. His efforts made him a beloved figure, especially among the locals who saw him as not just a political figure, but a compassionate doctor committed to the welfare of his fellow Filipinos. Despite his popularity and success as a physician, Rizal’s increasing prominence as a reformist leader drew the attention and suspicion of the Spanish authorities. His medical work and good standing in the community did little to protect him from the growing tensions with the government and the Catholic Church, both of which were becoming increasingly alarmed by the influence he was gaining. Danger to His Family: As Rizal’s fame and influence grew, so did the threats to his family. The Spanish friars in Calamba, particularly the Dominican landlords, were deeply angered by Noli Me Tángere and targeted Rizal’s family as a way to pressure him. The Alonso family was embroiled in a land dispute with the Dominicans, and Rizal’s open criticism of the friars only worsened their situation. Spanish authorities began harassing and persecuting his family, and his presence in the Philippines  became a direct danger to them. Rizal quickly realized that his continued stay in the Philippines would only escalate the harassment his family was facing. With Governor-General Terrero unable to offer long-term protection, and the friars pressing for his arrest, Rizal made the difficult decision to leave the Philippines for the safety of both his family and himself. Decision to Leave: On February 3, 1888, Rizal quietly departed from the Philippines, boarding a ship bound for Hong Kong. His departure was a strategic move, as he believed he could do more for the Philippine cause by continuing his work from abroad rather than risking imprisonment or death at home. Though this decision weighed heavily on him, he recognized that his presence in the Philippines was putting his family and reform efforts at greater risk. Rizal’s exile marked a new phase in his fight for reform, as he shifted his focus to writing and organizing the movement from overseas. Closing Thought: Ask your audience: What do you think Rizal’s next move should be? Considering the growing tensions between Rizal and the colonial government, and knowing that his mission for reform was far from over, this question encourages the audience to reflect on the potential strategies Rizal could employ from abroad. Should he continue writing? Should he ally with other reformists and revolutionaries? What path would best support his goals for the Philippines? This will lead into discussions about his later work in Hong Kong, Japan, and Europe, and how these experiences continued to shape his vision for his country’s freedom. 3. Rizal’s Travels in East Asia (February 1888) (25-28 minutes) a. Hong Kong (6-8 minutes) [Sacay] Content: Rizal arrived in Hong Kong on February 8, 1888, after leaving the Philippines. His decision to go there was strategic, as Hong Kong at the time was a British colony, offering a degree of freedom and protection from Spanish influence. For many Filipinos, Hong Kong had become a safe haven, particularly for those escaping persecution by Spanish authorities. Safe Haven for Filipinos: The city became a hub for Filipino expatriates, reformists, and intellectuals, many of whom were involved in the Propaganda Movement. These expatriates were able to continue their advocacy for reforms and independence without the immediate threat of arrest or execution that they faced in the Philippines. Rizal’s Work as an Ophthalmologist: While in Hong Kong, Rizal resumed his work as a doctor, specifically as an ophthalmologist. He was highly respected for his medical skills, and during his time there, he treated patients from various backgrounds. This work not only supported him financially but also allowed him to gain the respect of the local community, both Filipino and foreign. Meetings with Filipino Expatriates: Rizal took advantage of his time in Hong Kong to meet with Filipino expatriates. These meetings were essential for strengthening the reformist movement abroad. The expatriate community in Hong Kong had a unique perspective on the Philippine situation, and many were involved in plotting the next steps for the movement. Liberal Atmosphere of Hong Kong: Rizal was also struck by the relatively liberal atmosphere in Hong Kong compared to the oppressive conditions in the  Philippines. In his letters, he noted how freedom of speech and presswere more tolerated under British rule. This contrast deepened his resolve to continue fighting for similar freedoms in the Philippines, which was still under strict Spanish colonial rule. Visual Aid: Use historical photos or illustrations of 19th-century Hong Kong to show what the city looked like during Rizal’s stay. Highlight key locations such as the central district or the harbor, which were bustling centers of commerce and migration at the time. Show how the mix of cultures—British, Chinese, and Filipino—made Hong Kong a vibrant but politically distinct place. Engagement: Invite the audience to reflect on what Rizal might have felt seeing fellow Filipinos living more freely in a foreign land. Pose the question: How do you think this affected his view of the Philippines under Spanish rule?Encourage them to consider the emotional impact of witnessing Filipinos who could pursue careers, engage in political discourse, and live without the constant threat of repression. b. Japan and the Encounter with O-Sei-San (10-12 minutes) Lumba Content: Explore Rizal’s journey to Yokohama, Japan on February 28, 1888. On February 28, 1888, José Rizal arrived in Yokohama, Japan. This leg of his journey was crucial in shaping his thoughts on culture, modernity, and personal values. At this point, Rizal was in the midst of his travels across Asia and Europe, seeking to broaden his perspective on governance, society, and progress as he pursued reforms for the Philippines. In addition to his admiration for Japan, Rizal also found personal fulfillment during his stay. It was here that he met Seiko Usui, more affectionately known to him as O-Sei-San. Seiko was a cultured and well-educated woman, and Rizal quickly developed deep feelings for her. Their relationship was one of mutual respect, warmth, and intellectual connection, offering Rizal both companionship and emotional solace during his travels. Rizal was torn between his love for O-Sei-San and his sense of duty to the Philippines. His letters reflect this inner conflict. In one letter, Rizal described Seiko as a woman of grace and beauty, writing, “Her name is Seiko Usui, a descendant of samurais, simple, cultured, well-mannered, and affectionate.” Yet, despite these feelings, he knew he could not stay in Japan, as his mission for the Philippines took precedence. Rizal ultimately chose to leave, sacrificing his personal happiness for his larger goal of helping his country. This relationship with O-Sei-San was not merely a romantic episode in Rizal’s life; it highlighted his struggle between personal desires and the greater good. The emotional sacrifice he made by leaving Seiko behind was an expression of his unwavering commitment to his ideals of freedom and national reform. Yet, despite his love for Seiko, Rizal remained resolute in his mission. He acknowledged the inner turmoil he faced when he said: “I have found peace in her company, but my duty calls me back to my people. How difficult it is to leave behind someone who has touched my heart, but my love for my country is greater than my love for myself.”  These quotes not only capture his feelings for O-Sei-San but also the weight of his duty to his homeland, making his decision to leave Japan one of personal sacrifice for a higher cause. Visual Aid: Discussion Prompt: Would he have been able to achieve the same impact for the Philippines if he had chosen to stay in Japan and pursue personal happiness instead? c. Short Visit to the United States (April 1888) (7-8 minutes) After leaving Japan, Rizal made a brief stop in the United States in April 1888. His impressions of the country were mixed. He was fascinated by the economic progress and technological advancements he saw, particularly in San Francisco and New York City. He admired how quickly the U.S. had grown into an economic powerhouse, but his observations went beyond admiration. Impressions of San Francisco and New York: In San Francisco, Rizal noticed the efficiency of the port city, which served as a gateway for trade and immigration. In New York, he marveled at the city's rapid industrialization and the visible signs of wealth. These cities represented the American dream of prosperity, innovation, and opportunity, something he hoped the Philippines could one day achieve. Criticism of Racial Discrimination: However, Rizal was also deeply critical of certain aspects of American society, particularly its racial discrimination. He observed that despite the U.S. proclaiming itself as a champion of freedom, it still treated minorities—particularly African Americans and immigrants—with prejudice and inequality. He found it ironic that a country that had fought for its own independence from colonial rule was still oppressing segments of its own population. In his writings, Rizal highlighted the inconsistencies between America’s ideals and its realities. Comparison to the Philippines: Rizal couldn’t help but compare the democratic freedoms he observed in the U.S. with the repressive colonial regime in the Philippines. While America promoted liberty and the right to  self-determination, the Philippines was still under the iron grip of Spain, with Filipinos denied basic rights such as freedom of speech, press, and self-governance. These observations deepened his belief that the Philippines deserved the same freedoms that other countries like the U.S. enjoyed. Interactive Engagement: Encourage the audience to reflect on the irony of a country like the U.S. advocating for freedom while still engaging in practices of discrimination. Pose the question: How do you think Rizal’s brief stay in America influenced his views on colonialism and inequality? This will prompt the audience to think about how Rizal’s time in the U.S. might have sharpened his critiques not only of Spanish rule but of imperialism and racial inequality on a broader scale. 4. Impacts of Rizal’s travels. (Lumba) José Rizal, the national hero of the Philippines, travelled extensively across Europe, Asia, and the Americas during the late 19th century. 1. Exposure to New Ideas and Education Rizal’s time in Europe, particularly in Spain, France, and Germany, exposed him to new political ideas, scientific advancements, and philosophies. He studied medicine in Madrid and attended lectures in Paris and Heidelberg. These experiences broadened his knowledge beyond what was available in the Philippines at the time. In Europe, Rizal came into contact with liberal ideas of democracy, freedom, and individual rights, which influenced his thoughts on how the Philippines could achieve independence from Spanish rule. In Germany, for instance, Rizal was deeply inspired by the intellectual environment and the ideas of progress, reform, and rational thought. He admired the German approach to scientific inquiry, and this influenced his own methods of thinking, as he began writing more critically and analytically. 2. Strengthening His Sense of National Identity As Rizal moved through different countries, he observed the status of colonies and nations under foreign rule. In Spain, he was part of a Filipino expatriate community of illustrados (enlightened Filipinos) who advocated for reforms in the Philippines. His travels allowed him to compare the state of the Philippines with other nations, strengthening his desire for social and political reform. While in Europe, he also found allies and sympathisers for the Filipino cause. He established relationships with other intellectuals, both Filipino and foreign, who supported Philippine independence. His exposure to other nationalist movements, such as those in Latin America, shaped his ideas about how Filipinos could organize and fight for freedom. 3. Literary and Revolutionary Output Rizal’s travels greatly influenced his two most famous works, Noli Me Tángere and El Filibusterismo. These novels exposed the injustices of Spanish colonial rule and the abuses of the clergy, helping to ignite a nationalist spirit among Filipinos. His time in Spain and Europe provided him with the freedom to write openly, as he would not have been able to publish such critical works in the Philippines due to censorship. His travel experiences were reflected in the novels, particularly his critiques of colonialism and his depictions of Filipino society. By interacting with progressive thinkers in Europe, Rizal gained the confidence and the skills to articulate his vision for a reformed Philippine society, which would later inspire the Philippine Revolution. 4. Development of Global Connections and Recognition As Rizal travelled to places like Japan, the United States, and Hong Kong, he became more aware of the global fight against colonialism and imperialism. He met people from other colonies and realized that the struggle of the Filipinos was part of a larger global movement for self-determination. Rizal’s trip to Japan exposed him to Asian culture and traditions, and his short stay there convinced him that an Asian nation like Japan, which successfully maintained its sovereignty, could serve as a model for the Philippines. His observations of the United States highlighted both the opportunities and the contradictions of Western-style democracy, as he witnessed discrimination against minorities, especially Native Americans and African Americans. In Hong Kong, he built a community of Filipino exiles and advocated for reforms in the Philippines from abroad. His global perspective helped broaden the Filipino struggle from a local issue to an international one. 5. Humanitarian and Social Awareness Rizal’s travels also helped develop his understanding of the human condition across different cultures and classes. Whether he was studying in Germany or observing the laborers in the United States, he became more sensitive to the plight of oppressed peoples everywhere. His humanist outlook, influenced by his global exposure, helped shape his vision for a Philippines that respected human dignity, social justice, and freedom. His interactions with various cultures made him more aware of the importance of unity and cooperation among Filipinos of different backgrounds. His travels taught him that achieving freedom required both intellectual action and solidarity across social classes. Rizal’s travels transformed him into a global citizen with a deep understanding of both the oppressive forces at work in the Philippines and the broader context of colonialism around the world. His exposure to different ideologies, cultures, and movements helped shape his writings, which in turn inspired the Filipino nationalist movement. His journey around the world gave him the tools to challenge Spanish colonial rule and lay the foundation for Philippine independence. a. Key Lessons from Rizal’s Travels (5-6 minutes) Lumba Content: Summarize what Rizal learned from each country: Hong Kong: In Hong Kong, Rizal witnessed a society that allowed more freedom of expression and movement than in the Philippines, which was under Spanish colonial rule. He saw the city as a refuge for Filipinos, including those in exile, and admired how this port city managed to thrive without strict oppression. This made Rizal think about the possibility of Filipinos living in a society with more liberty and opportunities for progress. Japan:During his stay in Japan, Rizal admired how the country was able to modernize rapidly without giving up its rich cultural heritage. Japan’s modernization efforts, particularly in terms of technology, infrastructure, and government, were impressive to him. Additionally, Rizal’s personal experience with O-Sei-San, a Japanese woman who he grew close to, left a significant emotional mark on him. His time in Japan taught him that it was possible to progress while maintaining national pride and identity, something he hoped could be done in the Philippines. United States: When Rizal traveled to the United States, he was struck by its rapid industrial progress and democratic ideals. However, he also noticed the racial inequality and discrimination faced by minorities, particularly African Americans and Native Americans. For Rizal, this was a glaring contradiction in a nation that promoted freedom and equality. He recognized that progress could exist alongside deep social issues, which made him reflect on the kind of future he wanted for his homeland. Engagement: Based on these lessons from Rizal’s travels, what do you think was the most significant takeaway? Was it the freedom and refuge in Hong Kong, Japan’s balanced modernization, or the contradictory progress of the United States? Feel free to share your thoughts, or we can conduct a quick survey to see which resonates the most with everyone. b. Rizal’s Continuing Journey and Final Return (4-5 minutes) [Sacay] Content: Rizal’s travels did not end in East Asia and the United States. After his time in these regions, he continued his advocacy work in Europe. He returned to the Propaganda Movement, where he wrote for reformist publications and continued to rally support for Philippine reforms. His travels had broadened his perspective, and he channeled these experiences into his second novel, El Filibusterismo, a much darker and more revolutionary work than Noli Me Tángere. El Filibusterismo: Written while in Europe, this novel showed a shift in Rizal’s political thinking. While Nolifocused on peaceful reform, El Fili hinted at the potential for revolution as the only path forward if the Spanish government refused to listen to the pleas for change. His travels, particularly his observations of inequality in both  Asia and the U.S., deepened his understanding of the global fight against colonialism and helped shape his evolving vision for the Philippines. Strengthening the Propaganda Movement: Rizal continued to work closely with reformists such as Marcelo H. del Pilar and Graciano López Jaena. Together, they built a stronger network of Filipinos in Europe who pushed for peaceful reforms through writings, speeches, and political lobbying. While Rizal was never in favor of violent revolution, his experiences abroad solidified his belief in the need for drastic changes in the way Spain ruled the Philippines. Conclusion: Rizal’s travels in East Asia, the United States, and later Europe helped to shape his political beliefs and ultimately led to his renewed commitment to the cause of Philippine independence. By seeing the world beyond the Philippines, Rizal was able to understand the broader context of colonialism and apply those insights to the fight for Filipino self-determination. Final Thought: Leave the audience with a reflective question: Given the challenges and opportunities Rizal faced during his travels, how do you think these experiences prepared him for the ultimate sacrifices he would later make for his country? This invites the audience to consider how these global experiences contributed to Rizal’s personal and political evolution, setting the stage for the choices he would make upon his final return to the Philippines. 5. Q&A and Quiz (15-20 minutes) Rodriguez