Rizal

ROOTS OF A HERO ROOTS OF A HERO

Every nation has heroes whose lives continue to inspire generations, and for the Philippines, one of the greatest is Dr. Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda. Through his writings, ideas, and love for his country, Rizal awakened the minds of Filipinos and proved that knowledge, truth, and courage are powerful tools for creating change. His life reminds us that nationalism is shown not only through sacrifice but also through education, integrity, and service to others. This book is our humble tribute to Jose Rizal and the timeless lessons he left for every Filipino. It follows his journey from his childhood in Calamba, his years as a student and reformist, his travels abroad, his sacrifices for the nation, and the legacy he left behind. The content of this flip book is primarily based on Chapter 4 – The Life of Jose Rizal from the book The Life and Works of Jose Rizal by Rhodalyn Wani-Obias, Aaron Abel Mallari, and Janet Reguindin-Estella, which served as the main historical reference for this work. We dedicate this book to Dr. Jose Rizal, whose life continues to inspire generations to pursue knowledge, justice, and love for the country. We also dedicate it to the Pag-asa ng Bayan, the youth of today, in the hope that Rizal's story encourages them to become responsible citizens and future leaders. This work is likewise dedicated to our PI 10 Section B3 classmates and our professor, Sir Jarl Matthew Tuazon, for guiding us in understanding the life, works, and ideals of Rizal. May the lessons we have learned continue to strengthen our appreciation of Philippine history and national identity. Lastly, we dedicate this flip book to every reader. May Rizal's story inspire you to value truth, uphold integrity, and serve the nation in your own way. His legacy lives on through every Filipino who chooses to make a positive difference in society. FOREWORD

Foreword.................................................................i Table of Content.....................................................ii The Dawn of a Visionary........................................1 Scholar and Seeker.................................................2 The Pen as a Sword.................................................3 Rizal and the World Beyond..................................5 The Martyrdom and the Message.........................6 The Eternal Rizal...................................................7 Reflection..............................................................8 References.............................................................8 Appendices.............................................................9 Content Page Number TABLE OF CONTENT

THE DAWN OF A VISIONARYJosé Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda, better known as José Rizal, was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna. He was born during the Spanish colonial period, when the Philippines had been under Spanish rule for almost three hundred years. During this time, many Filipinos experienced unfair treatment, limited opportunities, and poor access to education. Although Rizal belonged to a financially stable family, he witnessed these inequalities while growing up. These early experiences helped shape his sense of justice and inspired his love for his country. Rizal was the seventh of eleven children of Francisco Mercado and Teodora Alonso Realonda. His father was a hardworking farmer and businessman who leased land from the Dominican friars, while his mother was a well-educated and intelligent woman who valued learning. Their home was filled with discipline, respect, and strong moral values. Rizal's parents believed that education was the key to a better future, so they encouraged all of their children to study hard and develop good character. These lessons became the foundation of Rizal's life and influenced many of the decisions he made as he grew older. Among all the members of his family, Rizal's mother had the greatest influence on him. Before he entered formal school, Teodora personally taught him how to read, write, and pray. She also introduced him to books, stories, and poems that developed his imagination and love for learning. She encouraged him to think carefully, ask questions, and always seek knowledge. Rizal later recognized his mother as his first teacher and credited her for inspiring his lifelong passion for education. Even as a child, Rizal showed talents that were uncommon for someone his age. He enjoyed reading books, drawing, painting, writing poems, and making small clay sculptures. He was also curious about nature and liked observing plants, animals, and the world around him. Instead of being satisfied with simple answers, he wanted to understand how things worked. This natural curiosity helped him develop the skills that would later make him an accomplished writer, doctor, scientist, artist, linguist, and educator. His willingness to learn from every experience became one of the qualities that made him different from many people of his time. THE BIRTH AND THE LAST BREATH ... Page 1

Growing up in Calamba also exposed Rizal to the struggles of ordinary Filipinos. While the town was surrounded by beautiful farms and the peaceful Laguna de Bay, many farmers suffered because of high land rents and unfair treatment from the friars who owned large estates. Rizal saw that many hardworking Filipinos remained poor despite their efforts. These experiences made him realize that many problems existed in his country and that change was necessary. They also strengthened his desire to understand why these injustices happened and how they could be corrected. One of the most painful events of Rizal's childhood was the imprisonment of his mother. She was falsely accused of poisoning a relative and was jailed despite being innocent. This incident deeply affected the young Rizal because it showed him how unfair the colonial justice system could be. It strengthened his belief that every person deserved equal treatment under the law, regardless of social status or race. Rizal received his early education from private tutors before attending formal schools. He quickly gained a reputation as an excellent student because of his intelligence, discipline, and love for learning. He studied different subjects with great interest and believed that education could help people improve themselves and their country. As he grew older, he became more aware of the discrimination between Spaniards and Filipinos. Instead of responding with hatred, Rizal believed that education, peaceful reform, and unity were the best ways to bring positive change. These beliefs would later guide his writings and inspire generations of Filipinos to value freedom, justice, and national pride. The early life of José Rizal shows that his character was shaped long before he became a national hero. His family provided him with a strong foundation in education, discipline, and moral values, while his experiences in Calamba allowed him to witness the realities of Spanish colonial rule. His mother's guidance encouraged him to become a lifelong learner, while the injustice suffered by his family opened his eyes to the problems faced by many Filipinos. These childhood experiences helped develop Rizal's belief that education and peaceful reform were the best ways to improve society. Understanding his early years helps us appreciate that Rizal's achievements were not the result of natural talent alone but also of the values, lessons, and experiences that prepared him to become one of the greatest leaders in Philippine history. ... Page 1 After completing his early education, José Rizal continued his studies in Manila, where his intelligence and determination became even more evident. In 1872, he enrolled at the Ateneo Municipal de Manila, one of the country's most respected schools. Although he entered as an ordinary student, Rizal quickly proved himself through his hard work and discipline. He consistently earned high grades and received several academic awards. In 1877, he graduated with the degree of Bachelor of Arts, finishing as one of the school's outstanding students. During his years at Ateneo, Rizal also developed his skills in writing, drawing, public speaking, and leadership. The school encouraged critical thinking and personal discipline, helping shape him into a well-rounded young man. After Ateneo, Rizal entered the University of Santo Tomas (UST) to study Philosophy and Letters before later shifting to Medicine. He chose medicine because he wanted to help cure his mother's failing eyesight. However, his years at UST were far different from his experience at Ateneo. Rizal became disappointed with the way many Filipino students were treated by some Spanish professors. He observed that Filipino students often experienced discrimination and were not given the same opportunities as Spanish students. SCHOLAR AND SEEKER

Although he remained an excellent student, these experiences made him realize that the colonial education system was not always fair. Instead of discouraging him, these challenges strengthened his desire to continue learning and to seek education where talent would be judged more equally. In 1882, Rizal secretly left the Philippines and traveled to Spain to continue his studies. He kept his departure a secret because he knew the Spanish authorities might stop him from leaving. His family also feared that his growing interest in reform could place him in danger. Despite these risks, Rizal believed that studying abroad would allow him to gain knowledge that he could one day use to help his fellow Filipinos. In Spain, Rizal enrolled at the Universidad Central de Madrid, where he continued studying medicine while also taking courses in philosophy. Unlike his experience in the Philippines, he found an environment where students could discuss ideas more openly. He earned his Licentiate in Medicine in 1884 and later completed his degree in Philosophy and Letters in 1885. His academic success proved that Filipino students were just as capable as students from Europe when given equal opportunities. While living in Europe, Rizal did more than earn university degrees. He traveled to countries such as France, Germany, Belgium, and England, where he continued learning from professors, scientists, writers, and fellow reformers. He also improved his knowledge of several languages, eventually becoming fluent in many of them. His ability to communicate with people from different countries allowed him to understand various cultures and exchange ideas with some of the brightest minds of his time. Rizal was greatly influenced by the liberal ideas spreading across Europe during the nineteenth century. He learned about freedom, equality, democracy, and human rights, as well as the growing movements for national independence in different countries. These ideas helped him understand that people should have the right to govern themselves and enjoy equal protection under the law. He realized that the Philippines also deserved reforms that would give Filipinos greater opportunities, dignity, and justice. Although Rizal became more aware of the abuses committed under Spanish colonial rule, he did not immediately call for violent revolution. Instead, he believed that meaningful change could be achieved through education, peaceful reform, and the awakening of national consciousness. He argued that when people became educated, they could think critically, understand their rights, and work together to improve society. For Rizal, knowledge was the strongest weapon against ignorance and oppression. His years as a student transformed him from a gifted young scholar into a thoughtful reformer with a clear purpose. Every lesson he learned, every country he visited, and every challenge he faced strengthened his belief that education could change lives and build a better nation. These experiences prepared Rizal for the next stage of his life, where he would use his writing to inspire Filipinos and expose the injustices of Spanish colonial rule. ... Page 2 Rizal's journey as a student demonstrates that education became the foundation of his mission to serve the Filipino people. His success at Ateneo showed his academic excellence, while his difficult experiences at the University of Santo Tomas exposed him to the discrimination faced by Filipinos under Spanish rule. His studies in Europe broadened his understanding of freedom, equality, and nationalism, allowing him to compare the situation of the Philippines with that of other nations. Rather than using violence, Rizal believed that education, critical thinking, and peaceful reform were the most effective ways to achieve lasting change. His experiences abroad shaped the philosophy that guided his writings and inspired the Philippine reform movement.

... Page 3 While studying and traveling in Europe, José Rizal realized that one of the strongest ways to fight injustice was through writing. Instead of using weapons or violence, he chose to use his intelligence and his pen to expose the problems faced by Filipinos under Spanish colonial rule. Rizal believed that if people understood the truth about their society, they would become aware of the need for change. Through his books and essays, he hoped to awaken the minds of Filipinos and encourage peaceful reforms. In 1887, Rizal published his first novel Noli Me Tangere while in Berlin, Germany. It tells the story of Crisóstomo Ibarra, a young indio who returns from Europe hoping to uplift his hometown through education. Instead, he confronts corruption, abuse, and injustice, revealing the deep social problems of Philippine society under Spanish colonial rule. The novel also introduced memorable characters who represented different parts of society. Padre Dámaso symbolized abusive friars who misused their religious authority, while María Clara represented the ideal Filipina whose life was affected by colonial traditions and family expectations. Elias represented ordinary Filipinos who suffered because of injustice, while Sisa became a symbol of innocent people who lost everything because of oppression. Through these characters, Rizal showed that the problems of the Philippines affected people from every social class. Although Noli Me Tangere was a work of fiction, many readers recognized that it reflected the real conditions in the country. The novel criticized corruption in the government, the abuse of power by some friars, weaknesses in the justice system, and the lack of equal opportunities for Filipinos. Rather than attacking Spain itself, Rizal wanted to expose the abuses committed by individuals who misused their authority. His goal was to encourage reforms that would create a fairer and more just society. Five years later, in 1891, Rizal published his second novel, El Filibusterismo, while living in Ghent, Belgium. Compared to Noli Me Tangere, this novel had a darker and more serious tone. The story followed the return of Crisóstomo Ibarra, now disguised as Simoun, a wealthy jeweler who sought revenge against those who had destroyed his life. Through Simoun's story, Rizal explored the dangers of hatred, revenge, and violence. He warned that if peaceful reforms continued to be ignored, society could be pushed toward revolution and greater suffering. Together, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo became powerful works that awakened the national consciousness of many Filipinos. They encouraged readers to question injustice, value education, and recognize their identity as a people. Rizal wanted Filipinos to understand that loving one's country also meant working to improve it. His novels inspired many educated Filipinos, including members of the reform movement, to continue demanding equal rights and better treatment under Spanish rule. Rizal proved that words could become powerful weapons in the fight against injustice. Through Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, he exposed the problems of Spanish colonial rule and encouraged Filipinos to think about their rights, identity, and future. His novels were not written to promote hatred but to inspire peaceful reform through truth and education. Although his works were banned and criticized by colonial authorities, they continued to spread among Filipinos and awakened a stronger sense of nationalism. Today, these two novels remain important because they remind readers that literature can influence society, challenge injustice, and inspire positive change. THE PEN AS A SWORD

The Spanish friars and colonial authorities reacted strongly to Rizal's writings. They believed that his novels threatened their authority because they exposed the abuses happening in the Philippines. As a result, both books were banned in many places, and people who owned or read them were sometimes questioned by the government. Rizal himself was closely watched by Spanish officials, who considered his writings dangerous because they inspired people to think critically about colonial rule. Despite the criticism and risks, Rizal refused to remain silent. He believed that telling the truth was more important than protecting his own safety. His courage showed that ideas could become powerful tools for change. Although he never led an armed rebellion, his writings inspired many Filipinos to seek freedom, justice, and national unity. His books became symbols of hope and helped lay the foundation for the country's growing nationalist movement. ... Page 3 José Rizal was not only a Filipino patriot but also a citizen of the world. His travels across different countries allowed him to learn from various cultures, meet influential people, and gain a broader understanding of society. Every place he visited gave him new ideas that strengthened his belief that the Philippines could also become a progressive and educated nation. Instead of forgetting his homeland while abroad, Rizal became even more determined to use his knowledge to improve the lives of his fellow Filipinos. After leaving the Philippines in 1882, Rizal lived and studied in several European countries, including Spain, France, Germany, Belgium, and England. He also visited Italy, Austria, Switzerland, Hong Kong, Japan, Singapore, and the United States. During these travels, he observed how governments, schools, hospitals, and communities functioned. He admired countries that valued education, science, discipline, and equal opportunities for their citizens. These experiences convinced him that progress was possible if a nation invested in its people and promoted justice. Throughout his journeys, Rizal met many scholars, scientists, writers, and reformers who shared his interest in knowledge and social progress. He became friends with respected individuals such as Ferdinand Blumentritt, an Austrian educator who became one of his closest lifelong friends. Their friendship was built on mutual respect and their shared interest in Philippine history and culture. Rizal also worked with members of the Propaganda Movement, a group of Filipino reformists who peacefully campaigned for equal rights and political reforms under Spanish rule. These relationships allowed Rizal to exchange ideas and strengthen his belief that education and cooperation were powerful tools for national development. Rizal's experiences abroad helped him develop a global perspective on freedom and human dignity. He saw that people from different races, religions, and cultures deserved equal respect and opportunities. He believed that no nation should oppress another and that every individual had the right to live with dignity and justice. These ideas became an important part of his writings and inspired his vision of a Philippines where all citizens could enjoy equal rights regardless of their background. Aside from being a writer and reformer, Rizal also excelled in many fields of science and the arts. He specialized in ophthalmology, a branch of medicine that RIZAL AND THE WORLD BEYOND

focuses on treating eye diseases. One of his main reasons for studying this field was his desire to cure his mother's worsening eyesight. He trained under some of Europe's leading eye specialists and became a skilled ophthalmologist. During his exile in Dapitan, he treated many patients, often providing free medical services to those who could not afford to pay. Rizal was also interested in ethnography, the study of different cultures and traditions. He believed that understanding the customs and history of the Filipino people was important in preserving their identity. He collected artifacts, studied local languages, and conducted research on Philippine history. His work helped show that Filipinos had a rich culture and civilization long before the arrival of the Spanish colonizers. In addition to science, Rizal possessed remarkable artistic talent. He enjoyed drawing, painting, sculpting, and designing. Many of his sculptures reflected his creativity and appreciation for beauty. He also wrote poetry and essays in several languages, proving that he was not only a gifted writer but also a talented artist. His ability to combine science, literature, and art made him one of the most accomplished Filipinos of his generation. Rizal's travels taught him that true patriotism did not mean rejecting other cultures. Instead, he believed that Filipinos should learn from the achievements of other nations while remaining proud of their own identity. He showed that education, openness to new ideas, and respect for others could help build a stronger and more united country. His experiences around the world prepared him to become not only a leader for the Philippines but also a respected figure recognized by people from many different nations. ... Page 1 Rizal's travels greatly expanded his knowledge and shaped his vision for the future of the Philippines. By studying and working in different countries, he learned valuable lessons about education, science, good governance, and human rights. His friendships with foreign scholars and Filipino reformists strengthened his belief that peaceful cooperation and learning could bring lasting change. At the same time, his achievements in medicine, ethnography, literature, and the arts showed that Filipinos were capable of excelling on the world stage. Rizal's life reminds us that loving one's country does not mean limiting oneself to local ideas; instead, it means learning from the world and using that knowledge to improve the nation. After publishing Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, José Rizal became one of the most closely watched Filipinos by the Spanish colonial government. His writings exposed the abuses committed by some Spanish officials and friars, making him a target of suspicion. Although Rizal continued to believe in peaceful reform, the authorities viewed his growing influence as a threat. In 1892, shortly after returning to the Philippines, he founded La Liga Filipina, an organization that aimed to unite Filipinos, promote education, encourage economic cooperation, and seek reforms through peaceful means. However, only a few days after its founding, Rizal was arrested and exiled to Dapitan, a small town in Mindanao. Rizal spent almost four years in Dapitan, from 1892 to 1896. Although he was far from his family and friends, he did not waste his time feeling discouraged. Instead, he continued serving the community using his knowledge and skills. He established a small school where he taught young boys subjects such as mathematics, science, languages, and good moral values. THE MARTYRDOM AND THE MESSAGE

He also worked as a doctor and successfully treated many patients, including those who could not afford to pay for medical care. Aside from teaching and practicing medicine, Rizal helped improve the town by planning water systems, encouraging agriculture, and introducing community projects. His years in Dapitan proved that he was not only a great writer but also a leader who genuinely wanted to improve the lives of ordinary people. In 1896, the Philippine Revolution began under the leadership of the Katipunan. Although Rizal did not support the use of violence and was not directly involved in the revolution, the Spanish authorities accused him of inspiring the rebellion through his writings. He was arrested while traveling to Cuba, where he had volunteered to serve as a doctor for victims of a yellow fever outbreak. Instead of reaching Cuba, he was brought back to Manila and imprisoned. Rizal was placed on trial before a Spanish military court. He was charged with rebellion, sedition, and forming illegal organizations. During the trial, he defended himself and denied taking part in the armed revolution. However, the court had already decided his fate. Despite the lack of evidence proving that he had planned or led the uprising, Rizal was found guilty and sentenced to death. Many people believed that the decision was made not because of his actions, but because his ideas had inspired Filipinos to demand justice and reforms. On the morning of December 30, 1896, José Rizal was executed by firing squad at Bagumbayan, now known as Luneta Park. Before his execution, he requested to face the firing squad, but his request was denied. As the shots were fired, Rizal managed to turn his body and face the sky before taking his final breath. His calmness and courage during his final moments became one of the most remembered scenes in Philippine history, symbolizing his unwavering love for his country. Before his execution, Rizal secretly wrote his final poem, Mi Último Adiós (My Last Farewell). In the poem, he expressed his deep love for the Philippines and his willingness to sacrifice his life for its freedom. He did not write words of hatred or revenge. Instead, he spoke of hope, peace, and his dream that future generations would continue the struggle for a better nation. The poem became one of the greatest literary works in Philippine history and inspired countless Filipinos to continue working for freedom and justice. Although the Spanish government believed that Rizal's execution would silence his influence, the opposite happened. His death united many Filipinos and strengthened the desire for independence. Rizal became a symbol of courage, sacrifice, and peaceful resistance. His life showed that one person's ideas could inspire an entire nation. His martyrdom transformed him from a respected reformer into a lasting national hero whose message continues to inspire Filipinos around the world. ... Page 2 Rizal's exile, trial, and execution marked the final chapter of his life but also the beginning of his lasting legacy. Even while living in Dapitan, he continued serving others through education, medicine, and community development, proving that true patriotism means helping people wherever one is. His execution did not stop the growing movement for freedom; instead, it inspired many Filipinos to continue fighting for independence. His final poem, Mi Último Adiós, remains a powerful reminder of his love for the Philippines and his willingness to sacrifice everything for the nation's future. Rizal's martyrdom transformed him into a symbol of hope, courage, and selfless service that continues to inspire generations.

... Page 2 More than a century after his death, José Rizal continues to be one of the most respected figures in Philippine history. Although he never became a soldier or led a revolution, his ideas changed the way Filipinos saw themselves and their country. Through his writings, education, and peaceful fight for justice, Rizal inspired generations of Filipinos to value freedom, equality, and national pride. His life proved that real change can begin with knowledge, courage, and a strong sense of responsibility. One of Rizal's greatest contributions was awakening Filipino nationalism. Before his time, many Filipinos identified only with their hometowns or provinces. Rizal urged people to see themselves as members of one nation with a common history and shared dreams. His novels exposed colonial abuses and encouraged Filipinos to think critically about their country’s problems. By opening readers’ minds, Rizal helped build the foundation of the nationalist movement, which eventually led to the struggle for independence. izal also believed that education was the most powerful tool for improving society. He often said that young people are the hope of the nation because they have the ability to create a better future. Throughout his life, he promoted learning, critical thinking, and the pursuit of knowledge. Even during his exile in Dapitan, he continued teaching young students and encouraging them to become responsible citizens. Rizal believed that an educated population could solve problems peacefully and build a nation based on justice, honesty, and hard work. Another important lesson from Rizal's life is the value of civic virtue and moral courage. He showed that true patriotism is not measured only by grand acts of heroism but also by honesty, discipline, respect for others, and a willingness to serve the community. Despite the dangers he faced, Rizal remained faithful to his principles. He chose to speak the truth even when it placed his own life at risk. His courage came not from violence but from his commitment to doing what he believed was right. Many historians describe Rizal as a symbol of reform rather than revolution. He believed that lasting change should begin through education, peaceful discussion, and legal reforms instead of armed conflict. Although the Philippine Revolution eventually broke out, Rizal remained consistent in his belief that violence often brought unnecessary suffering. His goal was not to create hatred but to build a society where Filipinos and Spaniards could enjoy equal rights under fair laws. While some revolutionaries believed that independence could only be achieved through force, Rizal hoped that justice could be achieved through reason and peaceful action. This difference in approach continues to be discussed by historians today, but there is no doubt that both Rizal and the revolutionaries shared the same goal of improving the lives of Filipinos. Rizal's ideals remain relevant in the present day. His message continues to inspire students to value education, professionals to serve with integrity, and citizens to participate responsibly in nation-building. His writings remind Filipinos to stand against corruption, abuse of power, misinformation, and social injustice. In government, his ideals encourage leaders to practice honesty, accountability, and public service. For today's youth, Rizal serves as an example that age is not a barrier to making meaningful contributions to society. Through knowledge, discipline, and compassion, every Filipino has the ability to create positive change. THE ETERNAL RIZAL

The legacy of José Rizal continues to live through the schools that teach his works, the monuments built in his honor, and the values he left behind. More importantly, his legacy lives in every Filipino who chooses to love the country through responsible actions, respect for others, and a commitment to truth and justice. Rizal's life reminds us that the fight for a better nation does not end with one generation. It is a responsibility that must be carried forward by every Filipino who dreams of a stronger, fairer, and more united Philippines. ... Page 2 José Rizal's legacy extends far beyond the books he wrote and the sacrifice he made for his country. His greatest contribution was inspiring Filipinos to believe in the power of education, peaceful reform, and national unity. His ideas continue to influence Philippine education, government, and civic life, reminding citizens that true patriotism is shown through honesty, responsibility, and service to others. While history remembers Rizal as a national hero, his message remains relevant because many of the challenges he spoke about—such as corruption, inequality, and the importance of education—still exist today. By following his principles of critical thinking, compassion, and moral courage, every Filipino can help continue the work that Rizal began and contribute to building a better nation for future generations.

The life of José Rizal reminds us that one person can make a difference through knowledge, courage, and love for the country. He was not remembered because he was the strongest or the richest, but because he chose to stand for what was right. He believed that education could change lives, that truth should never be hidden, and that every Filipino had a role in building a better nation. Even after more than a hundred years, his words and actions continue to inspire students, teachers, leaders, and ordinary citizens. His story teaches us that real patriotism begins with simple acts of honesty, responsibility, kindness, and a willingness to serve others. As we close this flip book, may Rizal's life inspire us to become better versions of ourselves. Let us not only remember his achievements but also practice the values he lived by every day. As students and as the Pag-asa ng Bayan, we have the responsibility to continue the work he started by valuing education, respecting our history, thinking critically, and serving our communities with integrity. The future of the Philippines depends on the choices we make today. May Rizal's legacy encourage us to dream bigger, work harder, and love our country through our words and actions. Let us carry his ideals into our homes, schools, and communities, proving that every Filipino has the power to help build a stronger, more united, and more progressive nation. The story of José Rizal may have ended, but the responsibility to continue his vision now belongs to us. Mabuhay ang mga Pag-asa ng Bayan! REFLECTION ... Page 2

Alchetron. (2026, April 25). Rizal Monument. Alchetron: The Free Social Encyclopedia. https://alchetron.com/Rizal-Monument Jaramillo, C. J. (2024, January 30). Jose Rizal’s legacy. Charissa Jane Blog. https://charissajanejaramillo.blogspot.com/2024/01/jose-rizals-legacy.html Philippine Folklife Museum Foundation. (n.d.). José Rizal. Philippine Folklife Museum Foundation. https://philippinefolklifemuseum.org/portfolio-items/jose- rizal/ Wani-Obias, R., Mallari, A. A., & Reguindin-Estella, J. (2018). The life and works of José Rizal. C & E Publishing, Inc. REFERENCES ... Page 2

APPENDICES Retrieved from: Philippine Folklife Museum Foundation. (n.d.). José Rizal. Philippine Folklife Museum Foundation. https://philippinefolklifemuseum.org/ portfolio-items/jose-rizal/ Retrieved from: GMA News Online. (2012, July 20). Rizalpabeto: Introducing a new generation to Jose Rizal one letter at a time. GMA News Online. https://www.gmanetwork.com/news/lifestyle/artand culture/267767/rizalpabeto- introducing-a-new-generation-to-jose-rizal-one-letter-at-a-time/story/ The Martyrdom of Rizal by Carlos “Botong” V. Francisco Rizalpabeto by Elmer Borlongan andVim Nadera ... Page 2

APPENDICES Retrieved from: Alchetron. (2026, April 25). Rizal Monument. Alchetron: The Free Social Encyclopedia. https://alchetron.com/Rizal-Monument The Rizal Monument in Luneta Park, Manila, honors Dr. Jose Rizal, the Philippines' national hero. It marks the site where he was executed on December 30, 1896. Today, it stands as a symbol of nationalism, freedom, and the lasting impact of Rizal's sacrifice and ideals on our country. Rizal Monument in Luneta Park ... Page 2

APPENDICES Retrieved from: Jaramillo, C. J. (2024, January 30). Jose Rizal’s legacy. Charissa Jane Blog. https://charissajanejaramillo.blogspot.com/2024/01/jose-rizals-legacy.html Retrieved from: Jaramillo, C. J. (2024, January 30). Jose Rizal’s legacy. Charissa Jane Blog. https://charissajanejaramillo.blogspot.com/2024/01/jose-rizals-legacy.html Rizal’s novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo" Newspaper La Solidaridad ... Page 2

Mis sueños cuando apenas muchacho adolescente, Fueron el verte un día, joya del mar de Oriente, Secos los negros ojos, alta la tersa frente, Sin ceño, sin arrugas, sin manchas de rubor. My dreams, when scarcely a lad adolescent, My dreams when already a youth full of vigor, Were to see thee one day, O gem of the Orient, Dry thy dark eyes, smooth thy brow, free from shame and sorrow. Mi Último Adiós