AKDA: The Life and Works of Dr. Jose Rizal by GERIZAL Y20 Group 4

TABLE OF

CONTENTS

A New Era for Filipinos Written by Wendyl Chua

Our Task To Make Rizal Obsolete Written by Kristine Cruzillo

Who Run the World? GIRLS. Written by Erika Golez

Oppression: as represented by the characters of Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo Written by Erika Golez

Legacy to Filipino Women Written by Francene Lee

Rizal's Hero and Inspiration Written by Francene Lee

José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda: The Filipino Youth's Game-Changer, The Filipino Youth's Life-Changer.

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5 7 8 9 10 11

Written by Courtney Tulio

Achieving Greatness Through His Obsolesce

15

Juan Tamad:

17

Written by Nicole Pahud

The Disincentivization of Filipinos Written by Chyna Tomas

Tamad Ba? I Think Not! Written by Ashtrid Tabitha Chua

Rizal in Dapitan Written by Moira Sepeda

Uncovering Patriotism

Written by Maria Cristina Asuncion H. Pilapil

Love, Rizal

Written by Adrian Sevillana

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ABOUT US This magazine is a periodical publication, which is published electronically. It is issued once for the fulfillment of our course requirements in GERIZAL, and it contains a variety of content that reflect the life and work of Dr. Jose Rizal — the beloved national hero of the Philippines.

Dr. Jose Rizal has produced several seminal works that redefined generations of Filipino thinkers to come. He has discussed topics that stay relevant to modern day. With that, this publication aims to honor his ideologies and sacrifices for the nation by keeping his sentiments alive.

Modern day struggles can be likened to that of the past, and that is the recurring theme of this magazine. Hopefully, the readers will understand that history can be seen reflected to today's struggles and lessons from the past may become our salvation today.

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AKDA

A New Era for Filipinos RIZAL IN THE 21ST CENTURY

By Wendyl Chua

The Philippines for a hundred years seems to have been a new era for Filipinos. Simultaneously with the change, in matters of government, laws, customs, practices, and religion, is the despair of Filipinos and forgetfulness of how they write, sing, and other memories and past habits they inherited. When this time came, many became depressed and gave up, and they seemed to be brainless and heartless beings; breathing but not alive, because the contempt for the Filipino race also began, and deprived of the comfort that was for them. The Philippine occupation of Spain brought about many changes, where the former leader in the Philippines was subjected to foreigners also because of the hope of development from the occupiers.

It got to the point that Filipinos were ashamed and rejected their own culture, and instead, Filipinos admired and praised anything foreign until the foreigner defeated their heart and spirit. As the years passed, religion was used to persuade and eventually subjugate Filipinos to the will of foreigners. When the Filipinos were persuaded, they were treated like animals and slaves to serve the foreigners in the development of Spain. Despite this, there are also awakened hearts, compassionate hearts, and noble spirits that try to fight for the justice that is due to humanity. The Filipinos were revived because of the pain and humiliation they experienced.

Additionally, a Filipino can now be a commander and be a general of an army. There has not been too much slander and insult to the people. The friars maintained the loyalty of the Filipinos to the Spanish government. But it also came to the point that all the good things about the development of the town were lost because the government was replaced by intimidation, exploitation, and slavery. in Rizal's view and analysis of the actions of the Spaniards, it can be said that Rizal also looked at the good deeds of the Spaniards as well as its evil.

AKDA

The dream is to transform the Philippines so that it becomes a country that is honest, true, and a country where all citizens are respected and valued.

True and radical change. But, Jose Rizal said, this is not easy to achieve due to the state of the country, misuse of power, wrong intentions, and wrong sense of change. In these times, any change will only be significant if it comes from supremacy. If the ordinary people started the movement, it would only lead to chaos and fighting. Despite this fact, many Filipino priests have practiced their patriotism and made the necessary changes. But, the changes have been minimal.

Reforms and movements made by Filipinos are sometimes harmful when the government is involved. If Filipinos cannot strengthen their faith in the integrity of government, many believe that all government solutions are minimal. That they are just outgoing and incapable of solving the cancers of society. Some major reforms have not yet been implemented, so justice is a basic need of civilized citizens. It also requires reform of trade, agriculture, security of every individual and property, and education. The Philippines will remain in Spain if their operation is honest and civilized, but if it does not change, it will not be an obstacle to the achievement of Filipino independence.

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It is said that the country will not last long with the domination of one race. One may agree and give up, or one may fall and suffer. One example occurred in Spain, where the occupiers were eventually expelled after bloody and repeated fighting. It is against all the laws of predestination and conscience to have a separate body with its strength and life. Science teaches that this strange body can be killed by the body that enters it. It says that the conquest of the country by foreigners could be the cause of our downfall. If Spain continues to take away education and freedom from the Philippines, its descendants will seek a way of freedom abroad. There was fighting and fighting between the invaders and the Philippines, both of which could have caused great damage. Spain must only consider the demands of the Filipino people if it does not want to jeopardize its wealth and its future in Africa and its independence in Europe.

Until the Philippines gained independence, other foreigners could continue what the Spaniards left behind.

The terrifying lessons of this time made sense to the people so that they would wake up to the truth and have courage. Over the years, many nations have been fighting and cooperating. Many things can happen over a hundred years and it is emphasized in part that it is not good to just trust the chance that we are occupied by foreigners because many things are not seen or understood in history. The answer is the unity of nations and their respective governments. They would rather fight for their country despite fear, with the slightest hope left rather than destroy the motherland.

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AKDA

History

OUR TASK TO MAKE RIZAL OBSOLETE

Story

Nations of Rizals. An article that discusses how our country needs people that has the same values, drive and passion for the country as Rizal.

By Kristine Cruzillo

Rizal has served and honored the country in the most selfless way possible by aligning his personal goals and beliefs with the best interest of the Philippines in mind. Nevermind the repercussions that came after his fight for injustices and abuse because what’s important for him is to be able to work for justice and attain freedom for his fellow Filipinos. His death was significant because he has lived his entire life criticizing the treatment of the Spanish colonizers towards the Filipinos and working his way to fight through the unjustness using his writings.

We need a nation who will be able to materialize his dream for the country.

However, his death doesn’t imply that Filipinos need to sacrifice their life and face death in order to be as great of a heroic figure as Rizal. We need people to have the same sense of drive and dedication that Rizal has when he was working against the oppressive system.

Centuries and decades have passed yet we are still encountering the same set of socio political and socio economic problems similar to what Rizal has encountered and fought against for.

The same rampant corruption in both the church and the government, the abuse of the marginalize and in some cases, the discrimination towards people who don’t have the proper educational attainment.

We must ask ourselves why have we not found a solution enough to combat these problems? It has been thousands of years since the legacy of Rizal has passed yet we are drenched in the very same roots of the problem that he tried to address through his own means. Did we ever learn from the mistakes of the past that we are now condemned to repeating it? In the current times, we need more people like Rizal, selfless and patriotic enough to acknowledge and address the problems that we have been facing for the longest time, ever since we were colonized by foreign powers. We need a nation of Rizals who like him have chosen to take the course of actions for progressive change in his own hands. However, we as a nation have truly honored Rizal and his work for the country once we are able to analyze him as a mirror of our past and not as a rebuke of the current social realities.

WWW.FRAMEMAG.COM | 20

The day that Rizal along with his ideals and writings become obsolete, is the day where the Philippines have achieved absolute freedom that will lead the nation to progress and move forward as a society. Indeed, we are in a sense unfree from the shackles of the effects of colonialism as parts of the population still practice and believe in backward beliefs and ideologies. It is the reason why up until now the problems from the past have extended in this millennium and have come to haunt us once again. It is said that we have become a great nation once he is no longer valid and his works are no longer interpreted to reveal social truths that are still applicable to this day and age. However just because he became obsolete as an important figure, it doesn’t mean that we should forget him and what he has contributed for the country.

AKDA

It is only when the people have realized Rizal’s dream where his greatness would be recognized which makes the people realize the value and importance of his ideals. When he becomes outdated then the likes of people who have a similar attitude to Dona Victorina will finally rejoice and take pride in the skin and nationality that they are born with.

People like the character of Basilio who is more inclined to proving his manhood through personal and material success will be long gone as people now have the capability to see past the idealized superficial state in life. The people that are within the likes of Simoun who are driven by personal revenge will also cease. The masses are now able to think critically and function rationally now that those issues are out of the way. They are now able to criticize and express discern with how minor officials only use their advantage for selfish personal reasons.

We, as Filipino people, should look for avenues to reorient our ways and our thoughts along nationalist lines because this will bring about the dreams of Rizal.

When it does happen, the goals too, become obsolete because what was once his dream has now transformed enough to be a reality.

FROM DREAM TO REALITY OUR TASK TO MAKE RIZAL OBSOLETE

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Rizal and Feminism

Who run the world?

GIRLS. Written by Erika Golez The role of women in society was not always given the same importance as we see it in present times. Today, we can see women voting, working, participating in sports, and more. Seen as the “inferior” sex, women were often excluded in activities and given a single role by society– to stay at home, clean, cook, look after the children, and take care of their husbands. Nowadays we can see women entering and excelling in different industries our ancestors could only imagine. Why is it so important to recognize and empower the role of women in our society? The answer lies in Jose Rizal’s simple yet meaningful thesis– women can make or break a country.

As early as the 19th century, talks on feminism have already sprouted in different parts of the world. On the part of Rizal, he was on a mission to revolutionize the role and attitude of women in the Philippines.

He believed that a rational woman could be capable of creating radical change in society. While Rizal was writing his novels, one can notice that most female characters were irrational in nature.

AKDA

The reason for this was to show the impact of the church’s teachings which have corrupted the women, and later on their children.

In a letter to the young women of Malolos, Rizal makes bold statements for them to open their eyes to the atrocities of the friars, clear their minds, gain strength to lift themselves up when faced by any hardships, and most importantly care for one another. Rizal also gives emphasis in his letter that women have a vital role in the development of a country. In doing so, he states that Filipinas should emulate the women of Sparta, and love their country more than they love themselves in order to create a strong nation.

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WORKS OF JOSE RIZAL

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Written by Erika Golez Did you know that the female characters in Jose Rizal’s novels represent different issues of oppression seen in the country during that time period?

Well now you are about to find out!

Gender Oppression - Sisa Her things were stolen by her husband Her body was used as a “baby factory” She was used as a money making machine

Class Oppression - Juli Because she was poor, she was often insulted by her rich employer who was also her relative She was raped by a friar

National Oppression - Lola ni Elias Underwent different forms of oppression when she was accused to be a criminal by her husband Had to result to prostitution to survive Witnessed the deteriorating society wherein her loved ones had to live

Racial Oppression - All female characters All women were treated badly by the Spaniards at the time Rape was used as a way to instill fear and lure women

RIZAL AND FEMINISM

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ARTICLE

LEGACY TO FILIPINO WOMEN WRITTEN BY FRANCENE LEE

“The Filipino woman no longer bows

Rizal tells us that Filipino women should know

her head and bends her knees; her

how to protect their dignity and honor, and are

hope in the future is revived” - Dr. Jose Rizal, The Young Women of Malolos

worthy to be educated and treated with respect. This essay continues to serve as an inspiration and reminder to all women of their worth, capability, and responsibility as a daughter, mother, and citizen of the

It was known that women were not exactly free and treated equally during the Spanish colonization. If you look at historical records and books during this time, it can be observed that women were barely mentioned and included to make it seem like they

Philippines.

Because Rizal was a liberal, his legacy to Filipino women is also shown through his

had no significance or contribution to society,

thesis that states that women have the

except they were only needed for “reproduction

capabilities to build or even destroy the

work’. Women were seen as incapable of thinking

country. Rizal believes that women have a

and have a low type of mentality, which was further

strong influence on the development of our

intensified when social classes were established

country. With all of these being said, women

according to Marx. However, Rizal was the first to

shouldn’t simply submit and depend solely on

break this impression through his writings and

their husbands as they are capable of building

thesis where he showed that women were as equally as strong and capable as all people.

Rizal’s legacy to filipino women is explicitly shown through his famous essay entitled “The Young Women of Malolos” where he addresses the filipino women on what they should always keep in mind up to this day.

their own future with the right education.

During this time, we should actively promote for the education of all women of all backgrounds and build the country together.

Women shouldn't be afraid in voicing out their opinion and exercise their rights as citizens because they are equally as strong, capable, and smart as all other people.

RIZAL'S

HERO

AND

Written by: Francene Lee

INSPIRATION Dr. Jose Rizal wouldn’t be our country’s national hero today without the guidance, support, and influence of his own mother, Teodora Alonso Realonda during his lifetime. His mother was said to be one of the greatest influence to his pursuits as she was Rizal’s very first teacher that established his foundations and values as a person. She also supported Rizal in providing him quality education where he was able to develop his skills and knowledge which was later used in his battle against the Spanish authorities.

Rizal greatly treasured and honoured his mother and her teachings, which we could attribute to his feminist beliefs as his mother served as a strong and capable woman all throughout his life. Being a mother of our national hero was certainly not an easy journey as she also experienced injustice twice in her life. She was unjustly arrested and humiliated when she was forced to walk all the way to her imprisonment. However, his mother continued to remain strong and would even worry about the well-being of Rizal and his siblings above her own. It was these incidents that drove and influenced Rizal to call for reforms in the country. Just like what Rizal stated in his thesis, women have the power to build or destroy a country as shown by his mother who drove Rizal to fight and free the oppressed Filipino citizens.

As also mentioned in his essay “The Young Women of Malolos”, Rizal also reminds us to honor and love our mothers as they have taught and built us to who we are today. As women, we are also inspired by Teodora Alonso and her immense love for our national hero and country.

Rizal and Feminism

RIZAL IN THE 21ST CENTURY

José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda: The Filipino Youth's Game-Changer, The Filipino Youth's LifeChanger.

Written by Courtney Tulio

RIZAL IN THE 21ST CENTURY

No Usual Superhero Do we need to be some Superman to consider ourselves a hero in the 21st Century?

Written by Courtney Tulio

We have come to realize that being a ‘hero’ can consist of things as simple as having a strong feeling with pride to our country and possessing nationalistic consciousness because of what we learn about Rizal’s life everyday. Over time, it has become safe to say that the new generations’ civic-mindedness has been molded to let Rizal’s heroism shine in the members of the youth even in the 21st century.

RIZAL UNDERNEATH HIS WORKS Viewing the life of Rizal and his contributions to Philippine history and nationalism, it has been established that he indeed embodies all the qualities a national hero may possess. However, he made sure that the mark he left on our country was not all about academic and/or professional excellence. If anything, he made sure to teach Filipinos that resilience will always prevail in any circumstance. He was also particular with the importance of one's love for family, respecting fellow countrymen, and giving without expecting anything in return. The values he left behind made Filipinos realize that success is nothing if not shared and if not rooted from good intentions.

DID YOU KNOW? We as a youth are faced with our own duties and responsibilities; may it be as a child of our parents, as a sibling, a student, a friend, or simply as a citizen of our country. A lot of the information we consume on a daily basis has put on a certain amount of pressure on us, especially with the use of social media, about how we qualify as a successful individual or when we get to say that we have made a significant impact on society. One might think that in order to be all those things, we need to metaphorically invent some cure for cancer or come up with a model of a flying car to make our mark on this world.

The fact that Dr. Jose Rizal is one of the Philippines’ most significant points of pride and its ever-influential national hero is nothing unknown to us—but how he and his heroism embarks on our country’s progress up to two centuries later is something beyond anybody’s imagination.

Our generation’s notion of a ‘hero’ where one needs to be ‘Batman’ or ‘Superman’ in order to come to somebody’s help has definitely changed ever since the mandated offering of ‘Life and Works of Rizal’ in the new General Education Curriculum in our country’s education system.

A fact is something that has really occurred or is actually the case. The usual test for a statement of fact is verifiability, that is, whether it can be demonstrated to correspond to experience.

SOURCE: WIKIPEDIA.COM

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RIZAL IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Written by Courtney Tulio

A HERO'S LOVE FOR FAMILY Jose Rizal demonstrates his affection for his family in a variety of ways as well. In an effort to treat his mother's eye ailment, he goes to various locations to learn about medicine as a way of demonstrating his love for her. Additionally, by writing letters to his mother Teodora, father Francisco, brother Paciano, and sisters, he expresses his profound love and concern for his family (Saturnina and Trinidad).

His final comments to his parents the evening before his execution, as reported by H. dela La Costa, SJ captures the hero's devotion to his family in 1961.

A HERO'S LOVE FOR FELLOW COUNTRYMEN The depth of Jose Rizal's patriotism for the homeland is amazing. For the poor Filipinos in particular, nationalism is a concept that is still hazy today despite its humble beginnings in 1872. However, we can follow in his footsteps by doing something as simple as helping those in need, practicing our right to vote, following our duties as citizens, and taking great pride in being a Filipino and the jewels of our country.

RIZAL IN THE 21ST CENTURY

Written by Courtney Tulio

A HERO'S GENEROSITY Jose Rizal spent most of his life teaching the poor and extending a helping hand to whoever needed his help; may it be monetary or with regards to his expertise.

This leaves us with the opportunity to offer our strengths to those in need, like our fellow students who do not have a wide access to the kind of education we are lucky to be experiencing in our university. Rizal teaches us to be generous and to give without expecting anything in return; and that in itself makes us a hero to somebody.

A HERO'S RESILIENCE There are many ways to look up to Jose Rizal especially when it comes to being a resilient person. It is practically selfexplanatory as he made his name for himself and showed the world that he deserved all the recognition he got during his time and this explains why his legacy lives on on a lot of literary pieces and of course, the Filipinos. It is safe to say that being a hero can always start from within us and what we do for ourselves to be sure that we use the best of our capabilities to give ourselves a bright future,

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AKDA

ACHIEVING

GREATNESS

THROUGH

HIS

OUR

RIZAL

TASK

TO

MAKE

PAANO MAGIGING LAOS SI RIZAL Our progression as a society and as a country may have been the slightest which is why Rizal’s works and ideas are still valid in today’s time, with its inspirational value relatable to our modern-day problems. As his works mirror the ills of our country for more than a century now, it reveals how we continue to neglect the dreams and aspirations he has for our dear country, the Philippines. To truly honor our national hero is to uproot the ills of our society and to actualize his teachings – to make Rizal obsolete.

In achieving greatness, we must eradicate the tulisanes in cadillacs, the one-armed bandits, and the Basilios in our midst; we must fix our borrowed defects and strengthen our defenses and intellectual captivity; we must mend our broken people; we must build a nation of Rizals who turn dreams into realities.

OBSOLENCE OBSOLETE.

BY: Nicole Pahud

Many characters from Rizal’s works, based on people during his time, are still evident in our time today. To name a few, tulisanes or Philippine bandits are the evil that run society in the past through deception and their corrupt ways in which today, we admire them for their practicality and resourcefulness. The one-armed bandits, government employees in

society, we must change and reevaluate our attitude and mindset as Filipinos.

Communicating and understanding each other is the best way to strengthen our defenses but how do we do this if we aren’t capable of constantly developing and patronizing our own language? According to Rizal, “Language is the thought of the

We have been busy and preoccupied in the pursuit of our personal goals and roles and that’s not necessarily a bad thing but it becomes a problem when it’s too much to the point that we lose interest and become ignorant on the issues around us that we become indifferent.

Moving forward, we must build a nation of Rizals who align

position and power, who continue to expedite matters for a certain

people”, but our lack of understanding and grasp of

personal interests into the interests of the greater good; we

price continue to exist and be patronized. Basilios, who may have

language is the biggest obstacle we face in gaining knowledge and

must become heroes, not to die for the country, but to exhibit

been admirable for innocence before, are weak and selfish people as they continue to silence

therefore expressing our thoughts.

Our traditions, values, and individuality as a nation are on the

dedication just like Rizal did so that we can turn his past ideals into a mirror of our past and not a

themselves on issues and matters

verge of becoming extinct and

criticism of our present. When we

that should be spoken up about for the greater good. There is a need for us to stop tolerating

forgotten. Treating foreigners are superior means giving them endless opportunities and

actualize Rizal’s teachings and ideas, we accomplish the task of making him obsolete – only then

these people and further criticize them for their actions so that we can build a society with people

privilege in a country not theirs; we forget that the Philippines is our and we should be the ones

will we achieve greatness.

who only truly work and serve for

developing it. As we change our

the betterment of our country.

attitude and mindset towards nationalism, we take a big step towards treating one of the

Eliminating these characters in our society can only do so much, but to really address the ills of

biggest ills of our society.

HOW DO WE ACHIEVE GREATNESS?

JUAN TAMAD: The Disincentivization of Filipinos Written by Chyna Tomas

Indolence, therefore, has more deeply rooted causes such as abuse and discrimination.

- Jose P. Rizal

The story of Juan Tamad is widely known across the nation, both by adults and children alike. A question we repeatedly ask is "Is Juan Tamad an accurate image of the Filipino people? Does he represent the past, present, and future generations? Or his story simply a representation of our line of thinking regarding work?"

Though Juan Tamad was meant to be a comedic piece of literature, we can surmise how the Filipino people identify with this identity.

Dr. Jose P. Rizal addresses this topic in his work, Sobre la indolencia de los filipinos or "The Indolence of the Filipinos".

Lessons from Rizal Rizal's exploratory essay "On the Indolence of the Filipinos" remain largely relevant in today neo-colonialistic society.

He discusses Eight major points as to why Filipinos had been so unmotivated to work during the Spanish rule, which made them appear lazy; though far from the truth.

Painting of Juan Tamad by Tam Austria Juan Tamad is a fictional fully-abled Filipino man capable of doing any kind of labor yet always chooses the easiest, laziest, and obviously the craziest path.

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The following are Rizal's arguements:

01.

The establishment of the Galleon Trade redirected all business to Spain through Mexico which cut off all other connections with other countries in Asia and the Middle East.

Hence, once flourishing businesses and industries gradually disappeared.

02.

Spain extinguished the natives’ love of work as forced labor was implemented.

Filipinos were compelled to work in shipyards, roads, and other public works, abandoning agriculture, industry, and commerce which had been thriving previously.

03.

Spain had failed to protect the Filipino people against foreign invaders and pirates; hence many natives were killed, their houses burned, and their lands destroyed. As a result of this, the Filipinos were forced to become nomads and lost interest in cultivating their lands or in rebuilding the industries that were shut down.

04.

The education system was in disarray. Schools taught repetitive prayers and knowledge with which students cannot use in leading the country to progress.

There were no courses in Agriculture, Industry, Commerce, and the like. All knowledge and profession sorely needed by the Philippines during those times.

05.

Spanish rulers despised manual labor themselves. Friars and officials reported to work at noon and left early. They are also seen doing nothing related to their duties. Spanish women were seen constantly followed by servants who dressed them and fanned them; doing personal things which they ought to have done for themselves.

06.

Government officials and friars engaged and propagated gambling such as cockfights.

Painting of Forced Labor of Spaniards to Filipinos by Janrex Karl Faelagmao

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Modern Indolence of Filipinos Filipinos in modern society, specifically those blue collar workers and manual labor workers, are seen as lazy and unwilling to work. However, if we follow Rizal's analysis, we can analyze if the actions of these laborers are intrinsic or is it also arising from a systematic issue?

Rather than saying "They are lazy", we can ask "Why are they unmotivated to work?".

There begins the analysis on the flawed system of the Phillippines.

Painting of First Easter Sunday Mass in the Philippines by Dionisio Gayo

07.

The false religious teachings of friars taught the naïve Filipinos that it was easier for a poor man to enter heaven, and so they preferred not to work and remain poor so that they could easily enter heaven after they died.

08.

Taxes were extremely high, so much so that a huge portion of what they earned went to the government or to the friars.

When the object of their labor was removed and they were exploited, they were reduced to inaction.

Overall, Rizal argues that the indolence of Filipinos was a systematic issue rather than an intrinsic characteristic of the people.

Photo of Sleeping Construction Workers in the Philippines by Shutterstock Editorial

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Photo of Minimum Wage Hike Protest in the Philippines by Jire Carreon

Minimum wage, bare minimum Similar to that of the Spanish rule, Filipinos are faced with a new kind of discrimination, though something far more hidden in the depths of our capitalistic country.

The battle with minimum wage has been long withstanding. It can be agreed by many that minimum wage in the country is barely livable. With the growing cost of rent, commodities, and transportation, many Filipinos are living below the poverty line. With no proper incentives to work harder, and seemingly to space for most blue collared workers in the Philippines, it can be said that they grow dissatisfied with their work. With no other option, their unmotivated nature appears to be indolence or laziness; but really, it is due to a systemic issue.

The issue that now stands is the correlation of being poor to being lazy, when really it is simply a lack of opportunities for the working poor. Especially in the Philippines where welfare is severely overlooked. Basic human necessities and freedoms cannot be afforded by many. Things like healthcare, food, education, housing; necessities for human life.

It is no wonder that Filipinos are "lazy".

Why bother scooping out the water in a sinking ship when the captain and his crew already have lifeboats for themselves. | 20

TAMAD BA? I THINK NOT! T u n g k o l

s a

K a t a m a r a n

n g

m g a

P i l i p i n o

By Ashtrid Tabitha Chua

Beginnings with the Spanish Colonization The Spaniards have instilled in our society a lot of new virtues, cultures, and religions. This also brought on new leaders and higher positions that abused their rule over Filipinos back then. Gone were the days of resting because of the hot season on the farm for rice plantations. Savage wars, invasions, and continuous forced labor were what Filipinos soon faced during the early days of the Spanish reign.

Lack of good government management also played a big role in the “laziness” of Filipinos. Previously well-managed crops and plantations are soon neglected and the government did not even try to develop the industry and failed to entice workers to be initiative in farming. Quality education was also very lacking and Filipinos were not able to benefit at all from the teachings of the friars. Overall, when the Spaniards invaded the Philippines a lot of our characteristics changed and developed. Soon we lost our national identity and national sentiment.

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Jose Rizal thought differently about the allegations against Filipinos and believed that the issue is even deeper than just pure laziness. What they found to be simple indolence or us being lazy, was the amalgamation of the hardships faced under the Spanish rule to fester and attack what was left of our passion for our country. Our spirit was beaten down to the lowest and not even the new faith acquired could help them rekindle this love.

His love showed a passion for his country and this drove his continual pursuit to give his countrymen a place that they could truly call home. He believes that the Philippines could do better and back then he wanted the people to realize that too. Sadly, until now the Philippines could still do better. Corruption still runs rampant in our government systems and it continues to slow down and give negative effects on the systems that our community needs to function. Other than that, our pride as Filipinos, the deep culture that we have is continually fading as we focus more and take an interest in other countries.

It turned out to be a Passionless Country

Recently, I found that more individuals are taking note of how our government is handling and managing our country. The youth especially have shown to be very passionate about the state of the Philippines. With the ongoing battle against COVID-19, it truly is hard to tell what the government plans to do next.

Honestly, seeing as the country’s core is already mishandled and messy, one could already make an opinion on why we are seen as “lazy”.

Nowadays, we have more freedom to do and act the way we want.

Although the lingering lack of passion is still found in many individuals.

Poverty is now one of the main factors as to why the majority of Filipinos are not at their fullest potential. Somehow the government is still lacking a lot of things to help the Philippines flourish. Furthermore, the Philippines never got to foster the agricultural sector again. We lost an industry that could have helped us sustain ourselves and our prided rice was soon outshone by other Asian countries.

Passion is a driving force. It pushes someone towards their goal and fullfils it. Jose Rizal had this among other good characteristics and it served him well in doing what he wanted for our country.

AKDA

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As they say, history always seems to repeat itself. Until now the Philippines suffers from bad governance and our culture and sense of nationalism fester in the dark. It seems that Jose Rizal’s teachings and experiences continue to serve as a guide in situations like this. I have noticed that as long as one person believes deeply in our country, this will ultimately start a domino effect that will infect more individuals.

One catalyst to start a big fire.

Passionate enough to encourage thousands of people that there can still be change and that the Philippines is not fully developed yet.

Nothing is too small when you are driven enough to enact an action that you believe will serve a positive effect on your country. The Philippines is our homeland, why should we focus on other countries when we can also have what they offer. Jose Rizal experienced a good life in Spain and he questioned “Why is the Philippines not like this and how can I make my countrymen also see this splendor?” His passion for the betterment of the Philippines is what started his fight against our oppressors. We should strive for the Philippines that nurtures everyone, our culture and heritage, our forgotten specialties, and of course the love for our country.

BE PASSIONATE AND BE THE SPARK! T u n g k o l AKDA

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WORKS OF JOSE RIZAL

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Written by Moira Sepeda Forging the nation in Dapitan In 1892, the Spanish authorities exiled Dr. Jose Rizal to a sleepy town in Mindanao called Dapitan in response to his subversive criticisms against Spain and the Catholic Church. Instead of being disheartened, the versatile nationalist from Calamba took this as an opportunity to transform his adopted town in line with his radical vision of human development and social justice, and with his philosophy of progressive education.

Talisay: The first school in Asia

progressive

In the first few weeks after his arrival in Dapitan, Rizal stayed in the house of the town’s military commandant, Capt.

Ricardo Carnicero, who would later become his friend. Rizal then won a Manila lottery with Carnicero and another Spaniard, and after receiving his share of the prize, he bought a

16-hectare piece of land in a coastal barrio called Talisay, just off the Dapitan poblacion.

Among the establishments Rizal built, one was a school for local boys who he described as mostly without money but with wits or intelligence. It was emphasized in the book that the education advocated by Rizal was not confined to the four walls of the classroom. Other than it being a figurative expression, it also meant that literally, students were tasked to go out to the woods and explore.

Individual differences among students, particularly Rizal's nephews, were acknowledged by the national hero and in turn, he adjusted his educational approach until he got his desired academic outputs from them. Not only that, but their physical and mental development were also observed.

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Other verses from the poem that were used against Rizal during his trial included the idea that "[their] hands can wield at the same time the knife, the pen, the spade, the pickaxe, the rifle, and the sword, companions of the strong man" and that "the arm [is] ready, and the face [is] serene", which appeared to be a call for revolutionary action. It was assumed that Rizal was training his students for a battle against the Spanish colony.

Nevertheless, producing good human beings who would serve the country is the primary goal of the progressive school in Talisay, and Rizal's Himno a Talisay pointed that out through its verses.

Of course, proper disciplinary actions and corrective measures were administered by the wards of the school to deal with troublesome kids.

Himno a Talisay Aside from building the school in Talisay, Rizal composed a beautiful poem titled Himno a Talisay in 1895, which he dedicated to his students.

One verse from the said poem goes as follows:

The problems of the exact sciences, of the history of the nation we study, three or four languages we speak harmonizing faith and reason. (Translated by Quibeyen)

This exact verse was used by the Spaniards as an evidence against Rizal, claiming that it subversively criticized the colonial educational system as it introduced a scientific inquiry method of learning.

Rizal's legacy and Dapitan today Despite Rizal's active work in Dapitan during his exile there, there were no any accolade, locally nor internationally, for him, up to this day. Although the progressive education system has transitioned to different universities and is now spearheading in Philippine education, the recognition is not given to Rizal's work in Talisay. The country is fixated in celebrating Rizal's death anniversary rather than his life and works, particularly during his arrival and stay in Dapitan. With that said, as young people having knowledge of this information about Rizal, we must tell this story to our peers and succeeding generations and learn from it.

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Written by Maria Cristina Asuncion H. Pilapil

UNCOVERING PATRIOTISM Philippine literature hails Rizal’s works as the fuel that ignited Philippine revolution against the Spanish colonizers.With his Pièce de résistance, Noli me Tangere, and, El Filibusterismo, the national hero never fell short with words especially when expressing his love for the country.

Walking among the greats, is the national hero’s first published essay under his pseudonym, Laong Laan, entitled El Amor Patrio. For some, El Amor Patrio may be lesser known, but this literature piece has surely captured the attention of many as it vividly shows the fervent desire of the young Rizal in making his countrymen realize the importance of patriotism and nationalism.

Rizal writes,

“Love of the country is perhaps the most constant of emotions, if there ever be anything constant in the human heart, and, it seems, will not leave us when in the tomb. In exile, at the prospect of an obscure grave, Napoleon remembered France, which he loved so dearly, and so willed that his remains be brought home in the sure hope of finding sweet repose in his native soil.”

It is depicted how Rizal puts great importance in making people realize how loving your homeland is not something one acquires, but what someone feels.

Through El Amor Patrio, Jose Rizal highlights that no matter the misfortune that the country has been through, it is still worthy of one’s nationalistic love and protection. Loving your own country was made to be indelible, one that cannot be forgotten nor stripped away. In the context of the events during the time of writing, it can be said that Rizal pens the article to remind the Filipino people that in the midst of oppression and tyranny, it is the best time to stand up for our motherland.

In the current situation of the country, some people tend to forget that patriotism does not solely lie on one’s belief that an individual’s vision of nationalism is a country that answers to a government or its leaders.

Instead, through El Amor Patrio, Rizal is sending out a signal to his fellow countrymen that the independence that one will enjoy, is through the sacrifices of those who chose to die in the name of patriotism.

Most importantly, Rizal reminds us that love for country must not be disguised by fanaticism as he writes,

“Love her, yes, not in the ways of old through rough deeds rejected and condemned by genuine morality and mother nature, but rather, by doing away with all display of fanaticism, destructiveness and cruelty.”

As a new leader approaches the bench, this is not the time to turn a blind eye just because we believe that patriotism and nationalism merely means unity. It is up to us, as citizens of the motherland, to take a closer look at principles of unity disguised as tyranny, and leadership concealed as dictatorship. | 27

Love, Rizal Written by Adrian Sevillana

"ANG HINDI MAGMAHAL SA SARILING WIKA, DAIG PA ANG HAYOP AT MALANSANG ISDA."

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"LOVE IS IN THE AIR" Truly everyone shows love to someone,

Rizal’s time was immensely different from

whether to one’s special someone, parents,

today’s time. Digitalization brought about

siblings, or friends. There is always a specific

more than just ease of daily activities. It also

love that people show to those parts of one’s

brought in a new way of thinking and even

life. Even with special objects, people show

more access to almost all information. It is

their love by taking care of them. Sometimes

easy to understand the words “love your

people have their favorite things, kids with

country” but it equates differently to actually

their favorite ball, students with their favorite

applying it in one’s daily life. With this, here

pen. With all the love that is happening all

are some of the more specific ways to love

around, there is still this one specific love that

one’s country.

is oftentimes forgotten by most. This is the love for the country.

Rizal’s time was immensely different from today’s time. Digitalization brought about

Rizal exemplified in being an example of

more than just ease of daily activities. It also

loving one’s country by him being the national

brought in a new way of thinking and even

hero of the Philippines. In fact, even before

more access to almost all information. It is

Rizal’s creation of his famous Noli Me Tangere

easy to understand the words “love your

and El Filibusterismo, he made previous works

country” but it equates differently to actually

that showed his love for the Philippines. One

applying it in one’s daily life. With this, here

of his earliest works is his essay entitled “El

are some of the more specific ways to love

Amor Patrio” or Love for Country. From the

one’s country.

title itself, the work discusses how to love one’s country. Rizal showed some ways of thinking

to

even

further

the

readers'

appreciation for his/her country, such as comparing one’s country to foreign countries.

The work exemplifies giving the thought of one’s love for one country, but how do you actually show your love for your country? | 29

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VOTING WISELY One of the very recent events in the Philippines is the 2022 Elections. The most looked on position of course is the seat of the president, and amongst the top presidential candidates are Vice President Leni Robredo, former Senator Bongbong Marcos, Manila Mayor Isko Moreno, Senator Panfilo “Ping” Lacson, and Senator Manny Pacquiao. Among the top two contenders are Ferdinand “Bongbong” Marcos Jr. and Leni Robredo. While Marcos leads the opinion polls and nationwide surveys, the dictator’s son is suspected of clearing his family’s past employing the position (Petty, 2022). On another hand, Leni Robredo is being accused of becoming a puppet for the Aquinos and the United States (Tiglao, 2022). While all of these are not confirmed, information makes it difficult for registered voters to decide on whom to shade on their ballots. The weight of the responsibility for the voters becomes heavier, the responsibility of educating and investigating the truth for the best of the country. Accepting and fulfilling this responsibility is a way for the voters to be able to show their love for the country, just like a father investigating if a man is right for his daughter.

The responsibility does not stop with knowing who the best presidential candidate is. The other positions in the government should also be taken into account. Alongside studying who the best candidate is for the other positions, citizens should also be aware of the current political events in the country. This will help aid in understanding if the current government and those in the position are doing a good job.

BEING AN ACTIVE CITIZEN Generally, citizens should not only be aware of the current political events. Instead, citizens should be aware of the current events

GOING TO NATIONAL MUSEUMS

regarding the country as a whole. Just like how

AND PARKS

parents know all happenings about their

A more feasible way of showing love for

children, citizens could also show love like this.

One should also respect the country like how

the

country

is

supporting

its

national

people respect each other. Examples of which

landmarks such as the Philippines’ national

include stopping when the national anthem of

museums and national parks. They do offer not

the Philippines is played and properly using

only entertainment but also essential and

the Philippine flag. The acts of respect like

factual information about the past. It gives its

those mentioned are a way to show that you

audience a glimpse of history through its

love and appreciate the country.

displays. Here are some of the national landmarks you can visit:

NATIONAL MUSEUM OF NATURAL HISTORY NATIONAL MUSEUM OF ANTHROPOLOGY MUSEO PAMBATA RIZAL PARK / THE PLANETARIUM

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Where to go?

NATIONAL

NATIONAL

MUSEUM OF

MUSEUM OF

ANTHROPOLOGY

NATURAL HISTORY

While the building was already existing during the Second World War, it was rebuilt in 1949 due to the damage it took because of the war. Located near Luneta, this odd trapezium-designed building has five floors together with new buildings on the west and east side of the main building. Its big hallways and stairways make the museum an ideal place for reflection. As of this day, the building houses the Philippine prehistoric items of proof to the country’s underwater and terrestrial archeological collections.

These serve as a reflection of the culture of the islands in the Philippines. For example, exhibits of the Lumads and Ifugao are on display. Real warships could also be seen in the San Diego Exhibition.

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The building of the National Museum of Natural History was built in 1940. Its symmetrical design was an office for government officials before it was destroyed because of the American war. After then, the building was rehabilitated to keep its historical value and so became a museum. One of its most famous attractions is the taxidermy and skeleton of the world-breaking crocodile “Lolong”. It also houses various flowers, plants, and animal life unique to the Philippines.

MUSEO PAMBATA Museo Pambata, as the name implies, is for the younger who have a more active mind. The museum integrates Philippine history with interactive and fun features to keep the children entertained. There are seven themed rooms for the youth to enjoy while learning about the country’s cultural heritage and environment. The kids could also explore who they want to be in the future as there is a career section in the museum. This museum is perfect for the young and young-at-heart.

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RIZAL PARK / THE PLANETARIUM Last but not least, the iconic Rizal Park has 60 hectares of open space where people could enjoy picnics and dates surrounded by beautiful gardens and other plants. It also holds significance since this is where Jose Rizal was executed. The perfect time to enjoy Rizal Park is from the late afternoon until the late evening wherein the sunset can be enjoyed. There is also a Central Lagoon with a bunch of Filipino heroes and a dancing musical fountain at night. Some group of people could also be seen in the park training the Philippines’ local martial art Arnis De Mano or commonly known as Arnis. This is also an optimal place because of its accessibility to the National Museum and The Planetarium. The area is packed with plenty of historical significance while keeping the fun.

What if your partner does not do anything to make you feel loved? What would you feel? What if you do not show your love to them? What would they feel? Or what if your parents stopped showing love to you? Just like relationships, we should also love our dearest motherland. We would not get the freedom we have now if not for those who sacrificed themselves for our freedom, in the vein of Jose Rizal. Let us show our love and support for the country that became part of who we are.

References: Petty, M. (2022, February 8). Explainer: A guide to the Philippines 2022 election. Reuters. https://www.reuters.com/world/asia-pacific/guide-philippines2022-election-2022-02-08/ Tiglao, R. (2022, May 6). Do not vote for a US puppet! The Manila Times. https://www.manilatimes.net/2022/05/06/opinion/columns/do-not-vote-for-a-uspuppet/1842546

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"Ignorance is servitude, because as a man thinks, so he is; a man who does not think for himself and allowed himself to be guided by the thought of another is like the beast led by a halter."

DR. JOSE RIZAL

JULY 2022 | VOL. 1

AKDA INDEPENDENCE DAY EDITION

The Life and Works of Dr. Jose Rizal GERIZAL Y20 GROUP 4 MEMBERS: ASHTRID TABITHA CHUA WENDYL BEATRIZ QUE CHUA KRISTINE ROSE CRUZILLO ERIKA LOUISE GOLEZ FRANCENE JOYCE TAN LEE NICOLE BEATRICE DE LEON PAHUD

MARIA CRISTINA ASUNCION PILAPIL MOIRA RAFAELLE CASTANEDA SEPEDA ADRIAN MIGUEL CAMINA SEVILLANA CHYNA TOMAS COURTNEY LOVE TULIO