When people think of the Philippines, one of the first names that comes to mind is José Rizal. He is considered the face of the nation because he stood for the Filipino people during a time when they had very little voice. Rizal did not come from power or wealth, but he used his intelligence, compassion, and love for his country to speak out against injustice.
Rizal’s greatest contribution to Philippine society was awakening the Filipino sense of nationalism. Through his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, he showed the harsh realities of life under Spanish rule. These stories were painful but honest, allowing Filipinos to see their struggles reflected on the page. Because of this, many began to realize that what they were experiencing was wrong and that change was possible.
What makes Rizal truly admirable is that he believed change should come through education and peaceful reform. He valued learning and moral character, believing that an educated nation could never remain oppressed forever. His essays and letters encouraged Filipinos to think for themselves, respect one another, and love their country in meaningful ways.
Rizal’s execution in 1896 only strengthened his impact. Instead of silencing him, his death inspired courage and unity among Filipinos. Today, Rizal remains a powerful symbol of peaceful resistance and national pride, reminding us that true heroism can come from words, ideas, and unwavering love for one’s country.
I really loved it when you put the picture of his self portrait! Good job
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