SAN BEDA UNIVERSITY

College of Arts and Sciences

Summative Essay for The Philippine Century Hence

Submitted in Partial Fulfillment of the Requirements of the Course

RIZAL

Submitted By:

Cabusay, Peter James R.

Enrico, Mikhael Caine H.

Nabaunag, Francis Lehrend G.

Yumang, Louise Gabriel L.

Academic Year 2023 – 2024

Ms. Naomi Genares

The Philippines a Century Hence

 The national hero of the Philippines, Jose Rizal, wrote an essay titled "The Philippines a
Century Hence" in which he made predictions about the country's destiny one hundred years
from now. In Rizal's opinion, the time had come to remind Spain that the events leading up to
the French Revolution might have a significant impact on her in the Philippines.

The book begins with Rizal reflecting on his memories of the Philippines. Here, Rizal
illustrated how the Spanish colonization of the Philippines changed the country. Under the
conquerors' control, the former leader of the Philippines hoped that his people would advance
while they were under their control. In an attempt to more easily adapt to new and foreign
ideologies that they do not fully comprehend, Filipinos are rapidly forgetting and neglecting their
ethnic culture, music, poems, and beliefs. Their own culture is even denied to them, and they feel
embarrassed. Until their hearts and brains are taken over, they willfully laud and abuse anything
that came from the conquerors. Years later, the religion that had sprung up again exploited the
worship of God as a means of convincing and finally imposing the rule of the Spaniards on the
Filipino people. when the Filipino people were converted into slaves to help conquerors build
Spain, abused like animals, and deprived of their minds and emotions. caused the Filipino
people's long-suppressed emotions to come to life by bringing back memories of their suffering
and humiliation. Because of the ongoing exploitation and demonization of conquerors, some
people are becoming more aware of the reality of their violence and oppression, and this will
eventually drive the majority of people to become more enlightened. We've come to understand
the value of the Philippines to Dr. Rizal after reading this work. Despite knowing that he would
not be staying long, he was nevertheless quite concerned about the country. Analyzing the past in
the first section makes our group feel sorry for the Filipinos who endured suffering and even
gave their life to ensure the welfare of others. They were compelled to accept Spanish culture.
When comparing the Philippines from 1889 to the present, it is clear that the former was much
more oppressed than the latter. Filipinos were even considered "blind" since they failed to
recognize or comprehend that the Spaniards were merely exploiting them. Instead of growing,
the Philippines significantly regressed. We also owe Dr. Jose Rizal gratitude for enlightening the
Filipino people about the state of their economy.
 The second section discusses how Spain's colonial policy failed to further the Philippines'
development. Here is a statement of the Philippines' situation during the last 300 years, starting
in 1889. The nation offers independence to those who desire it. Seeing the confusion and
conflict, others have made the decision to embrace freedom no matter what the future brings.
The state of the nation has not improved in the eyes of liberal Spaniards, but it has improved for
the friars. Although it was uncomfortable, the Spaniards continued to manage the Philippines.
There is military force, poor communication between Mexico and Spain, and difficult missions
since the seas are rife with pirates and Spanish enemies. The state of the nation was substantially
improved in 1889. The leadership in the military and civil spheres is well organized. There is
more dependable, quicker, and easier communication. According to Rizal, the Philippines was
peaceful during the first years of Spanish rule. Officially, the Filipinos are now part of the
Philippine military. An Indian might become an encomendero, or army general. Defamation has
no place here, and no one is offended. Everything positive related to the nation's advancement is
no longer there. Slavery, exploitation, and intimidation take the role of the government.

In the third section, it was suggested that if the Philippines remained a Spanish colony,
drastic and political reforms would be needed. If harshly implemented and driven by the average
citizen, the reforms in the Philippines will be successful. To better serve the demands of the
populace, governmental policies must be modified. If the work on an authority comes from
reformation, then it will be successful and in order. Rizal expressed his thoughts and forecasts
for the future in the final section and his letter to Spain.

RELEVANCE OF THE DOCUMENT IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

AND 21ST CENTURY

The necessity of Filipinos embracing their cultural heritage and history is emphasized
in Rizal's "The Philippine Century Hence". He set the basis for nationalism by supporting self-
identity. This emotion fostered the yearning for independence as well as the rejection of foreign
dominance.

Despite his strong anti-colonial attitude, Rizal never overtly advocated for an imminent and
violent revolt against the Spanish colonial authority. In "The Philippines a Century Hence," Rizal
articulated his conviction that Filipinos should bear the sufferings inflicted by the Spaniards
since the country was not yet ready for a victorious revolt. He advocated education and reform
as a method of preparing the country for ultimate self-government.
Nonetheless, historical events played out differently, and the Philippine Revolution did
occur. While Rizal's vision did not immediately inspire a call to arms, his writings indirectly
contributed to mounting discontent and hopes for freedom, which culminated in the revolt
against Spanish authority. The final revolt highlighted the intricacies of historical factors as well
as Filipinos' diverse responses to colonial tyranny.

Rizal's writings, especially "The Philippines a Century Hence," laid the groundwork for the
formation of a national identity. He saw a future in which education and enlightenment would
result in a self-governing community. This vision, which was based on his works, motivated
future generations to fight for freedom.

Rizal's push for reforms, as well as his ideals on education and civic virtue, indirectly aided
the independence cause. His vision of a free and self-sufficient Philippines became a rallying
point for those seeking independence from colonial authority.

In the Philippines, Rizal's writings and ideas are still appreciated. Rizal Day and other
commemorative activities recognize his achievements to the country. His works are studied in
schools as part of the curriculum, emphasizing ideals like as patriotism, justice, and love of
country.
Rizal is regarded as the Philippines' national hero. His life and ideas have been
incorporated into the educational system, helping to shape the minds of Filipino pupils. Rizal's
recognition as a national hero fosters the principles of courage, self-sacrifice, and the desire of
liberty.

Rizal addressed the themes of corruption and social inequality during Spanish colonial
authority in "The Philippines a Century Ago." To solve these difficulties, he emphasized the
importance of political and educational changes. Rizal's insights on systemic difficulties of his
period correlate with modern challenges faced by the Philippines, where corruption and social
injustice remain major issues.
The importance of Filipinos embracing their cultural heritage and history is emphasized in
Rizal's essay. He promoted a feeling of national identity based on knowledge of the Philippines'
rich cultural heritage. This urge to embrace and preserve Filipino culture and heritage is still
pertinent today, as the country grapples with the effects of globalization and the desire to define
a distinct identity.
 Rizal was an outspoken supporter of education as a method of educating the masses. In
"The Philippines a Century Hence," he underlined the transforming role of education in
developing a self-governing community. This advocate for education as a means of
enlightenment is consistent with current initiatives to improve educational institutions in order to
solve societal concerns and promote national development.
Rizal's perspective emphasized the necessity of quality education in the development of
people and the nation. The importance of great education as a fundamental engine of growth
remains critical today. Efforts to raise educational standards, make them more accessible, and
make them more relevant coincide with Rizal's vision of education as a catalyst for constructive
society change.

THOUGHTS TO PONDER

That a revolution will take place when people begin to realize their rights and the
government doesn't act accordingly. All that is required of people is the exercise of their human
rights, after which they may choose to declare their independence. In terms of the free press, we
require it to express our grievances and recommendations for the nation's reform. Additionally, it
will help the administration stay abreast of public sentiment.

Finally, the harsh lessons and hard teachings that these conflicts will have given the
Filipino people will work to enhance and strengthen their ethical nature. The Philippines can be
confident that no Western nation will dare to take up what Spain was unable to hold if they are
able to secure their independence through valiant and stubborn conflicts.
References:

Rizal, J. (1912). The Philippines a century hence.

Rizal, J. (2021). The Philippines a century hence: The Philippines a century hence: Jose Rizal's

insightful vision of the country's future.

Jose, R. (1901). Philippines a century hence.

Rizal, J. (n.d.). The Philippines a century hence.

https://www.gutenberg.org/files/35899/35899-h/35899-h.htm

Gondong, J. A. (2022b). A reflection paper on the Philippines a century

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university/bsed-english/the-philippines-a-century-hence/49955897