"Noli Me Tangere"

Noli Me Tangere, written by the national hero of the Philippines, Dr. Jose Rizal, serves as a
significant literary masterpiece that continues to leave an indelible mark on the Filipino society.
The novel, published in 1887, explores the social, political, and religious landscape during the
Spanish colonization era. Its impact resonates deeply within the hearts of Filipinos, as it sheds
light on the injustices and abuses suffered by the Filipino people under Spanish rule. One of the
most significant impacts of Noli Me Tangere lies in its ability to awaken the Filipino
consciousness and ignite a sense of nationalism among its readers. Rizal, through powerful
storytelling and vivid character portrayals, exposes the realities of the oppressive regime. The
novel delves into the corruption within the government, the exploitation of the Filipino people,
and the moral degradation prevalent during that time.

Moreover, Noli Me Tangere serves as a catalyst for social change, stirring the Filipino people to
fight against the injustices they faced. Rizal's characterization of Juan Crisostomo Ibarra, the
protagonist, reflects the Filipino struggle for emancipation. Ibarra's relentless pursuit of justice
and reform embodies the hope and resilience of the Filipino people, gradually inspiring them to
rise from their passive state.

Noli Tangere Translated from Latin to English as “Touch Me Not”, this literary piece was
written by Dr. Jose Rizal in 1887 which made great influence on the Filipinos during the Spanish
regimeand even until now. Originally, the English translation of the title was “The Social
Cancer”. Rizaldedicated this novel to the Philippines in hope to expose the abuse and malicious
deeds ofSpanish officials residing in the country. Rizal also hoped that through this
novel, the government of Spain will be aware of the current situation of the Philippines and grant
newreforms for the betterment and progress of the country and its people, so he used
Spanishlanguage to write it. The novel offers a panoramic view of every level of
society in the Philippines during that time, exposing corrupt friars using the Catholic Religion an
instrumentfor enriching and perpetuating themselves in power by seeking mire ignorant
Filipinos infanaticism and superstitions,and criticizations of the happenings in country under
Spaniardrulings. All the characters in the novel portrayed depictions of the Filipinos during
Spanishcolonization. The main character itself, Crisostomo Ibarra, liberated, outspoken, and
idealisticman who represent the ilustrados, privileged youth, and Filipinos who desire the
betterment andindependence for the country and reflects Rizal. His character was used by Rizal
to voice out hisideas regarding the colonialism, corruptions, and anti-clerical views. Another
character relevant to the novel is Padre Salvi who represents the manipulative and abusive friars
who uses their power and words of God to molest and exploit young women. He embodies the
rotten state ofclergy also sinful individuals who takes advantage of illiterates. Lastly, Sisa, the
loving motherwho became an outcast when her sons gone missing. She personified then
sufferings of the Motherland because of the ill-treatment, injustices, and violence that
Spaniards did to the Filipinos. These characters were based in real-life events that inspired
Rizal to divulge Spaniards’ maltreatment.

Rizal firmly believed that education is important in fighting off oppression. Filipinos’ ignorance
and naivety made them easy to be manipulated and targeted for cruelty. Education paved the way
for Crisostomo to build a school for the youth and to be heard by other influential people.
However, even with his good intention, Crisostomo was undoubtedly still unaware of just how
grave the oppression his fellow Filipinos faced until Elias showed it to him. Another highly
educated character in the novel was Tasio. Although having acquired education, he was ousted
by society because of different ideals.

Religion is a significant topic in the novel because, despite its divine presentation, it was used to
control others and profit off other people’s weaknesses.The Spaniards and friars used
Catholicism to instill hierarchy and took advantage of the Filipinos through their faith and
ignorance, even if they themselves didn’t carry out the teachings. Padre Damaso held a revered
position as a former curate and was looked up to by people who take their religion seriously. But
he raped Doña Pia Alba and sent Don Rafael to prison for his personal vendetta. Padre Salvi,
although a priest, lusted after Maria Clara and didn’t respect his priesthood. He only became a
priest to hold power, not to save souls. Capitan Tiago pretends to be a devoted Catholic by being
close to the friars but actually just does it to have more connections and power. On the other
hand, there are also those who are serious about their faith yet aware of the unreasonable
demands of the church. Don Rafael, Crisostomo, and Elias have strong faith.
The story described real-life occurrences during Spanish colonization in the Philippines, such as
Friars' command choices being more powerful than the Governor-General's, social concerns,
unfairness, and the Philippines being a backward country. The novel's issues touch today's
society and country, so everyone should read Noli Me Tangere. Corruption, injustice, poverty,
and abuse are still issues today.

Noli Me Tangere tells us to reflect on our country's deeds and principles. The novel's themes of
nationalism and accepting change still apply today. We must support our country by obeying the
law, promoting Philippine culture, and working together to develop it. It teaches us wisdom,
righteousness, and patriotism. This novel is taught in schools to teach students how to love their
nation and empower them to be catalysts for change. Jose Rizal wants us to be authentic
Filipinos who know who we are and what our actual aims are.

Noli Me Tangere encourage Filipinos to fight against colonizers and is a reminder of our history
today. The story's characters and events reflect Filipino culture, life, and beliefs. This literary
masterpiece will instill in us the principles needed to be a positive role model for our country.
This literary work will help us understand nationalism and spark change.
 "El Filibusterismo"

José Rizal's El Filibusterismo, a sequel to Noli Me Tangere, is not merely a novel; it's a potent
indictment of the oppressive Spanish colonial regime in the Philippines and a chilling prophecy
of the revolution to come. While Noli Me Tangere focused on the insidious nature of colonial
control through subtle means, El Filibusterismo depicts a society pushed to the brink, resorting to
violence and revolution as the only viable path to freedom. This reflection will delve into the
novel's complex themes, characters, and enduring relevance in understanding the struggle for
national identity and self-determination.

The stark difference between the two novels is immediately apparent. Noli Me Tangere
presented a relatively hopeful, albeit naive, approach to reform, believing in the possibility of
change through peaceful means. El Filibusterismo, however, is steeped in disillusionment.
Crisostomo Ibarra, the idealistic protagonist of Noli Me Tangere, returns as Simoun, a wealthy
jeweler, his spirit hardened by years of exile and the unyielding oppression he witnessed. His
transformation symbolizes the shift from reformism to revolution, a stark acknowledgment that
peaceful appeals have been met with deaf ears and brutal suppression. Simoun's meticulously
planned rebellion, though ultimately unsuccessful, highlights the desperation and frustration that
fueled the burgeoning revolutionary movement. The novel doesn't glorify violence; instead, it
portrays its devastating consequences and the moral ambiguities inherent in the fight for
liberation.

The characters in El Filibusterismo are not simply individuals; they are allegorical
representations of the various facets of Philippine society under colonial rule. Simoun, the
revolutionary mastermind, embodies the unwavering determination to fight for freedom, even at
the cost of immense sacrifice. His methods, however, are ruthless and morally questionable,
reflecting the complexities of revolutionary struggle. Padre Camorra, the corrupt friar,
represents the religious hypocrisy and abuse of power that characterized the colonial
administration. His greed and cruelty serve as a stark reminder of the church's complicity in the
oppression of the Filipino people. Basilio and Isagani, representing the younger generation,
embody the conflicting ideals of revolution and reform. Basilio's pragmatic approach to
revolution, driven by personal grief and a desire for justice, contrasts with Isagani's more
idealistic and pacifist stance. This internal conflict within the revolutionary movement
underscores the inherent tensions and disagreements that often arise during periods of social
upheaval.

Rizal masterfully employs symbolism and allegory throughout the novel to convey his message.
The jewels Simoun sells are not simply commodities; they represent the wealth extracted from
the Philippines by the colonizers. His planned explosion, meant to ignite a revolution,
symbolizes the potential for widespread chaos and destruction inherent in violent uprisings. The
characters themselves are symbolic figures, representing various social classes and ideologies
within Philippine society. The use of symbolism adds layers of meaning to the narrative, making
it a rich and multifaceted exploration of the complexities of colonial rule and the struggle for
national liberation. This allegorical approach allows Rizal to critique the colonial system
without explicitly naming names, thus avoiding direct censorship while still delivering a
powerful message.

El Filibusterismo remains remarkably relevant today. The themes of oppression, corruption, and
the struggle for self-determination resonate deeply in contemporary societies grappling with
similar challenges. The novel's exploration of the moral ambiguities of revolution continues to
spark debate and discussion. The question of whether violent means can ever justify a noble end
remains a central theme in political discourse, and El Filibusterismo forces readers to confront
this complex dilemma. The novel's enduring legacy lies in its ability to inspire critical thinking
about power, justice, and the human cost of oppression. It serves as a reminder that the fight for
freedom is often a long and arduous journey, fraught with moral complexities and difficult
choices.

El Filibusterismo is not simply a historical novel; it's a timeless call to action. It challenges
readers to confront the injustices of the world and to actively participate in the struggle for a
more just and equitable society. The novel's enduring power lies in its ability to provoke critical
reflection and inspire hope, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. It serves as a powerful
testament to the human spirit's capacity for resilience and the unwavering pursuit of freedom,
even when the path is fraught with peril and uncertainty. The novel's message remains as
pertinent today as it was during Rizal's time, serving as a constant reminder of the importance of
fighting for justice and equality. Its exploration of the complexities of revolution and the moral
ambiguities inherent in the struggle for liberation continues to resonate with readers across
generations, making it a truly enduring masterpiece of Philippine literature. The novel's
enduring power lies in its ability to spark dialogue and encourage critical thinking about the
enduring challenges of colonialism, oppression, and the pursuit of freedom. It compels readers
to examine their own beliefs and values, prompting a deeper understanding of the sacrifices
made in the fight for national identity and self-determination. The message of El Filibusterismo
transcends its historical context, offering a timeless reflection on the human condition and the
ongoing struggle for social justice.
 "A La Juventud Filipina"

José Rizal's "A La Juventud Filipina" ("To the Filipino Youth"), a powerful poem written in
1879, transcends its historical context to become a timeless testament to the Filipino spirit, a
fervent call for national progress, and a stirring ode to the potential of the youth. This reflection
will explore the poem's multifaceted themes, its enduring relevance, and its impact on shaping
Filipino identity and aspirations.

"A La Juventud Filipina" is not merely a celebration of youth; it's a clarion call to action. Rizal,
a young man himself at the time of writing, recognized the immense potential of the Filipino
youth and urged them to embrace their responsibilities in shaping the nation's future. The poem's
vibrant imagery and passionate tone evoke a sense of urgency, urging the youth to rise above the
limitations imposed by colonial rule and to actively contribute to the advancement of their
country. This call to action is not limited to political activism; it encompasses intellectual,
moral, and social progress, urging the youth to strive for excellence in all aspects of life.

The poem masterfully interweaves themes of patriotism and progress. Rizal's love for his
country is palpable in every line, but his patriotism is not blind or simplistic. It's a patriotism
rooted in a deep understanding of the nation's potential and a desire to see it flourish. The poem
doesn't shy away from critiquing the shortcomings of Filipino society, but this critique is not
intended to discourage; rather, it serves as a catalyst for self-improvement and national
advancement. Rizal's vision is not one of mere national pride, but of a nation that actively strives
for progress, embracing education, innovation, and moral excellence.

Education is presented as a crucial element in achieving national progress. Rizal emphasizes the
importance of cultivating intellectual prowess and moral integrity, urging the youth to seek
knowledge and wisdom. The poem's imagery of a bright future, illuminated by the light of
knowledge, underscores the transformative power of education in shaping individuals and the
nation as a whole. This emphasis on education is not merely about acquiring knowledge; it's
about fostering critical thinking, creativity, and a commitment to social responsibility. Rizal's
vision of a progressive Philippines is inextricably linked to the empowerment of its people
through education.
The poem's powerful imagery, particularly the metaphor of the eagle, symbolizes the Filipino
youth's potential for greatness. The eagle, a creature of strength, grace, and soaring ambition,
represents the aspirations of the Filipino nation. Rizal's use of this powerful symbol underscores
his belief in the inherent capabilities of the Filipino people and their capacity to overcome
adversity and achieve remarkable feats. The eagle's flight represents the nation's journey
towards progress, its ascent towards a brighter future.

"A La Juventud Filipina" continues to resonate deeply in contemporary Filipino society. The
poem's themes of patriotism, progress, and the importance of education remain as relevant today
as they were in Rizal's time. The challenges faced by the Philippines—poverty, inequality,
corruption—are different in form but share a common root with the colonial oppression Rizal
witnessed. The poem's call for national unity, moral excellence, and the pursuit of knowledge
remains a powerful source of inspiration for Filipinos striving to build a better future for their
country. The poem's message transcends its historical context, offering timeless wisdom
applicable to any nation striving for progress and self-determination.

"A La Juventud Filipina" is more than just a poem; it's a legacy. It has served as a source of
inspiration for generations of Filipinos, motivating them to strive for excellence and to contribute
to the betterment of their nation. The poem's enduring power lies in its ability to evoke a sense
of national pride, to inspire hope, and to remind Filipinos of their responsibility to shape their
own destiny. It is a testament to the power of poetry to inspire social change and to awaken the
conscience of a nation.

"A La Juventud Filipina" is a timeless masterpiece that continues to inspire and challenge. It's a
poem that speaks to the heart of the Filipino spirit, celebrating the potential of the youth and
urging them to embrace their responsibility in building a better future for their nation. The
poem's enduring power lies in its ability to transcend its historical context, offering a message of
hope, progress, and national unity that remains relevant in the 21st century. It serves as a
powerful reminder of the importance of education, moral integrity, and the unwavering pursuit of
a just and prosperous society. Rizal's words continue to resonate, urging Filipinos to embrace
their potential and to strive for a future worthy of their heritage and aspirations. The poem's
enduring impact is a testament to the power of words to inspire action, to awaken the conscience,
and to shape the destiny of a nation. The legacy of "A La Juventud Filipina" is not just a literary
achievement; it's a call to action, a constant reminder of the responsibility of every generation to
build a better future for the Philippines. The poem's enduring message of hope and progress
serves as a beacon, guiding Filipinos towards a future where the nation's potential is fully
realized and its people live in peace, prosperity, and unity. The poem's timeless relevance
underscores the enduring need for patriotism, education, and a commitment to building a just and
equitable society.
 "Sobre la Indolencia de los Filipinos"

José Rizal's "Sobre la Indolencia de los Filipinos" ("On the Indolence of the Filipinos"), an essay
published in 1890, is a complex and multifaceted work that transcends a simple critique of
Filipino work ethic. It delves into the socio-economic and political realities of the Philippines
under Spanish colonial rule, offering a nuanced analysis of the factors contributing to what Rizal
perceived as apparent indolence. This reflection will explore the essay's complexities, its
historical context, and its enduring relevance in understanding the challenges faced by the
Philippines then and now.

Rizal's essay is not a simplistic condemnation of Filipino character. Instead, he presents a

nuanced argument, acknowledging the complexity of the issue and meticulously examining the
various factors that contributed to what he observed. He doesn't dismiss the possibility of
inherent laziness, but he argues that this is not the primary cause. Instead, he points to the
systemic oppression and exploitation imposed by the Spanish colonial regime as the root cause
of what appeared to be indolence. This is a crucial distinction, as it shifts the focus from
individual failings to systemic issues that hindered progress and stifled the Filipino people's
potential.

Rizal masterfully contextualizes his observations within the broader framework of Spanish
colonialism. He meticulously details the oppressive policies, economic exploitation, and social
injustices that systematically undermined the Filipinos' ability to thrive. The encomienda
system, forced labor, and the extraction of wealth by the Spanish colonial administration left the
Filipinos impoverished and disempowered. Rizal argues that under such conditions, it's not
surprising that productivity and ambition were suppressed. The essay serves as a powerful
indictment of the colonial system, revealing how it created a vicious cycle of poverty and
dependency that hindered the Filipinos' progress.

Rizal's analysis points to economic exploitation as a primary factor contributing to the perceived
indolence. He highlights the unfair trade practices, the lack of opportunities for Filipinos to
participate in the economy, and the systematic extraction of resources by the Spanish colonizers.
He argues that the Filipinos were denied access to education, technology, and capital, leaving
them with limited opportunities for economic advancement. This economic disempowerment
Rizal contends, directly impacted their work ethic and their ability to improve their living
conditions. The essay serves as a powerful critique of the colonial economic system, exposing
its inherent inequalities and its devastating impact on the Filipino people.

Rizal's analysis extends beyond economic factors, examining the social and political structures
that contributed to the perceived indolence. He highlights the lack of political representation, the
suppression of Filipino culture and language, and the pervasive corruption within the colonial
administration. These factors, Rizal argues, created a climate of apathy and discouragement,
further hindering the Filipinos' ability to participate actively in their own development. The
essay reveals how the colonial system created a web of oppression that stifled individual
initiative and collective progress.

Rizal doesn't offer a pessimistic outlook. He emphasizes the importance of education and
empowerment as crucial steps towards overcoming the challenges faced by the Filipinos. He
argues that access to education, coupled with the development of Filipino industry and
entrepreneurship, is essential for fostering a culture of hard work and productivity. This
emphasis on education and self-reliance underscores Rizal's belief in the Filipinos' inherent
potential and their capacity to overcome adversity. The essay serves as a call for reform, urging
the Filipinos to embrace education and self-determination as pathways to progress.

"Sobre la Indolencia de los Filipinos" remains remarkably relevant today. The essay's themes of
economic inequality, political oppression, and the challenges of development continue to
resonate in contemporary societies grappling with similar issues. Rizal's analysis of the
interconnectedness of economic, social, and political factors in shaping a nation's progress
provides a valuable framework for understanding the complexities of development. The essay
serves as a timeless reminder of the importance of addressing systemic issues to promote
sustainable and equitable progress.
"Sobre la Indolencia de los Filipinos" is not simply a historical document; it's a powerful call for
self-reliance and reform. Rizal's essay challenges readers to critically examine the factors that
hinder progress and to actively participate in building a more just and equitable society. The
essay's enduring relevance lies in its ability to spark critical thinking about the relationship
between colonialism, economic inequality, and individual agency. It serves as a powerful
testament to the importance of addressing systemic issues to promote sustainable and equitable
progress, both in the Philippines and in other nations grappling with similar challenges. The
essay's enduring legacy is its ability to inspire critical thinking about the complexities of
development and the importance of addressing systemic issues to promote sustainable and
equitable progress. Rizal's work continues to resonate with readers across generations, serving
as a constant reminder of the need for self-reliance, education, and a commitment to building a
just and prosperous society. The essay's enduring message is a call to action, urging individuals
and nations to critically examine the systemic factors that hinder progress and to actively
participate in building a more just and equitable future.
 "To The Young Women of Malolos"

Jose Rizal is an intelligent man. His life revolved around books and the journey in learning.
focusing on his studies. The proof to this is stated in his blographies and even in his novel, Noli
me Tangere, wherein Crisostomo Ibarra, the main character, is his persona. The character also
traveled and studied in Europe. We can infer that Rizal has a habit of reading books, articles, and
news from any medium or any platform he comes across. The news of young women in Malolos
who have plans to create their school to learn Spanish during nighttime has reached him through
Del Pilar, and he commended these women.

Despite being rejected on their petition to create the school, the women decided to continue on
their plan, conducting Spanish lessons under Teodoro Sandiko. The news soon reached the ears
of those who opposed it, and the women were finally granted permission under certain
conditions. First, the school was to be funded by themselves. Second, instead of Teodoro
Sandiko, the teacher should be Guadalupe Reyes, who is blacklisted by the friar-curate of the
place. Third, the class meeting shall be held during daytime and not during nighttime to avoid the
accusations of subversive meetings and probably also to avoid secretive meetings that they think
these women would have. The school established by these women lasted for three months and
eventually closed on May 10, 1889.

When Spanish colonization started, the Spaniards had these patriarchal values that were soon
spread to the Philippines. Even up to this day, patriarchal society still exists wherein fathers, or
the "padre de pamilya," is the one who calls the shots and gets to decide in regards to familial
circumstances. Women during the Spanish colonization were bound to their houses, doing
household chores and taking care of their children. Having no significant role in nation-building,
unlike the era we currently live in where we see women standing up actively for their rights,
running for political elections, leading groups and organizations.

In his letter, Rizal expressed his joy as his faith in the independence and that the country. would
achieve victory was restored. He stated honestly that he does not know any of the women in
Malolos except Emilia, whom he only knew by name. Rizal, like all other men, has standards. in
women. To Rizal, women should be unchained and experience the same privileges as men. They
are not meant to be docile, laughing, and cry silently at the insults thrown at them. Women
should stand tall and know of their rights, protect their honor and dignity, and educate
themselves like the women he met in Europe, who are strong and not ignorant.

On his views about religious beliefs, Rizal said that God created all men equally, and thus,
women should have an active role in society. He encouraged the young women of Malolos and
commended them for their bravery in establishing their school. Advised them to seek guidance
towards each other and reminded them of the story of a father who gave each of his sons a lamp.
To know your way, help, and seek the right way suitable for each person. As Rizal was raised in
a household full of females, his mother, Donya Teodora Alonso, was the one who taught him the
world and all of its soul, artistic side, bigotry, and injustice. She was the one who instilled in him
the virtues of obedience and self-reliance and the importance of education itselt. With his mother
and his sisters in mind, Rizal opened the topic in which he thinks that a mother is the mirror of
her children. If a mother shows good conduct, her children also show it. If a mother shows bad
conduct, the children also show it. Rizal emphasized that mothers are the foundation of a child's
behavior and personality. They are the ones who make citizens of the nation who are
nationalistic and have a love for his mother, the country, and the well-being of all. Like Spartan
mothers, they shall be glad as they have sons who offered themselves in the fight for their
country that the honor it brings is an honor to the one who raised him bravely.

Rizal also emphasized that young women should be careful when choosing a spouse, that they
should be able to protect them, and a noble one, one who would not allow himself to be a father
of slaves. Rizal also said that we should be teaching our children to follow the truth and the true
God, not set by the God proposed by the Church.Women of Malolos were similar to flowers
devoid of perfume and fruits devoid of sap. This means that they are women who lack the
freedom to own their life, the knowledge to understand their rights as individuals, and the power
to fight back if they are abused. The reality is that women are uneducated and enslaved.
However, if their eyes were opened wide and they saw the welfare of the many, fresh hopes may
emerge, and victory would be achieved. This way, the Filipina will no longer stand with her head
bent, nor will she spend countless hours praying, reading novenas, and performing "awits" as the
Church instructed them because she is enlivened by hope for then future. In Rizal's letter, what
we could excerpt as his view on women was that he thinks that an ideal woman would be
someone educated and masculine, like the women in Europe. The women there are raised in a
liberal country resulting in the women also having a liberal personality, unlike the women in the
Philippines who were used to the patriarchal way of ruling. They were meek and docile, lacking
in comparison to the women in Europe. When he heard of the young women of Malolos, he was
delighted to discover that there is hope for change and encouraged them to claim their role in
nation-building.
 "Filipinas Dentro de Cien Años"

The 'Filipinas dentro de Cien Años'or 'The Philippines a Century Hence is an article written by
Jose Rizal, published under the newspaper La Solidaridad. In essence, the main point of this
literary work is to analyze the current and possibly, the future standing of the Philippines. To
further expand this, Rizal wanted to forecast the future of the Philippines after a hundred years.
Therefore, Rizal explored the uncertain future of the Philippines, posing questions about whether
they would remain a Spanish colony, gain autonomy, become independent, or align with other
nations. This article also showed what the Philippines, as well as its countrymen, went through,
or rather, what kind of unfortunate miseries they have experienced after being colonized by
Spain. Regardless, this article still stands as a reminder of how colonization has affected, or
rather, harmed, our overall national identity as Filipinos. Identity in a sense pertains to our own
culture and practices before she was colonized.

Just like in Rizal's other work, specifically "The Indolence of the Filipino", he started it off by
evaluating the standing of the Philippines under the reign or colonization of the Spaniards, which
involved wars, expeditions, and various significant changes in its cultural aspects. The reason for
this is because Rizal himself believed that in order to determine the destiny of the country, we, as
its sons, should look back at its history.

With that said, Rizal laid out all the Philippines' misfortunes under the Spanish rule in the first
chapter (out of 4) of this literary work, he mainly pointed out three main causes: (1)
Implementation of military policies, just like what Rizal said in his defense against Dr.
Sanciano's stigma against the Filipino people, the Spanish government has required the Filipinos
to help or participate in its own expeditions or conquests, resulting in the country's significant
depopulation, further leading to its poverty, (2) deterioration or loss of (own) culture, with the
continuous adoption of foreign doctrines, traditions, and etc, the Filipino people has slowly lost
its cultural identity, which led to (3) the submissiveness to the Spanish government, as the
Filipinos started forgetting about their own culture and felt embarrassed about their unique
traditions (concerning their national identity), they became more open to being influenced and
controlled by outsiders, perhaps hoping for some benefits from the change instead.
 In the second chapter, Rizal further delved into the political standing of the Philippines. He
pondered what would happen if the Filipino people united, and realized that this kind of
oppression should not be tolerated anymore, and attempted (unfortunately, unsuccessful) to
break free from its chains. Is it perhaps possible for the Philippines to attain its independence as a
country? However, historically, with how the Spanish government has conditioned the Filipino
people, they have put up with the cruelty and maltreatment and submitted to them instead. In
light of this, newer generations have adapted to this 'new' way of life. This, however, begs the
question: if the Philippines have grown accustomed to this way of life, would they perhaps
experience a peaceful era of dominance instead? Not to mention that after. enduring three
centuries of continuous foreign domination, Spain has tripled the country's material resources,
employed better organization in civil and military matters, and freed them. from external
conflicts. However, Rizal knew that despite the favorable and promising conditions that Spain
has given the Philippines, there are Filipinos (Malayans and ilustrados) despite being a part of
the minority-who are bound to question that very aspect of comfortability and are willing to
sacrifice everything in exchange for their aspirations and beliefs.

Now, with that said, the Spaniards could always devise a countermeasure to stop the progressing
resistance of the people of the Philippines, especially by the ilustrados, such as (1) keeping the
Filipino people ignorant, (2) keeping them impoverished, and (3) extermination of the Filipino
people. Yet Rizal once again debunked and deemed these impossible, mainly because the
ilustrados and the Filipinos are becoming aware and conscious of the standing of the Philippines,
not to mention that despite the repression and discrimination in schools, the ilustrados kept on
emerging. As for keeping the Filipino people impoverished, Rizal argued that as the Spaniards
relinquished the Filipinos' rights to their assets, they themselves were driven to change things.
And lastly, for the extermination of the Filipino people, it is practically impossible, since even in
the occurrence of wars and expeditions, the Filipino people have become more resilient. From
Rizal's answers alone, it could be as if he was hinting at the Spanish government if they want to
maintain its connection to the Philippines. Rizal wanted the Spanish government to at least
provide concrete and reasonable reforms for the Philippines and its people, such as respecting
their rights, justice, having a free press, and having representation in government, because once
the Filipino people became aware of the injustices and screamed for independence, Rizal knew
that there would be major consequences and that the blood of both parties would be shed. He
mentioned that simple and temporary reforms will not work for the Filipinos; not only will they
be ineffective, but they will also result in major discord among both parties.

However, if it was deemed unsuccessful and the Philippines was able to achieve or reclaim its
independence from Spain, Rizal was confident that neither England, as they are already busy, or
rather, they already have their hands full with the countries they have colonized, nor Germany,
nor France would dare to take up what Spain had been unable to "hold". However, according to
Rizal, the American Republic may take an interest in the Philippines due to the fact that America
has prior interests in the Pacific.

All in all, Rizal's claims are right and were never baseless in the first place. He has provided
decent arguments and supporting reasons for the Spanish government to agree with his proposed
reforms. After reading this literary work, I could see that Rizal wanted the best for the
Philippines and the Filipino people. He may not have shown it by going hand-in-hand with our
Katipuneros or by using violence to scream for the Philippines' independence, but he has
concerns for the Filipino people, and he addressed and defended the Filipino people through his
brilliant literary works.
 "Mi Último Adios"

José Rizal's "Mi Ultimo Adios" ("My Last Farewell"), penned on the eve of his execution in
1896, transcends its status as a simple farewell poem. It stands as a powerful testament to his
unwavering patriotism, a profound meditation on sacrifice, and a poignant legacy that continues
to inspire generations of Filipinos. This reflection will delve into the poem's multifaceted layers,
exploring its historical context, its enduring themes, and its enduring impact on the Filipino
national identity.

"Mi Ultimo Adios" is not merely a personal farewell; it's a powerful political statement
disguised as a personal testament. While ostensibly addressed to his loved ones, the poem's
profound message resonates far beyond the personal sphere, serving as a rallying cry for the
Filipino people struggling for independence from Spanish colonial rule. This duality—the
personal and the political—is central to the poem's enduring power. It speaks to the intimate
emotions of farewell while simultaneously articulating a broader vision of national liberation and
self-determination.

The poem's central theme is unwavering patriotism and the willingness to sacrifice for one's
country. Rizal's decision to face death rather than renounce his ideals is a powerful testament to
his commitment to the Filipino cause. The poem doesn't glorify martyrdom; instead, it presents a
profound reflection on the nature of sacrifice and the responsibility of individuals to contribute to
the betterment of their nation. The willingness to sacrifice one's life for a greater cause is
presented not as a heroic act, but as a solemn duty, a testament to the depth of Rizal's love for his
country. Rizal's love for his country is not a simplistic or naive emotion. It's a profound and
multifaceted feeling, encompassing a deep understanding of the Filipino people's struggles, their
potential, and their aspirations. The poem's imagery of a motherland suffering under oppression
evokes a powerful sense of empathy and compassion. Rizal's love for his country is intertwined
with his love for his people, a love that transcends personal desires and ambitions. This
profound love of country is the driving force behind his willingness to sacrifice everything for
the cause of freedom.

The poem's imagery of death and rebirth is central to its message. Rizal's impending death is
not presented as an end, but as a transition, a necessary sacrifice that paves the way for a new
beginning. The imagery of the rising sun, the blossoming flowers, and the awakening nation
symbolizes the hope for a future free from oppression. This symbolic representation of death
and rebirth reflects the cyclical nature of history and the inevitability of change. Rizal's sacrifice
is not seen as a futile act; instead, it's presented as a catalyst for national renewal and the birth of
a new era of freedom.

"Mi Ultimo Adios" is not just a farewell; it's a call to action. Rizal's words serve as a beacon of
hope and inspiration for future generations of Filipinos. The poem's powerful message of
patriotism, sacrifice, and the unwavering pursuit of freedom continues to resonate deeply with
Filipinos today. The poem's enduring legacy lies in its ability to inspire national unity, to foster a
sense of shared purpose, and to motivate Filipinos to strive for a better future.

"Mi Ultimo Adios" has become an integral part of the Filipino national identity. The poem's
powerful message of patriotism, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom has shaped the collective
consciousness of the Filipino people. It's recited in schools, commemorated in national
celebrations, and invoked in times of national crisis. The poem's enduring legacy lies in its
ability to unite Filipinos across different backgrounds and beliefs, reminding them of their shared
history and their collective aspirations.

Beyond its powerful message, "Mi Ultimo Adios" is a masterpiece of poetic expression. Rizal's
mastery of language, his use of vivid imagery, and his ability to evoke profound emotions
through his words make the poem a literary masterpiece. The poem's beauty and artistry enhance
its message, making it a more powerful and enduring work. The poem's linguistic elegance and
emotional depth contribute to its enduring appeal and its status as a cornerstone of Filipino
literature.

"Mi Ultimo Adios" is more than just a poem; it's a timeless testament to the human spirit's
capacity for love, sacrifice, and unwavering commitment to one's ideals. Rizal's words continue
to inspire and challenge, reminding us of the importance of fighting for justice, equality, and
freedom. The poem's enduring legacy lies in its ability to transcend its historical context,
offering a message of hope, courage, and unwavering patriotism that continues to resonate with
people around the world. It's a powerful reminder of the importance of standing up for what one
believes in, even in the face of overwhelming adversity. The poem's enduring power lies in its
ability to evoke profound emotions, to inspire action, and to remind us of the enduring strength
of the human spirit. It stands as a testament to the power of words to shape history, to inspire
change, and to leave a lasting legacy that transcends time and generations. The poem's enduring
message of patriotism, sacrifice, and the pursuit of freedom continues to inspire Filipinos and
people around the world, reminding us of the importance of fighting for what we believe in, even
in the face of adversity. Rizal's "Mi Ultimo Adios" remains a powerful and moving testament to
the human spirit, a beacon of hope that continues to illuminate the path towards a more just and
equitable world.