Rizal’s Retraction Controversy

Since Rizal’s retraction letter was discovered by Father Manuel Garcia, C.M. in 1935, its content has
become a favorite subject of dispute among academicians and Catholics. The letter, dated December 29,
1896, was said to have been signed by the National Hero himself. It stated: “I declare myself a Catholic
and in this religion in which I was born and educated I wish to live and die. I retract with all my heart
whatever in my words, writings, publications and conduct has been contrary to my character as son of the
Catholic Church.”

The Retraction Controversy of Jose Rizal Many historians claim that Rizal withdrew from what he said
about the Catholic Church or not. From the declaration of Rizal: "I withdraw with all my heart everything
in my thoughts, writings, publications and actions was contrary to my character as a Catholic Church
son," some say that this document is a forgery and the other insists that it is authentic and Rizal was the
only one who wrote the retraction paper and signed it. Arguments are found to depend on the two claims.
But the only thing is, whether or not Rizal has retracted himself, the information he has instilled in us will
not change. The retraction was originally written by Rizal, according to Teodoro Kalaw, a specialist in
our hero 's writings and other handwriting experts, and it was judged by them through their deep research.
There are also prominent Philippine historians who, including Nick Joaquin, Nicolas Zafra, Gregorio
Zaide and many more, support the validity of Rizal's retraction. As of them, the witnesses are considered
when Rizal wrote the retraction text, signed the Catholic prayer book, and recited the Catholic prayers.
Based on them, there were even people who saw him before the execution when he kissed the crucifix.