ASSIGNMENT

1. What was the major argument raised by Senator Francisco Rodriguez

against the passage of the Rizal Bill?

Rizal bill underwent for numerous trial and debate on the congress
in which Catholic Church started to be involved, and exchange of
arguments from the both sides. It said to be one of the most controversial
bills passed on the Philippines. Senator Rodrigo argued that the books
that Rizal wrote (Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo) were written to
attack the Catholic Church. This bill would violate the freedom of
conscience and religion. They believe that it is not necessary to attack
the faith of the church to empower and embrace the nationalism as
Filipinos. Francisco Rodrigo even said in a statement that Filipinos can
still honor Rizal without reading those novels.

2. What was the major argument raised by Senators Jose P. Laurel and Claro
M. Recto in support of the passage of the Rizal Bill?

Senator Laurel and Senator Recto are the one who defended the
bill in the deliberations. They believe that, we Filipinos can look back and
be able to see ourselves and realize what virtues, sacrifices and strength
needed to attain the freedom that will connect today’s life, changes and
the future. Knowing Rizal on those important years and embraces our
own on who and what we are as we stand as Filipinos in our own
country.

3. Are there points of convergence between the supporters and the

opposition side of the Rizal Bill based on these statements?

Based on these statements, Yes there is. In between the supporters

and the opposition come up with the uniformity in a way that preserving
the identity, values and religion shall teach Filipino citizens specially the
youth to understand the importance and value of it as a Filipino.
REFLECTION

Reflect on your Secondary Education (Junior High School/

Senior High School): did your school comply with RA 1425? How
effective is the Rizal Law in instilling patriotism among secondary
students?

As far as I remember during my Secondary Education at Usant, we

have discussed the works and life of Rizal. Grade 9 Noli Me Tángere,
Grade 10 El Filibusterismo. Though there are some part and details that
I forgot I can say that through it, we students can understand the root
and importance as if like Rizal we should also stand on what we believe
and fight for our home country in a way that we can, just like Rizal who
wrote novel which drew attention to the unjust Spanish rule because he
wanted a reform which later on revolutionary drawn.
For me it is a great opportunity for all secondary students specially
the youth in a way that Rizal ideals connect with the present and future
conditions in our society, personal problems and issues. We go to
appreciate and understand what Rizal had fought and died for. And serve
as an eye opener for all to embrace what we are and what we have as a
Filipinos. We can bring change and be part of that change if we believe
and stand for what we’ve been fighting for. Aspire to inspire.