FEDILYN B.

LAYAGUEN OBTEC M-1-2

BREAKING FREE

All men are born equal, naked, without bonds (Jean-Jacques Rousseau). Human rights are

often defined as the fundamental rights and freedoms that every person is entitled to,

regardless of their race, gender, religion, or any other characteristic. Jose Rizal's life and

works have had a profound impact on Philippine society, contributing to the country's

struggle for independence and national identity, as well as influencing its literature, art, and

politics." Indeed, Jose Rizal's life and works have played a significant role in shaping

Philippine society. He was a key figure in the country's fight for independence and inspired a

sense of national pride and identity. Additionally, his literary works, such as "Noli Me

Tangere" and "El Filibusterism," shed light on the social and political issues of his time and

continue to influence Philippine literature and art.

Rizal's critique of colonialism centered around the idea that it was oppressive and unjust, and

that it hindered the development of the Philippines and its people. He envisioned a just and

free society where all Filipinos could enjoy equal rights and opportunities. Rizal's role as a

national hero and a symbol of Filipino identity is significant as he inspired many other

Filipino leaders and movements, and his legacy continues to shape the Philippines today. His

ideas and principles are still relevant to contemporary issues and challenges facing not only

the Philippines, but also the world.

Jose Rizal's works and writings supply valuable insights into the complexities and richness of

Philippine history, as well as the ongoing struggles for justice, freedom, and dignity. Through

his works, Rizal highlighted the importance of education, in which it can promote critical

thinking, creativity, and problem-solving abilities, which are essential for personal growth

and success in a rapidly changing world, national identity, and unity in the face of colonial
oppression. He also shed light on the injustices experienced by the Filipino people and

advocated for social and political reforms. His legacy continues to inspire and guide Filipinos

in their pursuit of a better future.

Jose Rizal, a Filipino nationalist and writer, was critical of colonialism and its effects on the

Philippines. He believed that colonialism, specifically Spanish colonialism, had brought

about poverty, injustice, and the loss of Filipino identity. In his writings, Rizal called for a

just and free society, where all Filipinos would have equal rights and opportunities. He

believed that education was key to achieving this vision, and advocated for the establishment

of schools and universities that would provide Filipinos with the knowledge and skills

necessary to build a better society.

Overall, Rizal's critique of colonialism and his vision of a just and free society remain

relevant today as we continue to grapple with issues of inequality and oppression. These

rights are essential for a free and democratic society, where everyone is equal under the law

and can live a fulfilling life as the human rights are essential for ensuring that every

individual is treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, gender, religion, or any

other characteristic. They supply a framework for protecting individuals from discrimination,

oppression, and other forms of abuse, and are necessary for creating a just and fair society.

Human rights also serve as a basis for promoting peace and stability, as well as for ensuring

that everyone could live a fulfilling and meaningful life.