Philippine Nationalism ~ National Symbol

A. Rizal and Filipino Nationalism:

A New Approach

B. Dr. Jose P. Rizal

The Father of Filipino Nationalism

Leslie Anne Ullero

BSEd~SS2

Life and Works Of Rizal

✓ Philippine Nationalism-National Symbol of Jose Rizal
Introduction:
Philippine nationalism is a significant aspect of the country’s history, particularly
during the late 19th century when Filipinos fought for their independence from Spanish
colonial rule. One of the key figures associated with Philippine nationalism is Jose Rizal, the
national hero of the Philippines. This report aims to explore the national symbol of Jose
Rizal, which is closely linked to Philippine nationalism – the Philippine flag.
The Philippine Flag:
The Philippine flag, often referred to as “Bandeira ng Pilipinas” or “Pambansang
Watawat,” serves as the national symbol of the Philippines, representing the nation’s
identity and aspirations. It is composed of a horizontal bicolor design with an equal-sized top
blue field and bottom red field. The flag’s design incorporates a white equilateral triangle on
the hoist side, containing three yellow five-pointed stars at its vertices. Inside the triangle
lies a yellow sun with rays.
Rizal’s Association with the Philippine Flag:
• Jose Rizal’s association with the Philippine flag is deeply rooted in his role as a
catalyst for Philippine nationalism and his aspiration for a just and free society. In countless
statues and artworks depicting Rizal, he is often portrayed holding or standing next to the
Philippine flag, symbolizing his commitment towards the country’s struggle for
independence.
• Rizal’s writings, such as his novels, expressed his concerns about the plight of the
Filipino people and called for social changes and reforms. These ideas resonated with many
Filipinos and stirred the flames of nationalism, driving them to eventually fight for their
freedom.
• Rizal’s writings, such as his novels “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” and
his ideals of peaceful reform greatly influenced the Philippine revolution against Spanish
colonial rule.
• Moreover, Rizal also wrote several letters that reflect his deep love for his country
and his unwavering patriotism. In one of his letters, he wrote, “He who does not love his
own language is worse than an animal and smelly fish.” This quote highlights Rizal’s advocacy
for the use of the Filipino language, which he believed was essential in cultivating Philippine
nationalism.
• Furthermore, Rizal’s death became a significant event in Philippine history, as it was
used as a rallying point for the Philippine Revolution. The three Martyr Priests (Mariano
Gomez, Jose Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora) were executed during the Spanish colonial rule,
but it was Rizal’s execution, and the way it was carried out, that fueled the revolutionary
spirit among Filipinos.
A. Rizal and Filipino Nationalism: A New Approach
While traditional approaches have often highlighted Rizal’s nationalistic ideals and his
role in the Philippine Revolution, we will explore a different approach that focuses on his
contributions to the development of Filipino identity and his unconventional methods of
promoting nationalism.
1.Rizal’s exploration of Filipino identity:
✓ a. Rizal’s writings and novels: Rizal’s novels, such as Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo, highlighted the vices and injustices of Spanish colonial rule. By portraying
Filipino characters with complex personalities and aspirations, he aimed to showcase the
potential of Filipinos and their capacity for self-governance.
✓ b. Concepts of Filipino culture and heritage:
Rizal emphasized the importance of embracing Filipino culture and heritage in
shaping national identity. Through his writings, he promoted the use of the Filipino language
(Tagalog) as a means to unite the diverse populations of the archipelago.
2. Rizal’s unconventional methods of promoting nationalism:
✓ a. Education and reform: Rizal believed that true change could only be achieved
through education and reform rather than armed rebellion. He advocated for improvements
in the Philippine education system as a means to empower the Filipino people intellectually
and instill within them a sense of national pride.
✓ b. Pacifism and peaceful resistance: Rizal was a proponent of peaceful resistance
against Spanish colonial rule. He believed in enlightening the Spanish authorities about the
injustices and aberrations occurring in the Philippines through non-violent means, such as
his writings and activism abroad.
It is also crucial to highlight Rizal’s concept of “love of country.” Rizal believed that
true love for one’s country transcends blind patriotism and includes a critical examination of
its flaws and aspirations for improvement.
By exploring themes of Filipino identity and his unconventional methods of
promoting nationalism, it is apparent that Rizal played a crucial role in shaping the collective
consciousness of the Filipino people and sparking a sense of national pride that transcended
colonial boundaries.
B. Dr. Jose P. Rizal: The Father of Filipino Nationalism
Contributions to Filipino Nationalism:
1. Writing and Literature: Rizal’s literary works, particularly his novels “Noli Me
Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” exposed the injustices and abuses of Spanish
colonial rule. These literary masterpieces not only resonated with Filipinos but also
inspired a sense of nationalism and a desire for social change.
2. Advocacy for Education and Intellectual Awakening: Rizal firmly believed that
education played a crucial role in uplifting the Filipino people. He advocated for
educational reforms and emphasized the need for intellectual enlightenment to
combat ignorance and oppression.
3. Peaceful Reforms: Rizal propagated the idea of peaceful and gradual reforms rather
than violent revolution. He believed in shaping the Filipino identity through
 education, civic consciousness, and cultural pride, fostering unity among Filipinos for
their collective aspirations.
4. Martyrdom and Sacrifice: Rizal’s ultimate sacrifice for the cause of Filipino
nationalism solidified his status as a national hero. He was arrested, tried, and
executed on December 30, 1896, igniting a flame of resistance among Filipinos and
serving as a catalyst for the Philippine revolution against Spanish rule.
Legacy of Dr. Jose P. Rizal:
• Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s legacy as the Father of Filipino Nationalism remains deeply
ingrained in the Filipino psyche and history. His ideas and writings continue to resonate with
successive generations, inspiring them to fight for justice, independence, and national pride.
• Rizal’s role in shaping Filipino national identity and his advocacy for social reforms
laid the foundation for the eventual birth of an independent Philippines. His life and
martyrdom imbue the Filipino people with a sense of courage, resilience, and the
determination to safeguard their freedom.

Conclusion
Through Dr. Jose P. Rizal’s writings, intellectual contributions, peaceful advocacy, and
ultimate sacrifice, he helped awaken the Filipino people’s national consciousness and fueled
the flames of resistance against Spanish colonial rule. Rizal’s legacy as the Father of Filipino
Nationalism continues to inspire and guide Filipinos in their pursuit of national identity,
social justice, and the defense of their freedoms.

References
Constancio, A. (2016). “He Who Does Not Love His Own Language Is Worse Than An
Animal And Smelly Fish”: Rizal’s Advocacy for the Filipino Language. Philippine Journal of
Linguistics, 47(1), 37-56.
Quibuyen, F. L. (2008). A Nation Aborted: Rizal, American Hegemony, and Philippine
Nationalism. Quezon City, Philippines: Ateneo de Manila University Press.
Zaide, G. F. (2003). Jose Rizal: Life, Works, and Writings of a Genius, Writer, Scientist,
and National Hero. Mandaluyong City, Philippines: National Bookstore.