WEEK 4: ANNOTATION OF JOSE RIZAL TO ANTONIO MORGA’S
While
SUCESOS DE LAS ISLAS FILIPINAS
1. Colonial Exploitation: Rizal critiques the exploitative
nature of Spanish colonization, highlighting the
oppressive policies and practices imposed on the
Filipino people. He exposes the economic
exploitation, forced labor, and unjust taxation that
characterized Spanish rule in the Philippines.
2. Cultural Suppression: Rizal discusses the cultural
suppression perpetrated by the Spanish authorities,
including the suppression of indigenous languages
and traditions. He emphasizes the importance of
preserving Filipino culture and heritage in the face of
colonial domination.
3. Religious Imposition: Rizal examines the role of religion
in Spanish colonization, criticizing the forced
conversion of Filipinos to Catholicism and the abuses
committed by the clergy. He advocates for religious
freedom and tolerance as essential principles in a
pluralistic society.
4. Historical Distortions: Rizal points out historical
inaccuracies and biases present in Morga's account,
challenging the Eurocentric perspective and
highlighting the contributions of indigenous peoples to
Philippine history and civilization.
5. Resistance and Revolt: Rizal discusses the various forms
of resistance and revolt undertaken by Filipinos
against Spanish oppression, including the Babaylan
uprisings and the Moro resistance in Mindanao. He
celebrates the spirit of resistance and resilience
among the Filipino people.
6. Education and Enlightenment: Rizal underscores the
importance of education and enlightenment in
fostering national consciousness and empowering the
Filipino people. He advocates for reforms in the
educational system to promote critical thinking and
civic engagement.
7. Social Justice and Reform: Rizal calls for social justice
and reform to address the socio-economic
inequalities perpetuated by colonial rule. He
advocates for land reform, equal rights, and
opportunities for all Filipinos, regardless of their social
status or ethnicity.
8. National Identity: Rizal explores the concept of
national identity and nation-building, emphasizing the
need for Filipinos to embrace their identity and
heritage in the struggle for independence and self-
determination.
9. Legacy of Colonialism: Rizal reflects on the lasting
impact of colonialism on Philippine society, economy,
and politics. He warns against the dangers of
neocolonialism and imperialism, urging Filipinos to
remain vigilant in defending their sovereignty and
national interests.
10. Call to Action: Rizal concludes his annotations with a
call to action, urging Filipinos to unite and work
towards the realization of their aspirations for freedom,
justice, and progress. He emphasizes the importance
of collective action and solidarity in achieving
national liberation and social transformation.
Conclusion:
In conclusion, Jose Rizal's annotation of Antonio Morga's
"Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas" is a seminal work that exposes the
injustices and challenges faced by the Filipino people under
Spanish colonial rule. Rizal's critical analysis and commentary
provide invaluable insights into the colonial experience and
serve as a rallying cry for national awakening and liberation. His
annotations remain relevant today as a reminder of the
importance of historical awareness, social justice, and
collective action in the pursuit of a more just and equitable
society.
THE PHILIPPINES: A CENTURY HENCE
Published in 1889 by Philippine national hero, Jose Rizal, "The
Philippines A Century Hence" is a prophetic essay predicting the
potential future of the Philippines within a hundred years.
not explicitly stated, it is believed to serve as a warning to Spain
about the brewing discontent and potential consequences of
their colonial rule.
Key Issues and Challenges:
• Colonial Oppression: Rizal criticizes the oppressive
nature of Spanish rule, highlighting issues like forced
labor, discrimination, and lack of representation. He
warns that continued oppression will breed
resentment and rebellion.
• Ignorance and Illiteracy: The essay emphasizes the
importance of education for individual and national
progress. Rizal laments the widespread illiteracy and
limited access to education under Spanish
rule, highlighting its detrimental impact on social and
economic development.
• Religious Intolerance: He criticizes the Catholic
Church's dominance and intolerance towards other
faiths, arguing that it hinders intellectual freedom and
creates divisions within society.
• Lack of Unity: Rizal warns of the dangers of disunity
among Filipinos, arguing that internal divisions weaken
the fight against oppression and hinder national
progress.
Relevance and Importance:
• Timeless Critique of Colonialism: The essay's critique of
oppressive rule and advocacy for individual and
national liberation remain relevant in struggles against
injustice and authoritarianism worldwide.
• Importance of Education and Critical Thinking: Rizal's
emphasis on education serves as a reminder of its
crucial role in empowering individuals and fostering
responsible citizens.
• Unity and National Identity: The call for unity highlights
the importance of collective action and shared
identity in achieving national goals.
Conclusion:
While written over a century ago, "The Philippines A Century
Hence" offers timeless insights into the dangers of
oppression, the importance of education and unity, and the
struggle for individual and national liberation. Its themes remain
relevant not only for understanding Philippine history but also for
addressing contemporary issues of social justice and national
development.
ON THE INDOLENCE OF THE FILIPINOS
Published in 1890, "The Indolence of the Filipinos" by Jose Rizal
is not simply an accusation, but a nuanced exploration of the
reasons behind the supposed Filipino laziness under Spanish
rule. Rizal challenges the stereotype, arguing that it's a symptom
of colonial oppression rather than an inherent trait.
Issues and Challenges:
• Colonial Mentality: Rizal asserts that Spanish colonial
policies instilled a sense of inferiority and dependence
in Filipinos, reducing their initiative and motivation.
• Limited Opportunities: Under colonial rule, Filipinos
faced restricted access to education, land
ownership, and economic opportunities, hindering
their ability to flourish.
• Forced Labor & Taxation: Harsh policies like polo y
servicio (forced labor) and excessive taxation drained
Filipinos' resources and energy, leaving them
exhausted and demotivated.
• Social Injustice: Discrimination and prejudice against
Filipinos fostered resentment and discouraged hard
work, as the rewards were often enjoyed by the
colonizers.
• Lack of National Identity: The fragmentation of pre-
colonial communities and the imposition of Spanish
culture weakened a sense of shared identity and
purpose, hindering collective action.
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Relevance and Importance:
• Challenging Stereotypes: The essay fights against
harmful generalizations and encourages critical
thinking about attributing entire national
characteristics to individuals.
• Criticizing Colonialism: It reveals the detrimental
effects of oppression on societal development and
individual agency, making it relevant to understand
post-colonial issues.
• Advocating for Education: Rizal emphasizes the
importance of education in empowering individuals
and fostering a sense of national identity, a message
essential for development efforts.
• Individual and Collective Responsibility: The essay
encourages Filipinos to reflect on their roles in
perpetuating or overcoming societal
issues, promoting self-reliance and social change.
Conclusion:
"The Indolence of the Filipinos" is not a celebration of passivity
but a call to action. It urges Filipinos to critically examine their
situation, challenge injustices, and strive for individual and
collective empowerment. Though written in a specific historical
context, its themes of overcoming oppression, advocating for
education, and fostering national identity remain relevant for
Filipinos and others facing similar challenges today.
LETTER TO THE WOMEN OF MALOLOS
Not a book, but a powerful essay, "Letter to the Women of
Malolos" by Jose Rizal, written in 1889, addresses the 20 women
of Malolos who petitioned for the establishment of a night
school to learn Spanish. It transcends this specific event, offering
broader insights on women's education, empowerment, and
societal roles.
Why Rizal Wrote the Letter:
• Inspired by the Women's Courage: He admired their
initiative and defiance against societal norms and
colonial limitations.
• Advocating for Women's Education: He believed
education was crucial for individual and national
progress, and women were key players in this
advancement.
• Promoting Social Reform: He saw the potential of
educated women to contribute to positive societal
change and foster a more enlightened nation.
Issues and Challenges Addressed:
• Limited Educational Opportunities: Women faced
restricted access to education under Spanish
rule, hindering their intellectual and personal
development.
• Patriarchal Society: Deep-rooted societal
expectations confined women to domestic
roles, limiting their participation in public spheres.
• Colonial Mentality: Spanish colonial policies fostered a
sense of inferiority and dependence among
Filipinos, impacting women's self-belief and
aspirations.
Relevance and Importance:
• Universal Message on Education: The essay's call for
women's education transcends historical
context, promoting equal educational opportunities
for all.
• Empowering Women: It encourages women to
embrace their potential, develop their talents, and
actively contribute to society.
• Fostering National Progress: Rizal emphasizes the
essential role of educated women in building a
stronger and more enlightened nation.
• Challenging Societal Norms: The essay prompts
critical reflection on traditional gender roles and
encourages challenging limiting societal
expectations.
Conclusion:
"Letter to the Women of Malolos" is not just a historical
document but a timeless message on the transformative power
of education, the importance of women's empowerment, and
the need to challenge limiting societal norms. Its themes
resonate today, urging individuals and societies to strive for
gender equality and individual fulfillment.
WEEK 5: NOLI ME TANGERE
The novel "Noli Me Tangere" by Jose Rizal is a story that revolves
around the life of Crisostomo Ibarra, a mixed-race heir who
returns to the Philippines after seven years in Europe, filled with
ideas on how to better the lives of his countrymen. The novel
portrays the oppressive Spanish colonial rule and the struggles
of the Filipino people. Here is an outline and summary of the
novel:
Outline
1. Introduction
o Crisostomo Ibarra returns to the Philippines
after seven years in Europe.
o He is filled with ideas on how to better the
lives of his countrymen.
2. Conflict with the Ecclesiastical Hierarchy and Civil
Administration
o Ibarra is confronted by an abusive
ecclesiastical hierarchy and a Spanish civil
administration.
o He strives for reforms but is met with
indifference and cruelty.
3. Struggles and Opposition
o Ibarra's efforts for reform are met with
opposition from the powerful friars and civil
authorities.
o He faces personal and political challenges
as he seeks to improve the lives of the Filipino
people.
4. Tragic Endings and Symbolism
o The novel ends with tragic events, including
excommunication, illness, and death.
o The fates of the characters symbolize the
country's condition under religious and
colonial oppression.
Noli Me Tangere Chapter Summary:
Part 1: The Return
• Chapters 1-5: Crisóstomo Ibarra, a wealthy Filipino
mestizo, returns to the Philippines after studying in
Europe. He is welcomed by the
community, particularly Captain Tiago, his godfather.
• Chapters 6-11: Ibarra learns about the death of his
father, Don Rafael, which was shrouded in mystery
and blamed on heresy. He also rekindles his romance
with María Clara, his childhood sweetheart.
• Chapters 12-19: Ibarra faces growing tensions with the
powerful friars, Padre Damaso and Padre Salvi, due to
his liberal views and perceived defiance. He plans to
improve the lives of his countrymen through a school
project.
• Chapters 20-25: Ibarra hosts a lavish fiesta to
celebrate the groundbreaking of the school. The
event takes a turn when Padre Damaso insults
Ibarra, igniting a conflict that exposes the friars'
abusive power.
Part 2: The Persecution
• Chapters 26-32: Ibarra is excommunicated and
labeled a heretic by the Church. His school project is
shut down, and his enemies manipulate public
opinion against him.
• Chapters 33-38: Ibarra, fearing arrest, goes into hiding
with the aid of Elias, a mysterious Filipino who reveals
the injustices he has faced. Elias shares stories of
rebellion and resistance against the Spanish regime.
• Chapters 39-45: Ibarra is captured and tried for heresy
and rebellion. He defends himself
eloquently, exposing the hypocrisy and corruption of
the Spanish authorities and the Church.
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 • Chapters 46-50: Despite his powerful
arguments, Ibarra is found guilty and sentenced to
death. María Clara, torn between her love for Ibarra
and fear of her true heritage, saves him by entering a
convent.
Part 3: Flight and Foreshadowing
• Chapters 51-54: Ibarra escapes with the help of Elias
and Basilio, a young boy he had earlier assisted. He
witnesses the injustices suffered by the Filipinos and
learns about revolutionary movements.
• Chapters 55-64: Ibarra mourns the loss of his dreams
and contemplates leaving the Philippines. He
witnesses the tragic fates of Elias and Basilio, solidifying
his disillusionment with the colonial system.
• Epilogue: The novel ends with Padre Damaso
celebrating victory, unaware of the seeds of rebellion
that have been sown. Ibarra sails
away, foreshadowing future struggles and the
continuation of the fight for freedom.
Characters of Noli Me Tangere:
Protagonists:
• Crisóstomo Ibarra y Magsalin: A wealthy mestizo who
embodies reforms and ideals, facing social and
religious injustices. He represents the hope for change
and progress within the system.
• María Clara: A beautiful woman of mixed
heritage, caught between societal pressures and her
love for Ibarra. She symbolizes innocence, purity, and
the plight of individuals trapped in oppressive
structures.
• Elías: A mysterious outlaw who guides and protects
Ibarra, representing the rebellious spirit fighting for
freedom and equality. He advocates for violent
revolution against oppression.
Antagonists:
• Padre Dámaso: A domineering and cruel friar who
embodies the religious and colonial power abusing
their privilege. He represents religious hypocrisy and
the oppressive nature of the church.
• Captain Tiago: María Clara's wealthy socialite
father, reflecting the complicit upper class benefiting
from the corrupt system. He represents cowardice and
opportunism in the face of injustice.
Other Significant Characters:
• Pilósopo Tasyo: An old wise man representing the
voice of reason and dissent against social
injustices. He warns of the dangers of oppression and
inspires critical thinking.
• Sisa, Crispín, and Basilio: A poor family suffering under
the cruelty of the guardia civil. They represent the
voiceless and marginalized communities exploited by
the powerful.
• Doña Victorina: A Filipina who mimics European
mannerisms, satirizing the desire to assimilate and be
accepted by colonizers. She represents cultural
alienation and self-denial.
Representation in Society:
• Mestizos: Ibarra and María Clara represent the mixed
population caught between conflicting identities and
loyalties during colonization.
• Indios: Characters like Sisa, Crispín, and Basilio
highlight the struggles and suffering of the indigenous
population under colonial rule.
• The Church: Padre Dámaso and other priests
represent the power and influence of the
church, often depicted as corrupt and oppressive.
• The Ruling Class: Captain Tiago and his circle
represent the wealthy Filipinos who benefit from the
status quo and collaborate with the colonizers.
Noli Me Tangere Summary:
Noli Me Tangere is a powerful critique of Spanish colonialism in
the Philippines. It tells the story of Crisóstomo Ibarra, a young
Filipino idealist who returns home after studying in Europe, filled
with hope for positive change. However, he soon encounters
institutional corruption, hypocrisy, and oppression by the
Spanish authorities and the Church. His attempts to improve the
lives of his countrymen are met with resistance and
persecution, leading him down a path of disillusionment and
rebellion.
Through Ibarra's journey, Rizal exposes the abuses of power, the
exploitation of the indigenous population, and the injustices of
the colonial system. He also presents different perspectives on
resistance, from Ibarra's liberal reforms to Elias's revolutionary
ideals. The novel ends with a sense of unease and foreshadows
future struggles for freedom, urging readers to reflect on the
consequences of oppression and the potential for change.
EL FELIBUSTERISMO
"El Filibusterismo" is the sequel to "Noli Me Tangere" and was
written by Jose Rizal. The novel takes place thirteen years after
the events of "Noli Me Tangere" and follows the story of Simoun,
a wealthy jeweler who is secretly planning revenge against the
Spanish authorities. Simoun tries to recruit Basilio for his cause,
but Basilio initially refuses. Simoun arranges Juanito's marriage
to Paulita, planning to use a bomb disguised as a lamp at the
wedding to start a rebellion. Isagani, Paulita's former lover,
thwarts the plan by throwing the lamp into the river. Simoun
confesses his identity to Padre Florentino before taking poison,
and the priest throws Simoun's remaining jewels into the sea. The
novel explores social, political, and economic issues faced by
the Filipino people during the Spanish colonial era and
addresses topics such as corruption, oppression, and the need
for political reform. The novel resulted in Rizal's exile to Hong
Kong and later his execution by firing squad in 1896 at the age
of 35.
Outline
1. Introduction
o "El Filibusterismo" is the sequel to "Noli Me
Tangere" and was written by Jose Rizal.
o The novel was published in 1891 in Ghent,
Belgium.
o The novel's alternate title is "The Reign of
Greed."
2. Plot Summary
o The story takes place thirteen years after the
events of "Noli Me Tangere."
o The main character, Simoun, is a wealthy
jeweler who is secretly planning revenge
against the Spanish authorities.
o Simoun tries to recruit Basilio for his cause, but
Basilio initially refuses.
o Simoun arranges Juanito's marriage to
Paulita, planning to use a bomb disguised as
a lamp at the wedding to start a rebellion.
o Isagani, Paulita's former lover, thwarts the
plan by throwing the lamp into the river.
o Simoun confesses his identity to Padre
Florentino before taking poison, and the
priest throws Simoun's remaining jewels into
the sea.
3. Themes
o The novel explores social, political, and
economic issues faced by the Filipino people
during the Spanish colonial era.
o The novel addresses topics such as
corruption, oppression, and the need for
political reform.
o The novel resulted in Rizal's exile to Hong
Kong and later his execution by firing squad
in 1896 at the age of 35.
El Filibusterismo Chapter Summary:
Part 1: Simoun's Shadow
• Chapters 1-8: Thirteen years after the events of Noli Me
Tangere, Crisóstomo Ibarra, presumed
dead, resurfaces as the wealthy and mysterious
jeweler Simoun. He has amassed wealth and
influence, seeking revenge on those who wronged
him and his country.
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 • Chapters 9-15: Simoun infiltrates Manila's high • Don Custodio: Pro-Spanish Filipino official benefiting
society, manipulating the government and social from the corrupt system. Represents the complicit
circles to orchestrate his plans. He befriends upper class aiding the colonizers.
Basilio, now a medical student, and Isagani, a young • Ben-Zayb: Spanish journalist writing inflammatory
activist advocating for educational reforms. articles, often twisting facts. Represents biased media
• Chapters 16-22: Simoun hosts a lavish diamond manipulating public opinion for personal gain.
exhibit, intended to expose the greed and hypocrisy Representation in Society:
of the elite while inciting a revolution. The event • Filipinos: Characters like Basilio, Isagani, and
unfolds tragically, showcasing the desperation and Kabesang Tales represent the diverse experiences
corruption within society. and struggles of Filipinos under colonial rule.
Part 2: Seeds of Rebellion and Tragedy
• The Church: Padre Salvi and other priests represent the
• Chapters 23-32: Basilio grapples with ethical dilemmas corruption and abuse of power within the religious
as he becomes entangled in Simoun's institutions.
schemes. Isagani's peaceful movement for a • The Ruling Class: Don Custodio and his circle represent
language academy faces opposition from the the Filipinos who collaborated with the colonizers and
Church and government, leading to disillusionment profited from the system.
and despair. • Media: Ben-Zayb represents the potential for media
• Chapters 33-41: Simoun's plans for a violent uprising manipulation and the power of information in shaping
are unveiled, targeting government officials and public opinion.
religious figures. However, betrayals and unexpected • Women: Juli and Paulita represent the restricted
events lead to chaos and unintended consequences. agency and vulnerabilities faced by women in a
• Chapters 42-50: Basilio is forced to participate in patriarchal society.
Simoun's revolution, witnessing its brutal •
consequences and personal El Filibusterismo Summary:
tragedies. Simoun, realizing his path has caused El Filibusterismo, the sequel to Noli Me Tangere, explores the
immense suffering, commits suicide rather than disillusionment and darker side of revolution. Crisóstomo
succumb to further bloodshed. Ibarra, transformed into the vengeful Simoun, seeks to
Part 3: Echoes of Change and Sacrifice overthrow the colonial regime through violence and social
• Chapters 51-54: The aftermath of the failed revolution manipulation. However, his plans backfire, highlighting the
reveals the devastation and broken spirits of those destructive nature of hatred and revenge.
involved. Isagani leaves the Philippines, disillusioned Through contrasting characters like Basilio and Isagani, Rizal
with the fight for reform. presents different perspectives on resistance: violent uprising
• Chapters 55-64: Basilio reflects on the events and versus peaceful reform. The novel criticizes social
Simoun's motives, acknowledging the need for injustices, hypocrisy, and the corrupting influence of
change but advocating for peaceful and just power. Ultimately, it offers a cautionary tale, suggesting that
solutions. The novel ends with a sense of ambiguity change requires more than just force and personal vengeance.
about the future of the Philippines. While the ending remains open-ended, it reflects the
Characters of El Filibusterismo: complexities of the struggle for freedom and the ongoing
Protagonist: search for solutions in the face of oppression and despair.
• Simoun / Crisóstomo Ibarra: The wealthy
jeweler, secretly the disillusioned Ibarra from Noli Me
Tangere. Personifies vengeance, revolution, and the
destructive potential of idealism turned
bitter. Represents the oppressed Filipinos seeking
radical change, even through questionable means.
Other Significant Characters:
• Basilio: Sisa's orphaned son, struggling to survive and
seeking education. Represents the marginalized
youth yearning for a better future under the
oppressive system.
• Isagani: Student leader advocating for peaceful
reforms through education. Represents the hopeful
youth seeking change within the system.
• Padre Florentino: Scholarly priest sympathetic to the
plight of Filipinos and critical of the Church's
abuses. Represents the voice of reason and
moderation, questioning both revolution and blind
compliance.
• Kabesang Tales: Former farmer forced into banditry
due to injustice. Represents the exploited peasants
resorting to desperate measures for survival.
• Juli: Basilio's love interest, forced into
sacrifice. Represents the innocent victims of political
conflict and societal pressures.
• Padre Salvi: Former curate of San Diego, now
scheming priest. Represents the hypocritical and
oppressive nature of the religious authorities.
• Paulita Gomez: Doña Victorina's niece, manipulated
into becoming Simoun's pawn. Represents the
vulnerable young women exploited by powerful
figures.

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