Jose Rizal, the face of the Philippines

 Jose Rizal stands as the face of the Philippines because of his intelligence, courage, and deep love for the country. Through his writings, especially Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, I learned how he exposed the injustices of Spanish rule and awakened the sense of nationalism among Filipinos. I also discovered that Rizal was not just a writer, but a doctor, artist, and reformist who believed that education and peaceful means were powerful tools for change.

While learning about Jose Rizal, one challenge I encountered was fully understanding the historical context of his time. Some of the events, ideas, and terms were complex, especially those related to colonial oppression and political reforms. It was sometimes difficult to connect his experiences to modern society and to see why his actions were so impactful during his era.

I addressed these challenges by carefully reading the lessons, doing additional research, and listening attentively during discussions. I also tried to reflect on Rizal’s life by relating his values—such as bravery, discipline, and love for country—to present-day situations. This helped me better appreciate his sacrifices and understand why he is honored as a national hero.

Moving on, I will continue to apply the lessons I learned from Jose Rizal in my own life. I will strive to value education, think critically, and stand up for what is right in peaceful and meaningful ways. By doing so, I can honor Rizal’s legacy and contribute, even in small ways, to the betterment of the Philippines.