Compare and contrast the arguments and views of those in favor of and against R.A.
1425, considering the context of the 1950s. Write your comparison on the table below.
Arguments in favor of RA 1425
Arguments against RA 1425
The objective of the bill was to keep the
memory of the national hero alive as he
fought for freedom peacefully.
Certain sections of the RA 1425 attacked
some of the teachings of the Catholic church.
The bill aims to teach the Filipino youth about
the concept and being of nationalism.
Reading Rizal’s texts and novels could cloud
people’s judgements and lead them astray
from God.
The bill was to promote nationalism and a
sense of a country in a time where there was
a dwindling Filipino identity.
There is a violation of freedom of conscience
and religion if the bill were to be approved.
It is a way to honor Jose Rizal through his
written works like Noli Me Tangere and El
Filibusterismo.
Teaching Rizal’s novels would misrepresent
current and present conditions of the Church.
It is also a way for the Filipino youth to be
aware and knowledgeable about Rizal’s
contribution and sacrifice for the country.
Rizal’s novel focuses more on anti-Church
sentiments, with 25 passages out of 120
passages in Noli Me Tangere being the only
ones indicated as nationalistic.
The opposition pointed out that Rizal
admitted that he not only attacked the Friars
with his works but also the Church itself.
Opposition emphasized that Rizal violated a
Canon Law that prohibits books that ridicule
the Catholic doctrine.
Would similar arguments still have force today? Justify your answer in not more than three (3)
sentences.
All the arguments proposed would not necessarily be pointed out but some certainly will in the
name of religion. However, the Filipino people today are more open-minded and can research
more with the resources available. Some of these arguments can have force and be debated
upon, especially the ones that note how Rizal’s works are mostly anti-Catholic and only fewer
passages have nationalistic sentiments.