CHING, Abbygail Wills V.
Y05
GERIZAL
"Jose Rizal: Sa Landas ng Paglaya" is a short film that proved to be a real eye-opener for me. The
film delved into various aspects of Jose Rizal’s life. While watching this film, one specific theme
evidently stood out for me the most – love. This love that Rizal possessed manifested in three ways: love
for family, love for community, and love for the country.
Firstly, the love for family is evident. As a sibling, it truly saddened me to learn about Jose Rizal’s
older brother, Paciano. Paciano Mercado played a significant role in Jose Rizal’s heroism, although he is
not widely acknowledged. He supported Jose Rizal in numerous ways, even sacrificing his own dreams.
In the film, it is mentioned that Paciano had shattered dreams as he couldn't complete law school due to
the events surrounding GOMBURZA. The way Jose speaks about his brother is genuinely special,
showcasing deep love and appreciation for Paciano. I can relate to this aspect of Jose’s life because, like
Paciano, I would also wholeheartedly sacrifice for my family, especially my siblings.
Additionally, the theme of love for family is showcased when Rizal had plans to return home after
spending some time in Madrid. However, his family didn't allow him to go back, worried that he might be
in serious danger if seen in the Philippines. This speaks volumes about how Jose’s family truly cared for
him. They did not want him to be near danger. Therefore, they were ready to go above and beyond, even
travel to another country just to bond with him and ensure his safety.
Secondly, Rizal’s love for the community is apparent. After his return to the Philippines, one
significant initiative he undertook was the establishment of La Liga Filipina. Its objectives were to unite
citizens into one nation, foster cooperation, and ensure everyone's protection. When Rizal and his
associates learned that their symbol of reform was caught, Bonifacio believed they had no choice but to
establish the KKK. It's noticeable that in Rizal’s final years, he underwent a significant transformation. He
dedicated himself to teaching students at no cost and providing free medical services to the poor. It's truly
heartening to learn that armed with Rizal's knowledge and the privilege to assist, he chose to aid students
and impoverished individuals without seeking monetary compensation.
Furthermore, during his time in Dapitan, he realized that effecting change in the Philippines
wasn't solely achievable through political means; perhaps contributing through assisting others with his
skills was also a viable approach. This realization has inspired me to be of service to others as well. While
I may not be the top student, a mathematical genius, or a sports prodigy, simply being myself enables me
to contribute by sharing my knowledge and skills with others.
And lastly, Rizal’s love for our country, the Philippines, shines through. While Rizal was in Hong
Kong, he pondered his actions, remaining determined in his belief that he had a duty to fight for the
Filipinos. If given the opportunity for a do-over in life, he asserted that he would make the same decisions
again. This highlights his strong commitment to dedicating his life in honor of advocating for the Filipino
people. Rizal firmly believed that a person should be willing to sacrifice their life for their duty and
beliefs. He was ready to give his life wholeheartedly for the Philippines. I am truly impressed and
motivated by his attitude.
On the other hand, the short film/documentary titled "Finding Rizal in a Time of Barriers" delves
into Fritz Ullmer’s account of a visitor named Jose Rizal who resided in his great-grandfather’s home.
Despite several generations having passed since this event, he possesses an intimate knowledge of Rizal’s
stories. This film also explores the parallels between the Barrier of Rizal and COVID-19 in various
aspects.
“History is the story of who we are, where we come from, and can potentially reveal where we
are headed.” Fritz Ullmer, the great-grandson of Pastor Karl Ullmer, recounted the story of Rizal's
three-month stay in his great-grandfather’s house in 1886 in Germany. It was in their ancestral home that
Rizal completed his novel, Noli Me Tangere. Even though many generations have elapsed since this
incident occurred, he retains a deep understanding of Rizal's narratives. This indicates that despite the
passage of time, the significance of Rizal's stories continues to resonate strongly, transcending generations
and remaining relevant in contemporary discourse.
Deputy Speaker Loren Legarda and her team were initially scheduled to fly to Germany in May
2020 for personal interviews and on-site visits. However, due to COVID-19, the trip was postponed. This
was an obvious barrier that COVID-19 imposed on our society. Nevertheless, it is impressive to see that
despite the challenges posed by the pandemic, Loren and her team found a way to proceed with the
project without the need for international travel.
A barrier that Rizal had to encounter was, in contrast to his academic accomplishments, a time of
hardship when Jose Rizal could only afford to eat once a day due to financial constraints. Living in a
different country meant having to budget his money carefully to ensure survival. It saddens me to think
that Rizal had to sacrifice regular meals for his day-to-day existence. Another challenge he faced was
finding an affordable printing place for his literary work. The search was challenging, but fortunately, he
discovered a printing place run by women, making it a less expensive option.
In conclusion, comparing Rizal's challenges to those faced during COVID-19 reveals interesting
similarities. Rizal encountered difficulties in trying to bring about change and define his nation's identity,
facing opposition from colonial authorities. Similarly, the COVID-19 pandemic created global challenges
affecting people's health, economies, and daily lives.
In Rizal's time, restrictions on his movements and expressions of dissent were similar to the
limitations placed on individuals during lockdowns and social distancing measures in the pandemic.
Rizal's determination and strength in facing challenges resonate with the collective efforts of people
around the world dealing with the difficulties brought by the COVID-19 crisis.
Both situations emphasize the human ability to adapt, find new solutions, and work towards
positive change despite significant obstacles. Rizal's legacy serves as a reminder that overcoming
challenges, whether in the past or present, requires determination, unity, and a commitment to a better
future.