Today, we observe the 163rd birth anniversary of Dr. Jose Rizal whose life and works have transcended the confines of his time and the nation. Dr. Rizal’s role in nation-building, his advocacy for peaceful reform, his fight against injustice, his enduring inspiration to both the youth and the adults, and his influence that echoes from the Philippines to the global stage, are testaments to the timeless impact of his life.
Dr. Jose Rizal’s contributions to nation-building are profound. His vision for the Philippines was one of peaceful reform and empowerment through education and civic engagement. His literary pieces, particularly the “Noli Me Tangere” and “El Filibusterismo,” were catalysts that awakened national consciousness and ignited desire for freedom among Filipinos. He championed the rights of Filipinos, advocating for equality and representation, and his ideas laid the groundwork for the eventual pursuit of independence. Rizal’s fight against injustice mirrors our own battle. As we address issues like poverty, inequality, and corruption, his advocacy inspires us to champion the rights and dignity of every individual in our community and the country in general.
Apart from advocating peaceful reforms and empowering Filipinos, he served as an inspiration to both the youth and the young once. His adage, “The youth is the hope of our future,” resonates strongly even today. His life is a powerful narrative that encourages the young to be curious, to learn, and to serve their country with integrity and passion. For the young once, Rizal serves as a reminder of the power of one’s convictions and the impact of intellectual courage on societal progress.
Dr. Rizal’s influence transcends borders, extending far beyond the Philippine archipelago. His works have been studied and admired worldwide, inspiring movements for freedom and reform. His ideas on human rights, national sovereignty, and peaceful resistance have found relevance in various contexts, proving that his insights into the human condition and governance are universal.
The most recent testament of Rizal’s influence and enduring legacy in the global stage is a quote from him that resonates in Ukraine in the wake of the Russian invasion. Ukraine’s Defense Ministry quoted Dr. Rizal as they stood firm against advancing Russian troops and tanks: “I don’t see why I should bow my head when I could hold it high, or place it in the hands of my enemies when I can defeat them.” This powerful statement from Rizal has become a beacon of resilience and determination for the Ukrainian people.
This Rizal adage should serve as an inspiration for Filipinos as the country faces heightened challenges to its sovereignty and territorial integrity. We can hold our heads high if we stand united against those who trample upon our moral and legal rights. His vision of a unified Filipino identity still reverberates today, urging us to celebrate our unique cultural heritage while standing firm against external threats.
As we remember Dr. Jose Rizal, let us not only celebrate his birth but also carry forward the principles he stood for. His multifaceted legacy reminds Filipinos that the pursuit of knowledge, the courage to speak truth to the powerful, and the unwavering love for one’s country are qualities that can truly shape a nation and inspire the world. Dr. Rizal’s legacy is a clarion call for every Filipino to continue striving for a just, enlightened, and sovereign society.