GCAS 09 - RIZAL
Dr: Sagusay, Enerio L.
By: Group V
The First Trip to Europe
Dr. Jose Rizal's European journey occurred in three stages: first, his departure for
Europe in May 1882 for education; second, his literary and political activities from
June 1888 to October 1891; and lastly, his time in Hong Kong until July 1892,
continuing his advocacy for political reforms.
Rizal's departure was kept secret from his parents, but friends arranged his travel
and gave him money. On May 1, 1882, he left Calamba, receiving money from his brother
Paciano. Rizal wrote poetic letters about his voyage, receiving royal treatment and
cultural exposure during his travels.
He arrived in Singapore on May 9, 1882, staying at Hotel dela Paz. He then boarded the
Djemnah, fascinated by its cleanliness and meeting various passengers. The ship
stopped at Punta de Gales, Colombo, and the African coast, offering Rizal cultural
interactions and experiences. The Djemnah passed through Suez Canal on June 2, after a
slight delay, marking 47 days of travel.
Barcelona
Rizal arrived in Barcelona on June 15, 1882, receiving a warm
welcome from Filipino expatriates that deepened his nationalism.
He published his first essay, "El Amor Patrio" (Love of
Country), using the pen name Laong Laan, expressing his
affection for his birthland. Despite his challenging living
conditions on Calle de San Pablo at Fonda de España, Rizal
adjusted to his situation and gained recognition for his
eloquent writings in Diariong Tagalog.
While the city left a less-than-favorable impression due to its
poverty, Rizal's interactions with locals, including a
considerate landlady named Señora Silvestra, and his
interactions with other Filipinos deepened his understanding of
Barcelona.
Madrid
Rizal moved to Madrid primarily to continue his education and was inspired
by the political and social disparities he observed in Spain and the
Philippines. He recognized the potential for Filipino expatriates to
express their grievances against the Spanish abuses and corruption. In
Madrid, Rizal joined the Circulo Hispano-Filipino, a group of about 30
members.
The Circulo Hispano-Filipino was established in 1882 by Don Miguel Atayde,
and Rizal contributed to its magazine. However, the organization faced
challenges due to personal motives and lack of unity.
In Madrid, Rizal joined the freemasons, drawn by their belief in universal
brotherhood and pursuit of truth. He formally joined the Masonic Lodge
Acacia in Madrid in 1883, becoming a Master Mason in Lodge Solidaridad in
1890 and affiliating with Le Grand Orient France in 1892. using the name
Dimasalang.
In 1884, he attended an event honoring Filipino painters Juan Luna and
Felix R. Hidalgo, delivering a speech praising their achievements and
advocating for reforms in Spain and the Philippines, emphasizing the
Filipino youth's potential.
Rizal faced financial difficulties in Madrid, often living on meager
amounts and second-hand clothes. Despite homesickness, he worked
diligently and maintained communication with his family, expressing his
feelings through letters and poetry, including "Me Piden Versos" (They
Ask Me for Verses).
He recited this poem at a New Year's Eve reception for Filipinos in
Madrid on December 31, 1882.
Paris
After graduating from the Universidad Central de Madrid,
Rizal embarked on a European tour. In 1885, he moved to
Paris to enhance his French language skills and receive
ophthalmology training.
Prior to reaching Paris, he stopped in Barcelona to visit
his friend Maximo Vigla, a medical student. Rizal spent
four months from November 1885 to February 1886 as an
assistant to the renowned ophthalmologist Louis de
Wecker. During this period, he quickly learned the
techniques of eye surgery and witnessed groundbreaking
advancements, including de Wecker's invention of iris-
cutting scissors that were still in use decades later.
Rizal's time in de Wecker's clinic was fruitful, as he worked diligently
and gained a reputation for being refined, friendly, and industrious. He
used this opportunity to not only advance his medical skills but also to
learn several languages such as French, German, Polish, and Greek. He also
engaged in other activities, including trying to improve his painting
skills in Juan Luna's studio. Rizal even posed as a model for Luna's
paintings, such as "Death of Cleopatra" and "The Blood Compact."
During his stay in Paris, Rizal explored the city and visited numerous
landmarks and cultural sites. He admired the cleanliness of the
surroundings and observed people enjoying leisure time in public gardens
and promenades. Rizal's life in Paris was dedicated to intellectual
pursuits, professional development, writing his novel "Noli Me Tangere,"
traveling, and honing his painting talents.
Despite the support from Dr. Wecker, Rizal left Paris to further specialize
in ophthalmology. Before departing the city, he had already completed a
significant portion of his novel "Noli Me Tangere," which would go on to
become a seminal work in Philippine literature.
Heidelberg
Rizal arrived in Heidelberg in 1886, staying for six months. He lived
temporarily at 16 Karlstrasse before moving to 12 Grabengasse. He paid 28
duros per month for lodging and meals at a boarding house run by Mrs.
Nebel.
Despite the relatively high cost of 28 duros per month, he found German
life manageable as he mainly ate potatoes. To enhance his ophthalmology
knowledge, Rizal worked as an assistant at Dr. Oto Becker's eye clinic at
Heidelberg University. He attended seminars like "Augen Klinic" and
"Repetitorium der Augenheilkunde." Despite limited funds, his diligence
paid off, and he became a successful physician.
Rizal's limited funds necessitated discipline and diligence to succeed in
his medical studies. During his time in Heidelberg, Rizal was part of the
Chess Players Club at the university and was supported financially by
Juan Luna when his funds ran out.
During his time in Heidelberg, Rizal was part of the Chess Players
Club at the university and was supported financially by Juan Luna
when his funds ran out. He admired the methodical and disciplined
German way of life, noticing their respectful greetings and
introduction etiquette. Rizal was enchanted by Heidelberg's castles
and vibrant spring flowers, reminiscent of his home in Calamba.
This nostalgia inspired him to write the poem "To the Flowers of
Heidelberg." In a letter to his sister Trinidad, he compared German
and Filipina women's traits, praising the former's seriousness,
diligence, and focus on education over material things.
Rizal's Heidelberg experience profoundly impacted his view on
women's growth and civic involvement. He advised his sister,
Trinidad, to focus on learning and intellectual growth while
resisting indolence.
Wilhelmsfeld
To alleviate his homesickness, Jose Rizal spent three months during the summer in
Wilhelmsfeld at the residence of Reverend Karl Ullmer. The small town is situated atop
a hill, around 13 kilometers north of Heidelberg. To reach there from Heidelberg, Rizal
walked for about three hours, crossing the Neckar River and passing through the
picturesque Odenwald forest. He stayed in a room of Ullmer's vicarage and found the
place serene and tranquil, which provided him the ideal environment to work on the
concluding chapters of his novel "Noli Me Tangere."
In the heart of Wilhelmsfeld, Rizal engaged in discussions with Fr. Heinrich Bardorf, a
Catholic priest, at the Schriesheimer Hof inn. Their conversations about religion
fostered Rizal's appreciation for religious tolerance. He admired how Bardorf, a
Catholic, and Ullmer, a Protestant, respected each other's faith. Their discussions
emphasized unity and brotherhood, transcending religious differences.
During his stay, Rizal honed his sketching skills and improved his German language
proficiency. In June 1886, he left Wilhelmsfeld and returned to Heidelberg.
Leipzig
In Leipzig, Rizal attended history and psychology lectures at the University.
He befriended Professor Friedrich Ratzel and Hans Meyer, a notable
anthropologist and author. Meyer had visited the Philippines for two months in
1882, and shared indigenous culture insights with Rizal. Professor Ratzel
praised Rizal's intellect, shaped by experiences across three continents.
During his time in Leipzig, Rizal worked as a proofreader for a publishing
company. On October 12, 1886, he translated Schiller's play "William Tell"
from German to Tagalog, aiming to familiarize Filipinos with the story of the
Swiss champion of independence. He also translated five fairy tales by Hans
Christian Andersen, including "The Ugly Duckling," and sent a copy to his
brother for the benefit of his fellow countrymen.
Rizal appreciated Leipzig's tranquility and affordability, finding it a suitable
place to live. He engaged in gymnastics and joined a local gymnasium, which charged
a modest fee of 75 pfennigs per month. Leipzig became a productive and peaceful
environment for Rizal's intellectual pursuits and personal growth
Berlin
On November 1, 1886, Jose Rizal arrived in Berlin and took up residence at
the Central Hotel. His time in Berlin proved to be a highly rewarding
experience with several aims: mastering the German language, expanding his
knowledge in humanities, history, and languages, studying German
ethnography, specializing in ophthalmology, participating in various
organizations alongside German scholars, and publishing his novel "Noli Me
Tangere."
Joining the Geographic and Ethnographic Association, Rizal presented a well-
received paper on Tagalog verse, showcasing his linguistic prowess. He
immersed himself in ophthalmology, assisting in clinics and attending
conferences.
Rizal led a modest life but faced malnutrition due to excessive
studying, physical training, and buying books. To support the
printing of "Noli Me Tangere," he pawned his sister's diamond
ring and received financial help from Dr. Maximo Viola. After
publication, Rizal and Viola toured Europe extensively,
absorbing cultural experiences.
Considering a return to the Philippines, Viola worried about
Rizal's safety due to the controversial book. Rizal, determined
to help his mother's eyesight, left Berlin by train on May 11,
1887, with a stop in Dresden to explore key sites.
Dresden
In Dresden, Rizal and Viola attended a floral exposition and visited Dr.
Adolph Meyer at the Dresden Museum. They saw art like Prometheus Bound by
Rubens and then sailed to Leitmeritz, Bohemia, where they met Ferdinand
Blumentritt, an Austrian scholar and director of the Athenaeum. Blumentritt
recognized Rizal from photographs and helped them find accommodation at
Hotel Krebbs.
Blumentritt, a pioneer in Philippine studies, became a close friend through
correspondence. Rizal was surprised by Filipino dishes cooked by
Blumentritt's wife and enjoyed a three-day visit. Their friendship started
when Rizal sent a book, and Blumentritt reciprocated with a book about
Austria, sparking a lasting exchange of letters and ideas.
Blumentritt aided Rizal in various studies, including Mindanao's map and
ethnography. He suggested Rizal explore ethnography, leading to translations
of works and meetings with German naturalists. Rizal continued his travels
to Prague after this insightful stay.
Prague
After Dresden, Rizal and Viola went to the historic city of Prague, where
they visited Dr. Willkomn, a professor of Natural History, upon the
recommendation of Dr. Blumentritt. They also visited the tomb of
Copernicus, the famous astronomer; the Museum of Natural History; the
Bacteriological Laboratories; and the famous cave where San Juan
Nepomuceno was imprisoned.
Vienna
On May 20, 1887, Rizal and Viola arrived in the beautiful city of Vienna.
They stayed at Hotel Metropole and visited many interesting places in the
city, including churches, museums. art galleries, and public parks.
Lintz
In Lintz, Rizal and Viola rented a boat to see the Danube River. During
the trip, Rizal observed the river, the barges loaded with products, and
the boats with families living on them.
Rheinfall
Rizal and Viola then went to Munich to taste its beer, considered the best
in Germany then. They also visited Ulm Cathedral, the tallest building in
Germany at the time, saw the Rin Waterfalls which was widely regarded as the
most beautiful in Europe.
Geneva
Rizal and Viola enjoyed their time in beautiful Geneva. While crossing
Leman Lake, Rizal was reminded of his Calamba childhood. But upon
arrival, news from Madrid about the degrading treatment of the Igorots at
the Madrid Exposition saddened Rizal deeply. He resented the mockery and
degradation inflicted on his fellow Filipinos by the Spaniards.
Italy
On June 23, 1887, Rizal and Viola parted ways. Viola returned to Barcelona,
and Rizal journeyed through Italy, visiting cities like Turin, Milan,
Venice, Florence, Rome, and the Vatican. He marveled at St. Peter's
Basilica, admired artwork, and experienced the grandeur of St. Peter's
Square. After a week of exploration, he decided to return to the
Philippines, having informed his father of his impending homecoming.
The First Trip to Europe
Dr. Jose Rizal's European journey occurred in three stages: first, his departure for
Europe in May 1882 for education; second, his literary and political activities from
June 1888 to October 1891; and lastly, his time in Hong Kong until July 1892,
continuing his advocacy for political reforms.
Rizal's departure was kept secret from his parents, but friends arranged his travel
and gave him money. On May 1, 1882, he left Calamba, receiving money from his brother
Paciano. Rizal wrote poetic letters about his voyage, receiving royal treatment and
cultural exposure during his travels.
He arrived in Singapore on May 9, 1882, staying at Hotel dela Paz. He then boarded the
Djemnah, fascinated by its cleanliness and meeting various passengers. The ship
stopped at Punta de Gales, Colombo, and the African coast, offering Rizal cultural
interactions and experiences. The Djemnah passed through Suez Canal on June 2, after a
slight delay, marking 47 days of travel.
Barcelona
Rizal arrived in Barcelona on June 15, 1882, receiving a warm
welcome from Filipino expatriates that deepened his nationalism.
He published his first essay, "El Amor Patrio" (Love of
Country), using the pen name Laong Laan, expressing his
affection for his birthland. Despite his challenging living
conditions on Calle de San Pablo at Fonda de España, Rizal
adjusted to his situation and gained recognition for his
eloquent writings in Diariong Tagalog.
While the city left a less-than-favorable impression due to its
poverty, Rizal's interactions with locals, including a
considerate landlady named Señora Silvestra, and his
interactions with other Filipinos deepened his understanding of
Barcelona.
Madrid
Rizal moved to Madrid primarily to continue his education and was inspired
by the political and social disparities he observed in Spain and the
Philippines. He recognized the potential for Filipino expatriates to
express their grievances against the Spanish abuses and corruption. In
Madrid, Rizal joined the Circulo Hispano-Filipino, a group of about 30
members.
The Circulo Hispano-Filipino was established in 1882 by Don Miguel Atayde,
and Rizal contributed to its magazine. However, the organization faced
challenges due to personal motives and lack of unity.
In Madrid, Rizal joined the freemasons, drawn by their belief in universal
brotherhood and pursuit of truth. He formally joined the Masonic Lodge
Acacia in Madrid in 1883, becoming a Master Mason in Lodge Solidaridad in
1890 and affiliating with Le Grand Orient France in 1892. using the name
Dimasalang.
In 1884, he attended an event honoring Filipino painters Juan Luna and
Felix R. Hidalgo, delivering a speech praising their achievements and
advocating for reforms in Spain and the Philippines, emphasizing the
Filipino youth's potential.
Rizal faced financial difficulties in Madrid, often living on meager
amounts and second-hand clothes. Despite homesickness, he worked
diligently and maintained communication with his family, expressing his
feelings through letters and poetry, including "Me Piden Versos" (They
Ask Me for Verses).
He recited this poem at a New Year's Eve reception for Filipinos in
Madrid on December 31, 1882.
Paris
After graduating from the Universidad Central de Madrid,
Rizal embarked on a European tour. In 1885, he moved to
Paris to enhance his French language skills and receive
ophthalmology training.
Prior to reaching Paris, he stopped in Barcelona to visit
his friend Maximo Vigla, a medical student. Rizal spent
four months from November 1885 to February 1886 as an
assistant to the renowned ophthalmologist Louis de
Wecker. During this period, he quickly learned the
techniques of eye surgery and witnessed groundbreaking
advancements, including de Wecker's invention of iris-
cutting scissors that were still in use decades later.
Rizal's time in de Wecker's clinic was fruitful, as he worked diligently
and gained a reputation for being refined, friendly, and industrious. He
used this opportunity to not only advance his medical skills but also to
learn several languages such as French, German, Polish, and Greek. He also
engaged in other activities, including trying to improve his painting
skills in Juan Luna's studio. Rizal even posed as a model for Luna's
paintings, such as "Death of Cleopatra" and "The Blood Compact."
During his stay in Paris, Rizal explored the city and visited numerous
landmarks and cultural sites. He admired the cleanliness of the
surroundings and observed people enjoying leisure time in public gardens
and promenades. Rizal's life in Paris was dedicated to intellectual
pursuits, professional development, writing his novel "Noli Me Tangere,"
traveling, and honing his painting talents.
Despite the support from Dr. Wecker, Rizal left Paris to further specialize
in ophthalmology. Before departing the city, he had already completed a
significant portion of his novel "Noli Me Tangere," which would go on to
become a seminal work in Philippine literature.
Heidelberg
Rizal arrived in Heidelberg in 1886, staying for six months. He lived
temporarily at 16 Karlstrasse before moving to 12 Grabengasse. He paid 28
duros per month for lodging and meals at a boarding house run by Mrs.
Nebel.
Despite the relatively high cost of 28 duros per month, he found German
life manageable as he mainly ate potatoes. To enhance his ophthalmology
knowledge, Rizal worked as an assistant at Dr. Oto Becker's eye clinic at
Heidelberg University. He attended seminars like "Augen Klinic" and
"Repetitorium der Augenheilkunde." Despite limited funds, his diligence
paid off, and he became a successful physician.
Rizal's limited funds necessitated discipline and diligence to succeed in
his medical studies. During his time in Heidelberg, Rizal was part of the
Chess Players Club at the university and was supported financially by
Juan Luna when his funds ran out.
During his time in Heidelberg, Rizal was part of the Chess Players
Club at the university and was supported financially by Juan Luna
when his funds ran out. He admired the methodical and disciplined
German way of life, noticing their respectful greetings and
introduction etiquette. Rizal was enchanted by Heidelberg's castles
and vibrant spring flowers, reminiscent of his home in Calamba.
This nostalgia inspired him to write the poem "To the Flowers of
Heidelberg." In a letter to his sister Trinidad, he compared German
and Filipina women's traits, praising the former's seriousness,
diligence, and focus on education over material things.
Rizal's Heidelberg experience profoundly impacted his view on
women's growth and civic involvement. He advised his sister,
Trinidad, to focus on learning and intellectual growth while
resisting indolence.
Wilhelmsfeld
To alleviate his homesickness, Jose Rizal spent three months during the summer in
Wilhelmsfeld at the residence of Reverend Karl Ullmer. The small town is situated atop
a hill, around 13 kilometers north of Heidelberg. To reach there from Heidelberg, Rizal
walked for about three hours, crossing the Neckar River and passing through the
picturesque Odenwald forest. He stayed in a room of Ullmer's vicarage and found the
place serene and tranquil, which provided him the ideal environment to work on the
concluding chapters of his novel "Noli Me Tangere."
In the heart of Wilhelmsfeld, Rizal engaged in discussions with Fr. Heinrich Bardorf, a
Catholic priest, at the Schriesheimer Hof inn. Their conversations about religion
fostered Rizal's appreciation for religious tolerance. He admired how Bardorf, a
Catholic, and Ullmer, a Protestant, respected each other's faith. Their discussions
emphasized unity and brotherhood, transcending religious differences.
During his stay, Rizal honed his sketching skills and improved his German language
proficiency. In June 1886, he left Wilhelmsfeld and returned to Heidelberg.
Leipzig
In Leipzig, Rizal attended history and psychology lectures at the University.
He befriended Professor Friedrich Ratzel and Hans Meyer, a notable
anthropologist and author. Meyer had visited the Philippines for two months in
1882, and shared indigenous culture insights with Rizal. Professor Ratzel
praised Rizal's intellect, shaped by experiences across three continents.
During his time in Leipzig, Rizal worked as a proofreader for a publishing
company. On October 12, 1886, he translated Schiller's play "William Tell"
from German to Tagalog, aiming to familiarize Filipinos with the story of the
Swiss champion of independence. He also translated five fairy tales by Hans
Christian Andersen, including "The Ugly Duckling," and sent a copy to his
brother for the benefit of his fellow countrymen.
Rizal appreciated Leipzig's tranquility and affordability, finding it a suitable
place to live. He engaged in gymnastics and joined a local gymnasium, which charged
a modest fee of 75 pfennigs per month. Leipzig became a productive and peaceful
environment for Rizal's intellectual pursuits and personal growth
Berlin
On November 1, 1886, Jose Rizal arrived in Berlin and took up residence at
the Central Hotel. His time in Berlin proved to be a highly rewarding
experience with several aims: mastering the German language, expanding his
knowledge in humanities, history, and languages, studying German
ethnography, specializing in ophthalmology, participating in various
organizations alongside German scholars, and publishing his novel "Noli Me
Tangere."
Joining the Geographic and Ethnographic Association, Rizal presented a well-
received paper on Tagalog verse, showcasing his linguistic prowess. He
immersed himself in ophthalmology, assisting in clinics and attending
conferences.
Rizal led a modest life but faced malnutrition due to excessive
studying, physical training, and buying books. To support the
printing of "Noli Me Tangere," he pawned his sister's diamond
ring and received financial help from Dr. Maximo Viola. After
publication, Rizal and Viola toured Europe extensively,
absorbing cultural experiences.
Considering a return to the Philippines, Viola worried about
Rizal's safety due to the controversial book. Rizal, determined
to help his mother's eyesight, left Berlin by train on May 11,
1887, with a stop in Dresden to explore key sites.
Dresden
In Dresden, Rizal and Viola attended a floral exposition and visited Dr.
Adolph Meyer at the Dresden Museum. They saw art like Prometheus Bound by
Rubens and then sailed to Leitmeritz, Bohemia, where they met Ferdinand
Blumentritt, an Austrian scholar and director of the Athenaeum. Blumentritt
recognized Rizal from photographs and helped them find accommodation at
Hotel Krebbs.
Blumentritt, a pioneer in Philippine studies, became a close friend through
correspondence. Rizal was surprised by Filipino dishes cooked by
Blumentritt's wife and enjoyed a three-day visit. Their friendship started
when Rizal sent a book, and Blumentritt reciprocated with a book about
Austria, sparking a lasting exchange of letters and ideas.
Blumentritt aided Rizal in various studies, including Mindanao's map and
ethnography. He suggested Rizal explore ethnography, leading to translations
of works and meetings with German naturalists. Rizal continued his travels
to Prague after this insightful stay.
Prague
After Dresden, Rizal and Viola went to the historic city of Prague, where
they visited Dr. Willkomn, a professor of Natural History, upon the
recommendation of Dr. Blumentritt. They also visited the tomb of
Copernicus, the famous astronomer; the Museum of Natural History; the
Bacteriological Laboratories; and the famous cave where San Juan
Nepomuceno was imprisoned.
Vienna
On May 20, 1887, Rizal and Viola arrived in the beautiful city of Vienna.
They stayed at Hotel Metropole and visited many interesting places in the
city, including churches, museums. art galleries, and public parks.
Lintz
In Lintz, Rizal and Viola rented a boat to see the Danube River. During
the trip, Rizal observed the river, the barges loaded with products, and
the boats with families living on them.
Rheinfall
Rizal and Viola then went to Munich to taste its beer, considered the best
in Germany then. They also visited Ulm Cathedral, the tallest building in
Germany at the time, saw the Rin Waterfalls which was widely regarded as the
most beautiful in Europe.
Geneva
Rizal and Viola enjoyed their time in beautiful Geneva. While crossing
Leman Lake, Rizal was reminded of his Calamba childhood. But upon
arrival, news from Madrid about the degrading treatment of the Igorots at
the Madrid Exposition saddened Rizal deeply. He resented the mockery and
degradation inflicted on his fellow Filipinos by the Spaniards.
Italy
On June 23, 1887, Rizal and Viola parted ways. Viola returned to Barcelona,
and Rizal journeyed through Italy, visiting cities like Turin, Milan,
Venice, Florence, Rome, and the Vatican. He marveled at St. Peter's
Basilica, admired artwork, and experienced the grandeur of St. Peter's
Square. After a week of exploration, he decided to return to the
Philippines, having informed his father of his impending homecoming.
Rizal's decision to return
to the Philippines
Rizal's Noli Me Tangere copies reached the Philippines,
attracting attention from authorities and making him a target.
Despite warnings from friends and family, he decided to return
due to epidemics, his father's property issues, his mother's
cataracts, and news about his fiancée Leonor Rivera.
He sailed on July 5, 1887, via the Suez Canal, reaching Manila
on August 3. He briefly stayed, visiting friends, finding
Manila unchanged since his departure five years prior.
Homecoming in
Calamba
Homecoming in Calamba
Upon his return to Calamba, Rizal took a steamboat to Biñan, then boarded
one of Capitan Luis Yangco's ships to reach Calamba on August 8, 1887. His
family was relieved and overjoyed to see him, but concerns for his safety
led his father and Paciano to restrict his activities. He opened a medical
clinic in Calamba and successfully operated on his mother's cataracts,
gaining local fame as a doctor and earning around 900 pesos.
Rizal had planned to marry Leonor Rivera and leave with his sister Sisa, but
circumstances changed. His father, Paciano, and Leonor's mother opposed
their union. He also encountered challenges related to his novel "Noli Me
Tangere," which he attempted to retrieve from the Ateneo, where his
professors valued the book greatly. When he presented a copy of the novel to
Governor-General Terrero, he appointed a young Spanish lieutenant, Don Jose
Taviel de Andrade, as his bodyguard and served as his eyes and ears. Rizal
could guess what his enemies demanded; that he be jailed or be placed under
constant surveillance, with the police guard to follow him.
Noli Me Tangere Condemned
Father Pedro Payo, the Dominican Archbishop of Manila, sent a copy of "Noli
Me Tangere" to the University of Santo Tomas for examination. A committee of
three members, Father Matias Gomez, Norberto del Prado, and Fernandes Arias,
found the novel heretical, impious, scandalous from a religious perspective,
and antipatriotic, and subversive. They submitted their report on August 30,
1887, stating that the book was subversive against the Spanish government.
The report was referred to the Permanent Commission of Censorship, led by
Father Font, the Augustinian Cura of Tondo. This Commission condemned the
novel, citing it as an attack against religion, the state, the Spanish
administration, civil guards, and Spain's integrity.
Despite the ban, the masses were eager to obtain copies of "Noli Me
Tangere," making it very popular. Father Jose Rodriguez published a pamphlet
entitled "Caiingat Cayo" (Beware) in 1888, condemning the book for its
alleged heresy. However, some defended the novel. Marcelo H. del Pilar,
writing under the pseudonym Plaridel, criticized Father Font's
qualifications and published a pamphlet with a similar title to Father
Rodriguez's to counter his arguments.
Father Vicente Garcia, a Catholic theologian, defended the novel under the
pen name Justo Desiderio Magalang. He refuted the claims made by Father
Rodriguez and emphasized that Rizal's work criticized immoral Spanish
officials and friars rather than attacking the church and Spain. Garcia's
defense was published in Singapore in 1888.
Calamba's Agrarian Unrest
The issue arose when Governor-General Terrero initiated an investigation into the friars'
estates to address agrarian problems, including land taxes and tenant relations. One of the
affected estates was the Dominican-owned hacienda in Calamba. Rizal assisted in collecting
facts and grievances against the management of the hacienda. The tenants of Calamba sought
Rizal's help to represent their interests. The findings were presented to the government for
action.
The Dominican-owned hacienda encompassed not just the lands around Calamba but extended to
other areas.
1. The tenants faced arbitrary increases in their rent payments.
2. The hacienda owner did not contribute to the town fiesta, education of tenants' children,
or agricultural improvements.
3. Tenants who had worked hard to clear the lands were unjustly dispossessed for trivial
reasons.
4. Excessive interest rates were imposed on delayed rental payments, leading to the
confiscation of carabaos, tools, and possessions when tenants couldn't pay.
These issues highlighted the struggles faced by the tenants and the injustices perpetrated by
the hacienda management.
Rizal Leaves the Philippines
Governor-General Terrero summoned Rizal and advised him to leave the
country for his safety. Rizal promised to leave but didn't specify a
departure date. Despite having a fever, Rizal left Calamba with the
support of his cousins and brothers-in-law, who pledged to protect him
if needed. He departed Manila on February 3, 1888, driven by his
concern for the safety of his family and friends. Rizal wasn't afraid
to face his enemies and was willing to die for his cause. He believed
that he could better fight for his country's interests by writing from
abroad.
Before leaving, Rizal composed a poem in 1888 titled "Himno al Trabajo"
(Hymn to Labor) dedicated to the hardworking people of Lipa.
Prepared By Group V
CONEJERO,JOCO RAVEN DABALOS. LENY B. CRISOSTOMO, JERRYMIE
CREATED BY: LENY B.
DABALOS
Thank you!
