RZL10 A5

Kyle Marc T. Cotejo

November 17, 2015

Dr. Melba Bergado

Score:__________

The Jose in Rizal

Equivalent to the American John, Jose is the representation of all Filipino men. It is
not only a basic or common name for Filipinos; it also embodies the Filipino-ness residing in
each and every one of us. Jose Rizal, given the name that echoes even today, has forever altered
history for us to progress and develop a brighter future. The day he took his first step in Madrid
up to his first and last step on the Filipino soil, he had fought hard and relentlessly for the
Philippines freedom.
During our Educational Tour through the prominent landmarks dedicated for Dr. Jose
Rizal, I could not help myself but realize what the legends he has left for us. It felt really
prodigious to step on the Rizal Shrine as it was where Jose or Pepe, as he was known during his
childhood, grew up and been figured into a patriotic and selfless hero. The house that used to be
Pepes four corners of learning, and enjoyment, is now filled with historical artifacts and info
graphics that tells the stories that occurred during and after his stay at that home and some
information about his brother, sisters and parents. I realized that even as a child Pepe has been a
prodigy and an embodiment of excellence in all forms of learning and knowledge.
After walking down Jose Rizals childhood memory lane, we ventured to the place where
he last fought for our country. It is overwhelming and eye-opening to be there. It is as if the
ground of Luneta Park is a reminder to each and every Filipino that millions have died and a
great man died for the freedom and progress of the Philippines as a country for the Filipinos. It
awakened my Filipino spirit to truly become a Filipino in actions, words and wisdom. It made
me feel inadequate as a countryman but at the same time, inspired to aspire to be, more or less,
like Dr. Jose Rizal.
Still filled with awe-inspiring patriotism, we travelled through the ruins of Fort Santiago
where Rizal was kept in hellish punishment which he endured for days as a symbol of
perseverance and spiritual, physical and emotional strength. Who would believe that a single
man, with a pen and a unyielding spirit, could alter history for the Spaniards and the Filipinos?
Yes, Dr. Jose Rizal isnt just a Filipino; he is the Filipino every one of us should become.
He is not just our national hero; he is the epitome of Philippine Independence, engraved in the
souls of all Filipinos of today and tomorrow.