NG, Denzel N.

A56
Exercise 1.1.3 Rizal Bill
When it comes to the Philippines, it is well known that the Catholic Church is a controversial
institution which has strongly differing perceptions on a variety of issues, and among these are several
issues on which Filipino viewpoints differ considerably. They gain a significant amount of their power
from enacting the Rizal law (Republic Act No. 1425) and Reproductive health bill (Republic Act No.
10354). In accordance with RH Bill, all Filipino citizens will have access to every modern contraceptive,
such as fertility control, sexual education, and maternal care throughout the Philippines. Among the
societal issues addressed by this bill are difficulties associated with pregnancy, the rise in accidental
childbirths, and the growth of abortions that are performed illegally. Due to the legalization of abortion
and the availability of contraception, it was viewed negatively and immoral by the Catholic Church.
Additionally, Republic Act No. 1425, also known as the Rizal Law, outlines a set of requirements that all
Philippine educational institutions must follow on how to incorporate the teachings of José Rizal into
their educational programs. It aims at teaching the students’ knowledge of liberty and nationalism.
Despite the law's stated goal of revitalizing Filipino nationalism, the Catholic Church immediately
opposed it in the same way as with the RH bill because they viewed it as an outrage against the rights of
conscientious people.
Since the Catholic Church has considerable influence within the nation, it has a substantial role to
play in politics. Considering the conservative nature of the Filipinos, it is understandable why some
Filipinos are concerned about the development. While most church leaders know that the RH bill and the
Rizal law have adverse effects on the Catholic community. however, I disagree with their assertions
because it is a fact that both the Rizal Law and the RH Bill contributed to the overall development of the
Filipino people by raising their level of thinking and presenting opportunities for them. Consequently, the
Rizal Bill opened opportunities for young Filipinos and provided a greater array of family planning
options for Filipinos in need of childcare. And I believe that both laws have improved the lives of all
Filipinos.
While the objectives of the Rizal law and the RH bill may differ, they still have a lot in common.
The legacy of Rizal, in which he promoted education, knowledge, and development, resonates into the
present day, and was also reflected in the proposed RH law. And It is true that the hierarchy of the
Catholic church opposed Rizal legislation in a similar way to those who opposed RH legislation, but their
arguments differed from those offered in opposition to RH legislation. As an argument against the RH
measure, the Catholic Church argued that the Rizal legislation violated its freedom of conscience and
religion, and accordingly its implementation was incompatible with Catholic ideals and moral
expectations. Although knowing that both the Rizal law and RH bill are aimed at improving the lives of
Filipinos, we clearly see the similarities between the two laws. However, both laws are opposed by the
Catholic Church.
As a final note, the Rizal Law and the RH bill were aimed at entirely different objectives, and it is
intriguing to reflect on how the Catholic Church's conservative position influenced the opposition to both
legislations. The most profound realization that came to me was their willingness to intervene in defense
of their principles and beliefs. Additionally, the Church has a huge impact on Filipino lives that is
significant enough to influence our laws. Despite the positive impact that the RH bill and the Rizal Law
have had on the Filipinos, the Church remains conservative.