I - OPENING STATEMENT

Philippines have encountered many things in history, and this is one of the reasons why many
people have become well-known as a result of their positive or negative contributions to their
country's history. Many countries have encountered challenges, especially when they were only
starting to spread their culture, values, religion, and language. Other countries have been colonized
by another country, which has stolen their wealth and forced their people to labor as slaves, much like
the Spanish did for 333 years to our country. It has been exceedingly difficult for us to begin
constructing and refining our system since we were conquered by countries such as Spain, America,
and Japan. Despite being presented with such a terrible occurrence, we are adamant about
continuing on our road for the sake of our country. These are the reasons why Filipinos want to fight
for their own rights so that colonialism doesn't happen again, and this is where nationalism in the
Philippines begins.

IIa - 1ST – RRL

According to Allen (2011), this year marks the 150th anniversary of the birth of Rizal, a national
hero whose death helped advance the cause of independence in the Philippines. While studying
medicine in Europe, Rizal began writing essays and novels that explored the corruption of Spanish
colonial rule. Throughout his life, Rizal advocated for reforms in the Philippines, including legal
equality for Spaniards and Filipinos. Rizal was arrested in 1896 following an insurrection against
Spain; although he had no association with or involvement in the uprising, he was found guilty of
sedition and executed. His death angered many Filipinos, who began to rebel against Spanish rule.

IIb - ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION OF THE 1ST RRL

Rizal lauded the coming generation in the poem. Rizal's initial testimonial and exposition of his
nationalism may be found in this poem. Rizal explicitly referred to the Philippines as his
home/motherland in this literary work, and he saw youth as crucial to nation-building. Dr. Jose Rizal
wrote the poem "To the Filipino Young," which he dedicated to the Philippines' youth. He wished for
Filipino youth to use their strengths, talents, and skills to distinguish themselves not only for
themselves, but also for the acclaim and success of their motherland, the Philippines. Dr. Jose Rizal
wished for Filipino youngsters to develop their skills and use them to aid those in need. Dr. Jose Rizal
also exhorted the youth in this poem to refine and cultivate their artistic abilities, to enliven and
reinforce their scientific knowledge, and to look forward and continue their chain of obedience.

IIIa - 2ND RRL

As mentioned by Quiray (2018), Rizal could serve as a model for all times, for all places, and
for all people who cherish freedom and justice. He condemned the corrupt thinking of his fellow
Indios, demanding that they live with dignity and pride, as much as he denounced the abuses of the
colonial rulers. He would have rejected political dynasties or the economic disparity of foreign trade.
He would have decried the millennials’ declining participation and indifferent attitude. He would have
denounced the politicians who would rather promote their own agenda than that of the people. He
would have frowned upon those who would rather go abroad instead of employing their talents to
promote the welfare of their neighbors.

IIIb - ANALYSIS/DISCUSSION OF THE 2ND RRL

 On the other hand, the message that this poem, “To the Filipino Youth,” is attempting to
express is very strong; strong enough to persuade/induce those who must be persuaded/induced, the
Filipino Youth. As one of such folks, the minute I finished reading the poem, I could feel the
nationalistic courage within me glow brightly. It seemed as if you were telling me that I am one of our
country's existent hopes, and that with my skills, abilities, competence, and knowledge of things, I am
capable of safeguarding our country's freedom from any oppressive forces that may arise.
Furthermore, it felt as if someone was reminding me that I, along with my peers, is responsible for
protecting the Philippines as a nation for myself and the rest of the Filipinos, not for foreigners.

IV - GENERAL CONCLUSION

Dr. Jose Rizal's poem "To the Filipino Youth" is largely intended to convey the value of one's
love and admiration for one's dialect or language, as it serves as a bridge and mediator between
people's countries. Rizal lauded the coming generation in the poem. Rizal's initial testimonial and
exposition of his nationalism may be found in this poem. He definitely alluded to the Philippines as his
home/motherland in this literary composition. Rizal's concept in the poem refers to the role of the
youth in nation building. While I was reading it line by line, I was captivated and awestruck by the
style of writing, the message it seeks to convey, and, of course, the poem's honesty and authenticity.
These factors piqued my curiosity in continuing to read Jose Rizal's work. These were the poem's
main strengths, explaining why it captured my attention and time so completely and effectively.

V - CLOSING STATEMENT

Finally, in terms of the poem's sincerity, I regard "To the Filipino Youth" to be a work from the
heart with no conceit, boastfulness, haughtiness, or plasticity, based on how I felt while reading it and
the emotions depicted on each of the poem's lines. You can truly sense Dr. Jose Rizal's desire for
everyone to be enthusiastic. We, the youth, should be guided in dealing with the difficulties we face
today by a centered and powerful leadership, giving activities that will help us discover the true
essence of being a youth, and, of course, teaching what is truly right and vital and valuable to our
country. We must inspire our peers; we must instill in everyone the value of accountability and the
importance of setting goals. Because if we don't get everything straightened up, we'll be supporting
an entire generation of homeless and needy families in our country.

VI – REFERENCES

Allen, S. (2011, April 27). Library to receive two works by Filipino hero José Rizal. Retrieved from
Uchicago News: https://news.uchicago.edu/story/library-receive-two-works-filipino-hero-jose-
rizal
Quiray, E. (2018, May 5). How Rizal's life should be taught . Retrieved from Inquirer.net:
https://opinion.inquirer.net/112944/rizals-life-taught