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Renold Vala

Republic Act No. 1425 (Rizal Law in 1956)

(Reflective Essay)

Are ideologies, patriotism, and heroism needed for the growth of individuals? This is the

question that came to me when I read the writings about the application of the law. As people, do

we need someone or something to see as an idol or an image of such characteristics for us to

improve and nurture ourselves. The Republic Act No. 1425, also known as the Rizal Law (The

Republic Act No. 1425 or Rizal Law, n.d.), was enacted on June 12, 1956, in the Philippines.

The law mandates the inclusion of the life, works, and writings of the country's national hero,

Jose Rizal, in the curricula of all public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the

country. The law aims to instill in the minds of the Filipino the ideals and principles of Rizal,

who fought for the country's freedom and independence from the Spanish colonizers without

utilizing a gun or a blade.

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The Rizal Law has been the subject of debate and controversy since its enactment. Some

have argued that it is an attack on academic freedom and that it limits the scope of education.

However, proponents of the law maintain that it is essential for promoting national consciousness

and unity (Guevara, A., 2015). The law has been instrumental in raising awareness about Rizal's
life and works among Filipinos, both young and old, and has sparked a renewed interest in

Philippine history and culture. The teaching and symbolism of Rizal’s work entice people to

have ideals, to believe and state what they stand for, to be patriotic, to be proud and confident as

Filipinos, and to be heroic, to be brave and face challenges. The life and works of Rizal open a

wide door for students to learn more not only about Rizal but also about their selves. By applying

his principles to our daily lives, we people would be able to speak up for ourselves, as he did

back then when we were under Spanish colonization.

In conclusion, Republic Act No. 1425 or the Rizal Law is an essential piece of legislation

that has helped promote national identity and pride in the Philippines. By requiring the teaching

of the life, works, and writings of Jose Rizal, the law has served as a reminder of the country's

struggle for independence and the importance of preserving its heritage. Despite the

controversies surrounding it, the Rizal Law remains a critical component of the Filipino

education system and serves as a testament to the country's commitment to its history and

culture.

Reference:

The Republic Act No. 1425 or Rizal Law. (n.d.). Official Gazette of the Republic of the

Philippines. Retrieved from https://www.officialgazette.gov.ph/1956/06/12/republic-act-no-

1425/

Guevara, A. (2015). The Rizal Law and the teaching of Philippine history. Southeast Asian

Studies, 4(3), 563-576. doi:10.20495/seas.4.3_563