EXPLANATION

Liberalism represents a belief system centered around the individual and a community where people can
actively follow and achieve their aspirations. In modern times, the term "liberal" pertains to a particular
political stance. This ideology asserts that people fundamentally possess rationality and should have the
opportunity for extensive freedom, while ensuring this freedom aligns with the well-being of all.
Nevertheless, the notions of equality and equitable chances should be matched with accountability and
diligent effort. The evolution of liberal thought in the Philippines can be traced back to the
Enlightenment movement in Western Europe, which led to the American Declaration of Independence
and the French Revolution. This movement promoted individual freedom, justice, and equality,
challenging traditional institutions. Prominent figures like Locke, Montesquieu, and Jefferson
championed liberalism, leading to intellectual debates.

Liberal thought spread to European colonies, particularly the Philippines, during the late 19th century.
Governor Maria Dela Torres introduced liberal policies, granting native Filipinos freedom and tolerance.
However, Spanish political power changed, limiting Torres' rule from 1868 to 1870. Execution of three
Filipino priests, GOMBURZA, influenced Rizal’s worldview. In Europe, he could express liberal ideas
without fear of persecution, becoming a leading voice of liberalism. Kasi from a young age, Rizal
displayed a profound interest in liberal concepts through his various writings. His ideas about the value
of education, justice, individual freedoms, and equality under the law found expression in his renowned
poems, essays, and novels. Rizal was not only innately skilled as a writer but was also destined to
become a disseminator of liberalism within the Philippines. Nakikita ni Rizal na kailangan baguhin ang
kolonyal at nakapangingibabaw na sistema ng mga prayle. Isa to sa kanyang mga pinaglabanan. Ang
pamahalaan ay dapat hiwalay sa simbahan. Pero mukhang nangyari din na nakita ni Rizal na rebolusyon
din ang natatanging solusyon sa current state Pilipinas noon. Ang kanyang mga mapanghamong nobela
at sanaysay ay mga gawa nya that promote the force of liberalism and nationalism.

Rizal was certain that liberal ideas will be implemented in the Philippines. Rizal warned Spain in his essay
"The Philippines in the Century Hence," published in 1889, that if it did not alter its treatment of
indigenous, it would lose the Philippines to Imperial America. His forecast was subsequently verified by
history. Rizal's campaign for liberal change, ay naging sanhi ng kanyang pagkamatay. He accepted it
without hesitation, giving his life for the cause of independence from Spain. Rizal's execution in 1896
signified the end of a peaceful campaign for liberal change and the beginning of an armed war for
freedom against the oppression of tyranny.
SUMMARIZATION

Liberalism is a political and moral ideology that emphasizes liberty, consent of the governed, and
equality under the law. It is frequently associated with Western thought, emphasizing individualism,
equality, and freedom while criticizing tradition and collectivism. Liberalism originated in the Philippines
during Spanish colonialism and strengthened during American control, influencing legislation, culture,
and Rizal's thought. Rizal's support for liberalism earned him the title of national hero, with his works
advocating for education, justice, and independence. The emergence of liberalism in the Philippines may
be traced back to the 17th-18th century European Enlightenment movement, which was highlighted by
events such as the American Declaration of Independence and the French Revolution. Liberal principles
affected European colonies, notably the Philippines, and governmental changes implemented by people
such as Governor Maria Dela Torres helped to establish liberalism. Rizal's stay in Europe strengthened his
liberal views, propelling him to prominence in the Philippines as a leading voice for liberalism. His faith in
the inevitability of liberal policies culminated in his sacrifice, igniting the armed battle for liberty. Rizal's
legacy endures, nurturing the seed of liberalism with his own blood for the sake of the nation's security.