Name: Angel Mae B.

Sabongan SECTION:1B

Retraction of Rizal
(Position Paper)

The retraction of Jose Rizal refers to the controversial event in Philippine history
where the national hero, Jose Rizal, allegedly retracted his nationalist beliefs and
renounced his support for Philippine independence just before his execution in
1896. This topic has attracted significant attention and debate among scholars,
historians, and the Filipino public, raising questions about the authenticity of the
retraction and its implications on Rizal’s legacy.Rizal, known for his profound
influence in shaping Philippine history, was a key figure in the Philippine
Revolution against Spanish colonial rule. He advocated for social and political
reforms, championing the rights and welfare of the Filipino people. However, the
purported retraction has cast a shadow of doubt on his unwavering commitment to
the cause of Philippine independence.This essay delves into the controversies
surrounding the retraction of Jose Rizal, exploring the different perspectives and
arguments put forth by scholars and individuals who have studied and analyzed
this pivotal moment in Philippine history. By examining the historical context, the
testimonies, and the interpretations surrounding the retraction, this essay aims to
shed light on the significance and implications of this event and how it has shaped
the perception of Rizal's character and contributions to the Philippine struggle for
independence.

Yes, The evidence of the retraction of Jose Rizal is a subject of controversy and
debate among scholars and historians. While some argue that there is sufficient
evidence to support the claim of Rizal's retraction, others question its authenticity
and consider it a product of manipulation by the Spanish authorities. Here are some
of the pieces of evidence that are often cited in support of the retraction:

1. The Retraction Document: A document known as the "Retraction Document"

was allegedly signed by Jose Rizal on December 29, 1896, just a few hours
before his execution. This document contains a statement where Rizal
supposedly renounces his anti-Catholic beliefs, declares his allegiance to the
Roman Catholic Church, and repents for his nationalist activities. However, the
 authenticity of this document has been heavily questioned due to its anonymous
authorship and discrepancies in handwriting.
2. Catholic Witnesses: Several Catholic priests who accompanied Rizal during his
final moments claimed that he indeed made a retraction. Father Federico Faura,
a Jesuit priest, testified that Rizal confessed, received the sacraments, and
expressed his intention to retract his previous writings and activities against the
Catholic Church. This testimony is often cited as evidence of Rizal's retraction.
3. Eyewitness Accounts: Some eyewitnesses who were present during Rizal's
execution, including journalist Ramon Blanco, claimed that Rizal made a public
retraction by kissing a crucifix and uttering words of remorse and allegiance to
the Catholic Church before being shot. These accounts were recorded in
newspapers and journals of the time.
4. Secondary Sources: Several historians and biographers, such as Wenceslao
Retana and Rafael Palma, reference letters and accounts from Rizal's family and
friends that suggest his inclination towards retraction. These sources argue that
Rizal had a deep religious faith and respect for the Catholic Church, making a
retraction plausible.
The retraction of Rizal refers to a controversial event in Philippine history wherein
national hero Jose Rizal is said to have retracted or renounced his previous writings
against the Catholic Church and his membership in freemasonry. This retraction
supposedly took place shortly before Rizal's execution on December 30, 1896,
during the Philippine Revolution against Spanish colonial rule.
However, there is much debate and controversy surrounding the validity of Rizal's
retraction. Some historians and scholars argue that there is not enough evidence to
support the claim that Rizal actually retracted his beliefs and writings. They point
out that the retraction document itself is highly questionable, with discrepancies in
its content and questionable authenticity.Many believe that Rizal's alleged
retraction was most likely a result of pressure from the Catholic Church and the
Spanish colonial government, which saw Rizal as a threat to their authority. Rizal's
trial and execution were widely publicized, and the Church saw this as an
opportunity to discredit his ideas and beliefs.Despite the controversy, the alleged
retraction has been a topic of debate and discussion for many years, shaping the
interpretation of Rizal's life and legacy. Some argue that the retraction, if true, does
not diminish Rizal's contributions to the Philippines' struggle for independence and
his dedication to reforming society and championing national identity.