GomBurZa's Legacy in Filipino History and its Echoes of Justice

Today
The GomBurZa film stands as a powerful testament to the
struggle for independence and the birth of Filipino consciousness in
the face of colonial oppression. The film, centered around the
martyrdom of three priests—Mariano Gomez, Jose Burgos, and
Jacinto Zamora—unveils a significant chapter in Philippine history.
For me, the film did a great job of capturing the historical
background, beginning with the campaign spearheaded by Padre
Pedro Pelaez and later supported by Burgos. The arrival of liberal
Governor-General Carlos Maria de la Torre initially brought hope for
change and reform. The film introduces Father Burgos as a teacher,
leader, and the central figure of GomBurZa. His role as an educator is
highlighted through scenes of civil law discussions, conversations on
the constitution of the Church, and imparting important lessons to his
students.
However, the shift to the iron-fisted rule of Governor-General
Rafael Izquierdo marked a dark period. Izquierdo aimed to suppress
the emerging nationalism, leading to the execution of the three
priests, the exile of intellectuals, and the instigation of fear among
Filipinos.
As the film reaches the point of showing the courtroom
proceedings, I have observed their struggle for justice. Despite
opportunities for the priests to present their truths, the persecutors
had baseless accusations. This mirrors the contemporary issue of
"red-tagging," where speaking critically is unfairly equated with being
an enemy of the state. As a law student, I find that watching the
drama of GomBurZa develop on-screen provides an interesting
investigation into the connection between justice, opposition, and the
fight for liberation. The film provides a moving look into the legal
proceedings, highlighting the sharp contrast between the priests'
chance to speak their truths and the persecutors' strategies.
Moreover, the film emphasizes the resilience of the enlightened
even in the face of persecution. The deaths of GomBurZa inspired
others to continue the struggle, laying the groundwork for the
nationalist consciousness that eventually influenced Jose Rizal. The
scene where Father Burgos defiantly declares innocence before his
execution echoes the unjust persecution of those who stand for their
beliefs, drawing parallels to the crucifixion of Jesus. The unjust
persecution of GomBurZa, reminiscent of the crucifixion of Jesus,
raises fundamental questions about the role of law in safeguarding
dissent and protecting those who challenge societal norms.
The film's portrayal of the young Jose Rizal witnessing the
execution serves as a powerful metaphor for political awakening. The
trauma of seeing injustice unfold before his eyes became a catalyst
for Rizal's later involvement in the struggle for Philippine
independence. The film also explored the balance between
advocating for equal treatment and fighting for freedom. The historical
narrative serves as a reminder of the sacrifices made by those who
dared to challenge them, laying the foundation for the Filipino identity
and the ongoing struggle for justice and independence.
This resonates with the idea that legal injustices can shape the
trajectory of a nation and inspire future leaders. And I believe that
with this film, I hope that this generation will be aware, remember,
and never forget about it. This will help them not only to know the
facts but to be critical of what is happening today.
Moreover, the film also sheds light on the complex interplay
between the Catholic Church and the colonial government, illustrating
the church's quest for equal treatment in the face of Spanish
occupation. The movie also draws attention to the clash of
perspectives between the Catholic Church and the revolutionary
forces. The Church, depicted as cautious and preaching obedience,
sought equal treatment for local colonies under Spanish rule. This
perspective contrasts sharply with the revolutionary forces' cry for
freedom and equality. Hence, the difference on what they were all
standing up for.
With that, I agree that even if the deaths of these priests are all
in the past, their presence in our independence today has always
been alive. GomBurZa serves as a powerful narrative for a law
student like me because it prompts contemplation on the role of the
legal system in safeguarding rights, fostering intellectual discourse,
and addressing the pursuit of justice. The film serves as a reminder
that the echoes of the past continue to reverberate even today.