I have never come across or got an awareness of the Republic Act 1425 or also

known as the Rizal Law before taking this subject. Thanks to this subject, I had

the chance to learn the law and have a knowledge of it. This law is especially

useful in raising the maka-Pilipino spirit, and I think it is important because it

reminds us to give honor to Jose Rizal, our national hero. The Republic Act No.

1425, or the Rizal law, mandates the teaching, printing, and dissemination of

Dr. Jose Rizal 's biography and works to both public and private schools and

universities. It is notable that the law was published on the date of our

independence, June 12. I believe that this was aimed to awaken the real,

faithful Filipino in each of us. The perfect role model of nationalism and

patriotism for the youth is Dr. Jose P. Rizal. His life, works and writing would

inspire and make us courageous and committed to our identity and nation.

Through learning the writings of our national hero, we may also understand

the independence that our heroes gave us years ago. They sacrificed their

lives not only to achieve our liberty, but also to achieve our national identity,

so it is a very important legacy to cherish and preserve. We can also connect

Rizal 's principles and teachings with current circumstances and situations in

our country. Our nationalism in the Philippines is fading nowadays. We

Filipinos, particularly young people, are prone to adopt other cultures in this

globalized world. Our own country lacks affection, but we tend to accept

foreign culture with open arms, or in short, colonial mentality.

With that said, we must be proud of our own culture and heritage, not another

country. With this act, the educational institutions will remind us that the

Philippines is a crucial aspect of our priorities. I believe the past is the key to

our future and as the majority of us believe, “Ang kabataan ang pag-asa ng

ating bayan.”