05.1 - Rizal Exile, Trial, and Death (Part 1) | Life and Works of Rizal

Recent questions

• What is La Liga Filipina?

  La Liga Filipina, or "The Filipino League," was an organization founded by Jose Rizal upon his return to the Philippines in 1892. Its establishment aimed to promote unity among Filipinos and address various social issues of the time. The League had five primary goals: fostering mutual protection, defending against injustice, developing local industries, and studying necessary reforms. The motto "Unus Instar Omnium," meaning "Each is like all," highlighted the importance of collective identity among Filipinos during the 19th century. However, the Spanish government viewed La Liga with suspicion due to its secretive nature and the involvement of Masons, especially in light of Rizal's controversial novel, "El Filibusterismo." The League's dual purpose—whether it was reformist or aimed at independence—has been a subject of historical debate.

• Why was Rizal arrested in 1892?

  Jose Rizal was arrested on July 6, 1892, just three days after founding La Liga Filipina. His arrest stemmed from the discovery of "seditious papers" in his sister Lucia's luggage, which the authorities interpreted as evidence of his involvement in anti-colonial activities. The charges against him included anti-Catholic sentiments and political dissent, reflecting the close relationship between the Spanish clergy and the colonial government. Rizal's writings and his role in La Liga were seen as threats to the established order, leading to his swift arrest and subsequent exile to Dapitan, where he would spend the next four years.

• What did Rizal do during his exile?

  During his exile in Dapitan, Jose Rizal transformed a challenging situation into a productive and impactful period. He engaged in various activities, including farming, teaching, and practicing medicine. Rizal won a significant lottery prize, which he used to purchase agricultural land in Talisay, where he established a home, farm, school, and clinic. He actively promoted modern agricultural practices among local farmers, encouraging them to adopt techniques like crop rotation and the use of fertilizers. Additionally, he constructed a water system to provide clean water and reduce malaria cases in the area. Rizal's commitment to education led him to establish a school for boys, where he taught subjects such as Spanish, English, and mathematics, integrating practical farming work into the curriculum.

• How did Rizal contribute to local agriculture?

  Jose Rizal made significant contributions to local agriculture during his exile in Dapitan by promoting modern farming techniques and encouraging local farmers to improve their practices. He partnered with his brother-in-law, Manuel Hidalgo, to sell abaca, a lucrative crop, and shared knowledge about effective agricultural methods. Rizal identified the locals' limited fishing skills and provided them with large nets, teaching them how to enhance their fishing techniques. His vision included establishing an agricultural colony at Ponot, where he believed farming could uplift the community. Rizal's efforts not only improved agricultural productivity but also fostered a sense of community and self-sufficiency among the local population.

• What was Rizal's view on revolution?

  Jose Rizal held a cautious perspective on revolution, believing that Filipinos were not yet prepared for an uprising against colonial rule. He emphasized the importance of patience and thorough preparation before pursuing independence. Despite being approached by members of the revolutionary Katipunan, Rizal declined to support their immediate revolutionary plans, arguing that independence must be earned rather than demanded. His discussions with Pio Valenzuela revealed his thoughts on the need for strategic planning and support from the elite in Manila. Although Valenzuela later claimed that Rizal supported the revolution, he retracted this statement, reinforcing Rizal's belief in the necessity of careful consideration and readiness before taking action.