Republic Act 1425 (Rizal)

Republic Act 1425

Also known as the Rizal Law, it mandates the inclusion of courses on Jose Rizal's life, works, and writings (especially Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo) in the curricula of all public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the Philippines. It was established on June 12, 1956.

Sponsor of the Rizal Law

Senator Claro M. Recto, who authored RA 1425.

Primary Purpose of the Rizal Law

To strengthen Filipino nationalism by requiring the study of Rizal's life and works in all educational institutions, ensuring youth imbibe his ideals of freedom and nationalism.

Main Goals of the Rizal Law

1) Rededicate the lives of the youth to the ideals of freedom and nationalism. 2) Pay tribute to Rizal for shaping Filipino character. 3) Provide an inspiring source of patriotism through Rizal's life, works, and writings.

Key Qualities in a National Hero (National Historical Commission)

Just, Patient, Courageous, Bearer of Wisdom, Respectful, Nationalist.

Criteria for Choosing the Philippine National Hero (National Historical Commission)

Must be a Filipino citizen, a Patriot/nationalist, already deceased, and Patient.

Contested Claims about Rizal's National Hero Proclamation

Claims (as cited in the transcript, not historically factual) include: 1) He was the illegitimate son of Adol Hitler; 2) Alleged cowardice to fight colonizers through revolution; 3) Regarded as an American-made hero by the First Philippine Commission to hinder nationalist feelings.