Jose Rizal Ang Buhay ng isang Bayani Documentary

The video introduces Jose Rizal, highlighting his various epithets such as a brave novelist, a hero shot in Luneta, and a poet. It poses questions about his true identity, the Philippines he grew up in, and the ideals he fought for.

The documentary references Rizal's "Memorias de un Estudiante de Manila," detailing his birth on June 19, 1861, and the near-fatal birth that led his mother, Teodora Alonso (Lolay), to vow to the Virgin of Antipolo. It describes Lolay as an extraordinary, well-read woman who instilled a love for learning in her children. His father, Francisco Mercado (Kikoy), though quiet, was sensitive and supportive. Rizal's childhood involved painting, sculpting, and listening to mythical stories, which ended when he was sent away to study at nine years old.

Rizal's initial schooling under Maestro Justiano Cruz was tough, marked by frequent beatings despite his academic excellence. He later recounts his mother's wrongful imprisonment, an incident that deeply affected his trust in others. At 11, he enrolled in Ateneo Municipal in Manila, where he initially struggled with Spanish but later excelled, graduating with honors and five medals.

Despite his academic achievements, Rizal felt a sense of melancholy upon graduation. His mother initially resisted his further education, fearing for his life due to his intelligence. He then studied philosophy at the University of Santo Tomas and later medicine, after discovering his mother's failing eyesight. During this time, he met and fell in love with Segunda Katigbak, his first love, and later with his relative, Leonor Rivera.

Rizal endured a brutal encounter with a lieutenant of the Guardia Civil, which went unaddressed by authorities. This sparked his awareness of the injustices faced by Filipinos. He won a literary contest with 'El Consejo de los Dioses', but his victory as an 'Indio' was met with silence. Realizing the limitations in the Philippines, he decided to study in Spain, supported clandestinely by his brother Paciano, who sacrificed his own dreams.

Rizal's journey to Europe was filled with new discoveries but also loneliness, which he channeled into writing. He experienced cultural differences and connected with other Filipino intellectuals like Mariano Ponce and Marcelo H. del Pilar. In his time in Madrid, he gave a speech honoring Juan Luna and Felix Hidalgo, advocating for reforms in the Philippines. His family faced persecution and financial struggles due to his activism. He trained in ophthalmology in Paris and Heidelberg, Germany, constantly communicating with his family and new friends, including Ferdinand Blumentritt with whom he developed a profound friendship. During this time, he completed 'Noli Me Tángere', published with the help of Maximo Viola.

Upon his return to the Philippines, Rizal was initially welcomed for his medical skills, but his novel soon stirred controversy. He was summoned by the Governor-General and placed under military surveillance due to the friars' complaints. Despite being advised to leave, Rizal remained for some time, challenging the accusations against him. Eventually, he left for Hong Kong, Japan, and then America, where he observed the disparity between a powerful nation and lingering injustices. In England, he diligently worked on reprinting Antonio de Morga's 'Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas' to counter Spanish claims of a uncivilized pre-colonial Philippines. He also wrote for 'La Solidaridad', defending Filipino culture and fighting for their rights.

Rizal's family and friends faced increasing persecution, including land disputes and forced exile, intensifying his resolve. A conflict arose between Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar over the leadership of Filipinos in Madrid, causing Rizal deep hurt. Further emotional blow struck him when he learned of Leonor Rivera's marriage to an Englishman, despite her earlier promises of fidelity. This heartbreak profoundly affected him.

Seeking solace, Rizal moved to Biarritz, France, where he rekindled his love life with Nelly Boustead, a woman also courted by Antonio Luna. Despite his personal desires, he prioritized his work. He later struggled to publish his second novel, 'El Filibusterismo', due to financial constraints but found support from Valentin Ventura. He returned to Hong Kong, reuniting with his family who had also fled persecution. Despite the brief peace, Rizal's conscience urged him to continue his work for change. He founded 'La Liga Filipina' and sought to establish a Filipino settlement in Borneo. Granted conditional permission to return to the Philippines, he was aware of the risks.

Rizal was exiled to Dapitan, where he lived with a military commandant and found a companion in Josephine Bracken. They formed a bond and even won a lottery, allowing him to buy land. He established a clinic and a school, actively engaging in scientific studies and staying in touch with Blumentritt. Josephine joined him in Dapitan, enduring societal disapproval for their unmarried union. Despite his attempts to avoid political involvement, his writings and actions greatly influenced the Katipunan rebellion. In an attempt to end his exile, he volunteered as a doctor in Cuba. However, en route, he was arrested and sent back to the Philippines to face charges of rebellion. Imprisoned in Fort Santiago, he was sentenced to death. On his last days, he met with his family, asking for forgiveness and entrusting them with his final messages, including his last poem hidden in a lamp. He exchanged farewells with his loved ones, including a poignant letter to his brother Paciano, expressing gratitude for his sacrifices.