Summary
Highlights
Despite warnings from family and friends, Jose Rizal returned to the Philippines on June 26, 1892. He was immediately met by patriots like Apolinario Mabini, Deodato Arellano, and Andres Bonifacio, leading to the establishment of La Liga Filipina. The league had five main objectives: unity, mutual protection, defense, development (education, industrial, agricultural enterprises), and the study and implementation of reforms. Its motto was "Unus Instar Omnium" (One like all).
The nature of La Liga Filipina remains a topic of debate among historians. Some view it as a reformist organization, aiming for assimilation with Spain, similar to the Propaganda Movement's goals. Others, like Floro Quibuyen, argue it was a separatist organization, designed to establish an independent Philippine nation. Quibuyen points to the league's objectives, such as unity and defense, as responsibilities of a state, not just an organization. Rizal's use of the term 'reformas' in the context of the Liga is interpreted by Quibuyen as meaning 'revolutionary changes' rather than mere concessions. Rizal's letters to Blumentritt also indicate a growing disillusionment with Spain and a desire for independence.
Three days after La Liga Filipina's establishment, Rizal was arrested on July 6, 1892. The reason for his arrest was not the league itself, but seditious papers found in his sister Lucia's pillowcase upon their arrival. These papers reportedly satirized Dominican friars. Rizal was charged with various religious and political offenses and subsequently exiled to Dapitan. The Spanish authorities chose Dapitan due to its remoteness and the presence of Jesuit missionaries, hoping Rizal would return to his Catholic faith.
In Dapitan, Rizal transformed his exile into a period of meaningful contribution. He won 20,000 pesos in the lottery, using 4,000 pesos to purchase agricultural lands in Talisay. He embraced the roles of a farmer, introducing modern agricultural practices and fishing techniques to the locals. As a teacher, he established a school for boys, emphasizing practical education, nature study, and physical training. He applied his surveying skills to build a water system for Dapitan and, with Fr. Sanchez, created a large relief map of Mindanao. As a physician, he offered free medical services to the poor, often making house calls. His medical practice led to his meeting and romance with Josephine Bracken.
Following Rizal's exile, La Liga Filipina fragmented, leading to the emergence of the radical Katipunan, led by Andres Bonifacio. The Katipunan sought Rizal's support for a revolution. Pio Valenzuela visited Rizal in Dapitan to inform him of their plans and offer an escape. Rizal declined, stating that the Filipinos were not yet ready for a revolution, an argument interpreted by some as a sign of cowardice or assimilationist views. However, Rizal's use of terms like 'patience' and 'untimeliness' suggests he believed in the need for preparedness, funds, weapons, and strong leadership before undertaking such a drastic action. Valenzuela's later memoirs, despite initial conflicting statements, confirm Rizal's support for independence but with a focus on strategic readiness.
Blumentritt suggested Rizal offer his services as a military doctor in Cuba, which was also experiencing a revolution and yellow fever epidemic, in exchange for ending his exile. In 1896, Governor-General Ramon Blanco approved Rizal's offer. However, on his way to Cuba, Rizal's ship received a telegram ordering his arrest. He was returned to Manila and accused of being involved in the burgeoning Philippine Revolution, led by Bonifacio and the Katipunan.