Noli Me Tangere: Chapter XXVII - The Friar and the Filipino

Father Fernandez invites Isagani to his room not to punish him for the previous night's rebellious sentiments, but to engage in a intellectual discussion. The friar admits to admiring students who think for themselves, even if they disagree with the Dominicans, while lamenting that most students act with hypocrisy by flattering friars while privately disparaging them.

Isagani challenges the friar's perspective, arguing that the lack of honesty stems from an oppressive environment where independent thought is labeled as 'filibusterism.' He accuses the friars of failing their duty to properly educate and dignify the youth, comparing them to providers who feed prisoners only what is spoiled to keep them weak and submissive.

Father Fernandez defends his order by claiming that friars are merely subjects of the colonial government's policies and must adapt, often against their own desires. Isagani counters this by stating that the friars should prioritize the improvement of their own institutions rather than blaming the colonial structure or the students' 'inherent nature.'

The debate ends with a bittersweet mutual respect. Father Fernandez pledges to inform his brothers of Isagani's points, though he fears no one will believe such a student exists. The chapter concludes on a somber note: as Isagani leaves to join his fellow students at the Civil Government, Fernandez mistakenly attributes Isagani’s brilliance to the Jesuits, while the Jesuit order actually fears Isagani's radical ideas will bring trouble upon them.