LIBUTAN, Jan Christian L.

PI 10 C
2015 - 65060 June 29, 2018

The Ageless Face of Patriotism

I have always doubted my ability in making a significant change for our country. There were times
when I actually asked myself what have I done for my beloved nation during my past twenty years of
existence. And the truth is, I am ashamed to admit my insufficiency of actions to my duties, a
threatening dilemma which I know not just me, but the majority of today’s youth is facing.

Recently, I was given an opportunity to watch this film entitled “ Bayaning 3rd World” by Mike De
Leon. The story revolved on depicting three main controversies surrounding Rizal’s life. These are the
following: First, Rizal’s stand regarding the Philippine Revolution (whether he was pro or against it);
Second, the issues within the retraction system before he died, and last is the credibility of Rizal’s
marriage and relationship with Josephine Bracken.

Rizal, as depicted in the movie, was observed to have a strong stand to gain independence without
resulting to revolution. This led to different speculation’s which question’s Rizal’s bravery, such as
whether he was not courageous enough to face the enemies with shields and swords, or he deliberately
fight the Spaniards through pen in order to protect his identity. In my opinion, it is not that important
what means should an individual resort to in able to show his nationalism and patriotism. What matters
most is the heart and will to assure that the act leads to fruition. Considering Rizal, he might not be with
the majority of the masses during his campaign but still his works and writings awakened the mind of
the Filipinos to sought for the country’s freedom and independence.

The second issue regarding the retraction of Rizal’s statements towards the Catholic church
intrigued the Filipinos the most. As shown in the movie, Rizal made a retraction letter right before his
final moments in his life. Its credibility is still vague since it was not proven yet whether the signature in
the letter was authentic or not. Had it been proven true, this will surely negate all that he fought for
throughout his life. The contradiction between his act and this investigated evidence will disrupt the
minds of the Filipinos and will hurt his reputation badly. Regardless whether this was falsified or not, a
speculation is enough an impact in the way how Filipinos view Rizal’s deeds and patriotism.

In accordance with the previous issues discussed in the movie, the relationship between Rizal and
Josephine Bracken was debated as well. Countless rumors and speculations arise from this issue
especially regarding their son’s true biological parents. Regardless of any of this, what this issue
portrays is that, though not known for having a viable document, Rizal and Bracken lived together
despite the continuous objection of Rizal’s family to their relationship. It can be observed in this
scenario that living together without being officially married was already practiced in the old times.
 When duty and responsibility for the country are being discussed, age is often correlated to how
well a person can perform his services to his nation. Until now, many people still believe they can only
do less for their country because they are just young citizens who do not have enough power to start a
change. We are indeed missing something very important. That is, the youth is the future of this
country.Like Rizal and the thousands of Filipino heroes, we are never too young to love and serve our
nation. Yes, we are no young patriots.