The Life and Works of Rizal

Almost 130 years ago today, Dr. Jose P. Rizal arrived in London where he spent less than a year meeting with some of the most influential Orientalists in Europe and more importantly, worked on the formation of the Association Internationale Des Philippinistes or the Philippine Studies. Foreign service scholar Geronimo Suliguin, who is currently reading his Postgraduate Historical Studies from the prestigious Oxford University in England, narrated in his essay “Rizal, London and the Beginnings of Philippine Studies” on what transpired during those colorful days of our National Hero in London and his attempt to launch the Philippine Studies as he “wanted the Association to be truly international and planned to invite scholars who were interested in Philippine affairs.” Rizal was only 26 when he arrived in London in 1888. By: Roy Mabasa Read more:  https://mb.com.ph/2019/05/29/scholars-essay-narrates-jose-rizals-work-in-london/ Dr. Jose Rizal's London residence was given the honor of ...

The Chamber of Text, or Bulwagan ng Panulat features a number of writings by Rizal, including some of his scientific discoveries in Dapitan, replicas of his famous sculptures, and many more. The Bulwagan ng Panulat(Chamber of Text) in Fort Santiago  features a huge collection of works and writings by Dr. Jose Rizal.  The greatest achievement of Rizal in London was the annotating of Morga's book, Sucesos de las Islas Filipinas (Historical Events of the Philippine Islands) which was published in Mexico, 1609. He spent many days in the reading room of the British Museum poring over the pages of this book and laboriously reading the old histories of the Philippines (Zaide, 2008).  A group of sketches by Rizal  Rizal discovered some rare specimens which were named in his honor by the scientists. Among these were Draco rizali (a flying dragon), Apogonia rizali (a small beetle), and Rhacophorus rizali (a rare frog) -- [Zaide, 2008].  Rizal di...

Exiled to the frontier town of Dapitan in northwestern Mindanao on July 17, 1892, Jose Rizal used his time and skills productively to ease his solitude and improve the Dapitanons' lives.  For four years, Rizal busied himself with various pursuits and occupations -- as an educator, doctor, farmer, artist, architect and engineer, entrepreneur, scientist, and scholar. Rizal Shrine Dapitan reflects the diligent lifestyle led by Rizal through the rebuilt structures of his nipa hut residence, hospital, and dormitory, dam and waterworks.  The Rizaliana Museum exhibits Rizal's original clothing, blackboard and desk he used in his boys' school, and reproductions of sculptures, paintings, and select manuscripts.  The Shrine affirms the hero's patriotism  through his prolific industry and selfless service to his fellowmen.   Rizal lived in exile in far-away Dapitan, a remote town in Mindanao which was under the missionary jurisdiction of the Jesuits, from 1892 to 1896....

Rizal Park (Luneta) is not only a place of historical significance, or a shrine to view and appreciate, but also an avenue of commerce and entertainment.  Here are some of the things people can buy at very reasonable prices.  Click on the images for an enlarged view.   For more pictures, visit the Photo Gallery.

For people living a great distance from the country's capital, probably the only view that comes to mind at the mention of the Luneta (Rizal Park) is the monument.  This is probably because the monument is the single most photographed portion of the entire vicinity.  Here's a virtual tour of Rizal Park, the way the Manileños enjoy it.  Click on the images for an enlarged view.  Upon entering the park, a welcome message reads: Mabuhay!  Welcome to Rizal Park, the Philippines' premier National Park.  Named after our great national hero Dr. Jose P. Rizal, it is a showcase of our country's heritage and culture.  Rizal park is also the Kilometer Zero to the best of the Philippine Islands and destinations.  Rizal park is our park - your park.  Help us in maintaining the cleanliness and beauty of its surroundings and in promoting security, peace and order for a truly enjoyable stay.  Maraming salamat po! For what it's worth...