Born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Laguna, Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonzo Realonda (try fitting that on a cake) is basically the most famous Filipino ever, unless you’re counting Pacquiao, which is a different discussion altogether. Anyway, Rizal was a writer, a doctor, a reformist, and, most importantly, the guy Spain definitely did not want writing essays.
Why is his birthday still getting this much attention? Well, because Rizal is considered the national hero of the Philippines. Not because he led armies or ran around with a bolo, but because he used his brain, his pen, and a pair of novels that managed to irritate a colonial government so badly they executed him for it. That takes skill.
The day is marked with ceremonies, usually including a flag-raising, someone in uniform laying a wreath at a statue, and local officials giving speeches about patriotism and sacrifice. Schools sometimes do tribute programs. Some places hold contests or essay writing events. In most government calendars, it’s more observance than celebration, so no, it’s not a national holiday you can use to extend your weekend.
What’s kind of wild is how consistent Rizal is. He appears on coins, in textbooks, on monuments, and required reading lists. Whether you read Noli Me Tangere properly or just skimmed the summary before an exam, his impact is unavoidable.
And to be clear, yes, Rizal Day is on December 30, which marks his execution. June 19 is the birthday. If you’re one of the many who mix the two up, consider this your quick fix.
[Photo by Kimy Moto]
