Notes on Republic Act No. 1425 (Rizal Law)

Introduction

Speaker: Marvin
Topic: Introduction to the Rizal Law (Republic Act No. 1425)
Date Signed: June 12, 1956 (Philippine Independence Day)
Author: Senator Claro M. Recto
Purpose: Mandates the teaching of Jose Rizal's life, works, and writings in all tertiary education courses.

The law requires both private and public schools to include Rizal's subject in their curricula.
Considered one of the most controversial bills in the Philippines due to opposition from various sectors, particularly the Catholic Church.

Rededication to Ideals: Inspire the youth to embrace the ideals of freedom and nationalism.
Tribute to Rizal: Honor Rizal for his contributions to shaping the Filipino character.
Inspiration for Patriotism: Foster a sense of patriotism through the study of Rizal's life and writings.

The law, initially introduced as Senate Bill 438, faced opposition from the Catholic Church, which argued that it would undermine their beliefs.
Opponents: Included senators and representatives who were against the compulsory reading of Rizal's novels due to perceived attacks on Catholic doctrine.

The Catholic Bishops' Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) argued that the novels, particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, contained passages that contradicted Catholic teachings.
Suggested alternative reading materials excluding the controversial novels.

Strong debates led to physical confrontations in Congress.
Amendments were proposed to address concerns while preserving the law's intent.
Final version mandated that schools include Rizal’s works in their curricula but allowed for exemptions under certain conditions.

Section 1: Inclusion of Rizal's life, works, and specifically Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo in all schools' curricula.
Section 2: Schools must maintain adequate copies of the original, unexpurgated editions of Rizal’s novels in their libraries.
Section 3: Mandates translation of Rizal's works into English, Tagalog, and other major Philippine dialects for widespread distribution.
Section 4: Clarifies that the law does not amend existing codes prohibiting the discussion of religious doctrines in public schools.
Section 5: Allocates ₱300,000 from the national treasury to implement the law.
Section 6: The law took effect upon approval on June 12, 1956.

The Rizal Law aims to instill a sense of national identity and patriotism among Filipino youth, emphasizing the significance of Rizal's ideals in their education and lives.
Students are encouraged to engage in the discussion and provide feedback on the lecture.