RIZAL COURSEManalili, Niko T. September 2, 2009BSN004 Prof. Wilson S. Chua

Jose Rizal: an International Man of Peace

Jose Rizal is an epitome of peace and justice. His Noli and El fili are forms of protest that has launched revolution, but indeed, his act is undeniably peaceful. Our national hero should be a model, an ideal of Filipino nationalism. But why is it that people lacks awareness and concern for its nation. The war in Mindanao, crimes, terrorism and political issues are some of events that threaten our country. However, are these genuine dilemmas or just a result of lack of nationalism and unity among Filipinos?

In this article, Jose Rizal believed that the prime mover of peace is right education, right values, sacrifice and promotion of national consciousness. Education is now a privileged and not a right. It has been problematic for the past decades, not enough classrooms and supplies. I can still remember in my high school days when we have visited public schools in our municipality. I suddenly felt lucky because I am sent by my parents to a good school. These kids were sweating hard, trying to listen to their teacher who has difficulty in handling them. They were 56 in class and make the room congested. Books are worn out and shared by multiple students. For me it was tragic to see these students not able to learn to their full extent. It was harsh scene that is experience most likely by people in more rural areas. Even though, education is free, still families aren't able to send their child on schools because they struggle for their day to day allowances because of lack of financial resources.

Everything starts at home, and our school is our second home. It is we learn the values and conduct in becoming good citizens. It is a starting point in building our national consciousness. Right education is equal to peace. A bright student with morality will move the nation to its boundaries because as Dr. Jose Rizal has stated “Kabataan ang Pag-asa ng Bayan.” Right education plus right behavior and attitude will make person qualified for a job and a good life, thus making him lesser at risk in doing acts against the law. That’s why we must act in giving better education for the less fortunate. When I become a professional, I will continue the legacy Dr. Jose Rizal in promotion of peace through my service and loyalty to the nation.

Throughout the years I can’t forget the song “Let there be peace on earth.” This song calls for a change, to make peace, a peace that must begin in me. Peace starts from within. We can never be advocates if there are conflicts within ourselves. We must know our self awareness so we can properly deal with others struggling for their consciousness. We can be peacemakers as we save people in the depths of immorality. Peace can never be achieved alone. Each individual must take part in the upbringing of our nation. The islands of Luzon, Visayas and Mindanao must unite as one in active participation of bringing peace to our self, environment, society and the whole nation.