Report in GEM 101

(The Life and Works of Rizal)

Chapter 9:
The Philippines: A Century Hence

Sub Topic/s:
I. Causes Of Miseries
II. Rizal Forecast
III. Sobre La Indolencia De Los Filipinos
(The Indolence of The Filipino)
IV. Letter To the Young Women
V. The Responsibilities of Filipino Mothers to Their Child
VI. Rizal Advice to Unmarried Men and Women

Submitted by:
Jessielyn C. Ortiz
Archie M. Magaling
Anthony Deocampo
Iryl Raquel
(BSEd Social Studies II)

Submitted to:
Mrs. Jhenina P. Oducado
(Course Facilitator)
 Rizal's Filipinas Dentro De Cien Años (translated as "The Philippines within One Hundred Years" or "The
Philippines A Century Hence") is an essay meant to forecast the future of the country within a hundred years.
This essay, published in La Solidaridad of Madrid, reflected Rizal's sentiments about the glorious past of the
Philippines, the deterioration of the Philippine economy, and exposed the foundations of the native Filipinos
sufferings under the cruel the essay, warned Spain as regards the catastrophic end of its domination reminder
that it was time that Spain realizes that the circumstances that contributed to the French Revolution could have
a powerful effect for her on the Philippine islands.
 Part of the purpose in writing the essay was to promote a sense of nationalism among the Filipinos
o to awaken their minds and hearts so they would fight for their rights.

CAUSES OF MISERIES

The essay started by analyzing the various causes of the desolations suffered by the Filipino people (as
enumerated in The Philippines a Century Hence: Summary and Analysis, n.d.):

1. Spain's implementation of her military laws.

Because of such policies, the Philippine population decreased significantly. Poverty became more
widespread, and farmlands were left to wither. The family as a unit of society was neglected, and overall,
every aspect of the life of the Filipino was retarded.

2. Deterioration and disappearance of Filipino Indigenous culture.

When Spain came with the sword and the cross, It began the gradual destruction of the native
Philippine culture.
Because of this, the Filipinos started losing confidence in their past and their heritage, became doubtful of
their present lifestyle, and eventually lost hope in the future and the preservation of their race. The natives
began forgetting who they were their valued beliefs, religion, songs, poetry, and other forms of customs and
traditions.

3. Passivity and submissiveness to the Spanish colonizers.

One of the most powerful forces that influenced a culture of silence among the natives were the
Spanish friars. Because of the use of force and intimidation unfairly using God's name, the Filipinos learned
to submit to the will of the foreigners. One question that Rizal fasters in this essay is whether or not Spain can
Indeed inhibit the growth and development of the Philippines. Despite the abuses, corruption, and
deterioration brought by the colonizers, Rizal was optimistic that there will still be progress for the
motherland eventually. Rizal concluded therefore, that Spain, had no means to stop the progress of the
country. What needs to be done is to change her colonial policies so that they would suit the Philippine society
and to the rising nationalism of the people.
Prepared by: Jessielyn C. Ortiz

RIZAL FORECAST

 What will happen to the Philippines in the next century? Will they continue to be under Spanish rule or
will they gain their independence? The Filipinos have been loyal to Spain for 300 years, but they are
starting to realize that they are being exploited.
 If this continues, there may be a revolution in the future. The Filipinos desire representation in the
Spanish government and freedom of expression to address abuses. Rizal, a Filipino nationalist,
believed in peacefully negotiating for freedom from Spain, envisioning a successful revolution. After
his death, the Philippines did gain independence in 1898, showing that Rizal's dreams were not in
vain. The future of the Philippines remains uncertain, but there is hope for freedom and self-
governance.
  The essay "The Philippines a Century Hence" by Rizal explores the importance of values, mindsets,
and beliefs in shaping national identity.
 It serves as a reminder of Filipino resilience and perseverance throughout years of colonization, where
efforts to keep the people uneducated and impoverished failed. Rizal's predictions of nationalism
thriving came true, as the country eventually gained independence after centuries of Spanish and
American rule.
 The challenges that confront Filipinos include a lack of true independence due to economic control by
an elite oligarchy and a widening gap between the rich and the poor. There are also failures in
instilling national discipline and love of country by the family, educational system, and political
leaders.
 Flaws in the national character, such as a lack of competitiveness and a mindset of mediocrity, hinder
the country's progress. To address these challenges, public awareness, courage, and a strong sense of
national identity are needed.
 It is important to connect citizens with their communities and utilize communication technologies to
foster dialogue and understanding. The delays in peace talks and growing income gaps are signs of a
lack of resoluteness and unity in facing social issues. As a Filipino youth, one can contribute to the
country by taking responsibility and actively participating in creating positive change.
 This includes promoting unity, supporting marginalized communities, and using communication
technologies for constructive purposes. By working together, Filipinos can help build a fairer and
more compassionate society.

Prepared by: Archie Magaling

SOBRE LA INDOLENCIA DE LOS FILIPINOS (The Indolence of the Filipino)

 Other important writings by Rizal include his essay on The Indolence of the Filipinos, which was published in
five parts in La Solidaridad from July to September 1890. In this essay, Rizal defended Filipinos against
accusations of laziness by highlighting the negative impact of Spanish colonization on the Filipino work ethic.
 He pointed out that before Spanish rule, Filipinos were hardworking and industrious, but the arrival of the
Spaniards led to a decline in economic activities. Rizal identified several factors that contributed to the
perceived indolence of Filipinos during the Spanish regime.
 These included the establishment of the Galleon Trade, forced labor, lack of protection against foreign
invaders, inadequate education, lazy Spanish rulers, widespread gambling, and a corrupt religious system
perpetuated by the friars. The essay argued that these factors discouraged Filipinos from engaging in
productive activities such as agriculture, industry, and commerce, leading to a general sense of hopelessness
and resignation among the population.
 Rizal critiqued the Spanish colonial system for perpetuating these conditions and perpetuating a cycle of
poverty and dependence among the Filipino people. Overall, Rizal's essay on The Indolence of the Filipinos
shed light on the historical and cultural factors that shaped Filipino society during the Spanish colonial period.
 It remains a timeless work that continues to inspire reflection on the challenges and opportunities facing the
Filipino people.
 Jose Rizal discusses the factors that contribute to the indolence of Filipinos in his work. He points out that
high taxes, lack of educational opportunities, and exploitation by foreign rulers all play a role in the lack of
motivation among the people. Rizal believes that the hot tropical climate also affects the work ethic of
Filipinos, as the harsh conditions make it difficult for them to engage in strenuous labor.
 Additionally, feelings of inferiority, reliance on miracles, lack of ambition, and a lack of national sentiment
are identified as internal factors that contribute to the problem. Rizal emphasizes the importance of education
and liberty as solutions to overcoming indolence and achieving progress in the Philippines.
 He argues that providing better educational opportunities, promoting a sense of national pride, and fostering a
spirit of ambition and perseverance are key to unlocking the potential of the Filipino people. Ultimately, Rizal
 believes that addressing these issues will help the country move towards a brighter future and overcome the
obstacles that have hindered its development.
Prepared by: Anthony Deocampo
LETTER TO THE YOUNG WOMEN

 Jose Rizal's essay, "To the Young Women of Malolos," influenced Filipino women, emphasizing their rights
and urging them to study Spanish under Teodor Sandiko, after petitioning Governor-General Weyler in 1888.

THE RESPONSIBILITIES OF FILIPINO MOTHERS TO THEIR CHILD

 Rizal composed this letter on February 22, 1889 when he was in London, in response to the request of del
Pilar. We know for a fact that in the past, young women were uneducated because of the principle that they
would soon be wives and their primary career is to take care of the home and their children. In this letter,
Rizal yearns that women should be granted the same opportunities given to men in terms of education.
The salient points contained in this letter are as follows:
1. The rejection of the spiritual authority of the friars - not all of the priests in the country that time embodied
the true spirit of Christ and His Church. Most of them were corrupted by worldly desires and used worldly
methods to effect change and force discipline among the people.
2. The defense of private judgment.
3. Qualities Filipino mothers need to possess as evidenced by this portion of his letter, Rizal is greatly
concerned of the welfare of the Filipino children and the homes they grow up in.
4. Duties and responsibilities of Filipino mothers to their children
5. Duties and responsibilities of a wife to her husband - Rizal states in this portion of his letter how Filipino
women ought to be as wives, in order to preserve the identity of the race.
6. Counsel to young women on their choice of a lifetime partner.

RIZAL ADVICE TO UNMARRIED MEN AND WOMEN

 Jose Rizal points out to unmarried women that they should not be easily taken by appearances and looks,
because these can be very deceiving. Instead, they should take heed of men's firmness of character and lofty
ideas. Rizal further adds that there are three things that a young woman must look for a man she intends to be
her husband:
1. A noble and honored name
2. A manly heart
3. A high spirit incapable of being satisfied with engendering slaves.

SUMMARY
In summary, Rizal's letter "To the Young Women of Malolos, centers around five major points (Zaide &Zaide, 1999):
1. Filipino mothers should teach their children love of God, country and fellowmen.
2. Filipino mothers should be glad and honored, like Spartan mothers, to offer their sons in defense
of their country.
3. Filipino women should know how to protect their dignity and honor.
4. Filipino women should educate themselves aside from retaining their good racial values.
5. Faith is not merely reciting prayers and wearing religious pictures. It is living the real Christian way with
good morals and manners.
Prepared by: Iryl Raquel

REFERENCES:
o https://www.slideshare.net/slideshow/the-philippines-a-century-hence-pptx/15168301
o https://www.gutenberg.org/files/35899/35899-h/35899-h.htm