“Difficulties are not a justification for quitting, but rather a source of motivation to persevere.” This belief, I believe, was foremost in the thoughts of Dr. Jose P. Rizal during his time in Dapitan. Despite the Spanish authorities’ attempts to undermine his existence by means of intimidation, Rizal remained resolute in his commitment to serving our nation’s cause. For a duration spanning four years, from 1892 to 1896, Rizal endured exile in the distant town of Dapitan in Mindanao—a place subject to the Jesuits’ ecclesiastical administration.
During this four-year interval in his life, which was characterized by a lack of excitement, he managed to accomplish a great deal. He dedicated himself to practicing medicine and engaging in scientific studies. He also continued his artistic and literary works, furthering his knowledge of languages in the process. Additionally, he established a school for boys and worked on various community development projects. In addition, he invented a wooden machine for making bricks and was involved in farming and commerce. Unfortunately, on July 17, 1892, his exile began in Dapitan, where he experienced suffering, harassment, and threats to his life from the Spaniards.
This period of exile in Dapitan further fueled his nationalism and love for his family, as well as for the people of Dapitan, the place where he found happiness. While in Dapitan, Rizal engaged in a lengthy and intellectual debate with Father Pastells regarding religion. Through this discourse, Rizal’s anti-Catholic sentiments, developed in Europe, and his resentment towards the mistreatment he faced from corrupt friars became evident. It is comprehensible why he harbored bitterness towards these friars who misused their religious authority to commit various abuses.
In Paris on January 20, 1890, Rizal expressed his desire to criticize the friars who used religion both as protection and aggression. He believed that their false and superstitious practices allowed them to conceal themselves as the enemy. Additionally, Rizal showed great sincerity by providing medical aid and free medication to those in need.
While in Dapitan, Rizal performed surgery on his mother’s right eye. He also embraced various roles such as a farmer, businessman, scientist, and inventor, gaining popularity in the area. During his time in Dapitan, his life was threatened by Florencio Namanan, prompting Rizal to showcase his martial arts skills. It was in Dapitan where he crossed paths with Josephine Bracken, whom he met while attempting to cure her blind father. Their relationship blossomed, and they fell in love.
