Premiered at 27th Fiesta in Premiered at 27th Fiesta in America, Celebrating America, Celebrating Filipino Heritage Filipino Heritage
by Arc Jeff L Perez
MANILA,
Philippines
The remastered version of the 1998 historical epic Jose Rizal was celebrated as it premiered at the 27th Fiesta in America, honoring the film’s legacy and its contribution to Filipino heritage
Rizal's Love for Josephine Immortalized: "Josephine Sleeping" Sculpture to be Auctioned.
Manila, Philippines - A piece of history and a testament to the enduring love of the national hero, Jose Rizal, is set to go under the hammer. "Josephine Sleeping," a delicate sculpture believed to be one of Rizal's final works, will be auctioned off at Leon Gallery's Kingly Treasures Auction 2024 on November 30th, with an estimated price tag of P7 million.
Restored 'Jose Rizal' Film Premiered at 27th Fiesta in America, Celebrating Filipino Heritage | p.3
by Chysie M. Salazar
Rizal's Love for Josephine Immortalized: "Josephine Sleeping" Sculpture to be Auctioned p 3
P I N I O N
Are Children Truly the Hope of the Nation?
by Chyra Mae P Torrejos
"La Verdad," meaning "The Truth," embodies the publication's dedication to uncovering and delivering honest, factual, and thought-provoking content
Symbolized by the ink pen a timeless emblem of knowledge and expression it highlights the mission to use the written word as a force for enlightenment and transformation, bridging the past and present in the pursuit of truth
The Editorial Board
Arc Jeff L. Perez
Editor-in-Chief
Chyra Mae P Torrejos
Associate Editor
Lian Petecio
Managing Editor
Chysie Salazar
News Writer
Charmaine Presbitero
News Writer
Angel Tanghal
News Writer
Joevie Pinote
Cartoonist
Alexa Salgados
Literary Writer
Dr José Rizal's enduring statement, “The youth are the hope of the nation,” reflects his unwavering faith in the capacity of young Filipinos to shape a brighter future. It is a powerful ideal one that envisions the youth as intelligent, courageous, and capable of leading the country toward progress and reform. However, more than a century since Rizal’s time, the question lingers: Is this hope still alive today?
The youth of the present possess boundless potential From their innovative ideas to their energy for activism, they have repeatedly shown their ability to drive change But potential alone is not enough Many young Filipinos remain shackled by the harsh realities of poverty, lack of access to quality education, and systemic inequality These barriers, which Rizal likely foresaw as challenges to national progress, continue to weigh down those who should be carrying the torch of hope
This duality is reflected in powerful metaphors: a young individual holding a torch, symbolizing hope, while being pulled back by invisible chains labeled “poverty” and “injustice ” Such imagery echoes the stark contradiction between Rizal’s vision and today’s reality
For many young people, their dreams and ambitions are overshadowed by the struggles of daily survival a glaring indication that society has yet to fully empower them as Rizal had imagined
The real issue is not the youth’s capacity to fulfill their role as the hope of the nation It is whether society is providing them with the tools, opportunities, and encouragement to do so. Quality education, equitable opportunities, and a supportive environment are not privileges they are necessities. Without these, Rizal’s vision risks becoming an empty aspiration, far removed from the realities of modern times.
As we honor Rizal’s legacy, we must also question our collective accountability Are we creating a nation where the youth can rise above adversity and live up to their potential? Or are we allowing systemic failures to stifle the very hope we proclaim?
The answer lies in action It is a call for all of us leaders, educators, and citizens alike to break the barriers that hold them back Only then can the youth truly become the hope of the nation, as Rizal envisioned
The restoration of Jose Rizal, directed by the late National Artist Marilou Diaz-Abaya, was first unveiled at the Manila Metropolitan Theater last August 7 during the 20th Cinemalaya Philippine Independent Film Festival. This screening also served as a tribute to Diaz-Abaya, whose artistic vision brought to life the story of the country's national hero, Dr Jose Rizal
Starring Cesar Montano as Rizal, the film chronicles the final days leading up to Rizal’s execution in 1896, interspersed with flashbacks to pivotal moments of his life as a writer, patriot, and revolutionary
The sculpture, depicting Rizal's beloved Josephine Bracken in a serene slumber, is a poignant reminder of their passionate and unconventional love story I is said to be a testament to Rizal's deep affection for Josephine, who defied societa norms to be with him. The sculpture, measuring 6 cm in height, 24 cm in length, and 7 cm in width, portrays Josephine lying on a Roman style couch, her hand
The film remains iconic, having swept 17 of its 18 nominations at the 1998 Metro Manila Film Festival a record that still stands today. Actor Cesar Montano and National Artist for Film Ricky Lee, who co-wrote the screenplay with Jun Robles Lana and Peter Ong Lim, reflected on the groundbreaking film and their work with Diaz-Abaya Lee revealed that Jose Rizal was part of the director’s envisioned “trilogy about men,” following her successful “trilogy about women” which included Brutal (1980), Moral (1982), and Karnal (1983) Montano urged the younger generation to watch
the remastered Jose Rizal, describing it as a “must-watch film” that celebrates patriotism, love for family, and the enduring legacy of Rizal. “Naiiyak pa rin ako. Sobrang ganda ng pagkakasulat. Napaka-genius ng pag-direct,” he said.
The restored Jose Rizal continues to inspire audiences as it heads to Fiesta in America, a premier Filipino-American event celebrating Filipino culture and heritage It stands as a testament to the enduring power of Filipino artistry, history, and national pride
N E W S
The Leon Gallery Kingly Treasures Auction 2024 promises to be a significant event for art enthusiasts and a rare opportunity to own pieces of Philippine history. The auction will be held at León Gallery Eurovilla 1 on November 30th at 2 p.m.
Rizal's Love for Josephine Immortalized: "Josephine Sleeping" Sculpture to be Auctioned continued from p.1
Forbidden Love
The life of José Rizal is a blend of love for country, brighter ideas, and more important personal attachments In this portfolio of relationships, there is one important link: his romance with Leonor Rivera His love affair with her was complicated by social restrictions and his cause for a nationalist revolution against foreign occupation and tyranny; this account chronicles their love relationship
The early moments of Rizal and Leonor's relationship are obscure, lost in the mist of history, and lack the earlier records.
By Chyra Mae P Torrejos
All such letters held tension between his personal desires and the demands of the commitment he had to one's country in his life. Geographical distance between them was shown through emotional distance between experiences they may have shared and their lives It was a long shadow of the weight he carried in his responsibility and maybe in the consequences his acts would produce over their relationship. There was also the society pressure at that time that did not help Maybe Leonor's family thought that Rizal's extreme political actions would cause problems for them, and they could have forced her to think otherwise with regards to their relationship
It was in 1882 that Rizal traveled to Europe, marking the end of his relationship with Leonor In all the tragedy that came to their love affair, there is still a space in the life of Rizal for his love for Leonor Rivera. Even though his writings are full of very delicate allusions, it speaks of deep feelings. He was really an inspiration but also in sorrow due to the remembrance of the relationship because it always reminded him of personal sacrifices he went through and their pursuit in his ideals The presence of Leonor in Rizal's life is the kind of thing that stands as poignant testimony to kinds of difficulties that work out of love and duty and sacrifices made under extraordinary circumstance.
Their account transcends the individual; it somehow gives a very small-scale representation of the larger historical context where Filipinos are surrounded by all the struggles with the Spanish. This is a much more extended chronological account, in an effort to better appreciate Rizal's relation to Leonor Rivera, in the face of the limitations imposed by historical sources but based on the available evidence so as to come up with an interesting narrative. It underscores the importance of their letters when these are available and probes the broader sociopolitical context against which their lives and relationship unfolded.
In February 1888, Dr José Rizal set foot in Japan, intending only a brief stop on his way to Europe Little did he know that this visit would become one of the most transformative chapters of his life. Rizal, already a keen observer and lover of culture, was captivated by the beauty of Japan’s landscapes, the intricacy of its architecture, and the grace of its people. What began as a fleeting visit turned into a profound experience that left a lasting impression on his heart and mind.
by Lian Petecio
During his stay, Rizal met Seiko Usui, or O-Sei-san, with whom he shared a tender romance. She became his cultural guide, introducing him to Japanese traditions, art, and society, enriching his understanding and appreciation of a new world. Their shared moments left a profound mark on Rizal, adding depth to his perspective and fueling his creativity
By April 1888, duty to his motherland forced him to bid
a painful farewell to Japan and O-Sei-san. This brief but meaningful chapter in Rizal’s life became a treasured memory, shaping his worldview and strengthening his resolve to fight for the freedom of his people. His sojourn in Japan was not just a stopover; it was a transformative journey of love, culture, and sacrifice
F E A T U R E
N T E R T A I N E M E N T
Ecan you Rizal-ved This?
by Arc Jeff L. Perez
Across
[1] The woman Rizal met and fell in love with during his stay in Japan
[4] Rizal’s pen name in La Solidaridad
[5] Rizal’s second novel, a sequel to Noli Me Tangere
[6] The profession Rizal pursued besides being a writer
[7] The leader of the Katipunan who honored Rizal as the inspiration for the revolution
[9] Rizal’s famous poem written during his last hou
[10] The title of Rizal’s first novel exposing the abu Spanish friars
Down
[2] The title of Rizal’s essay advocating for education reforms in the Philippines
[3] The execution site where Rizal was martyred
[8] Rizal’s birthplace in the Philippines
by Arc Jeff L. Perez
WHAT WOULD RIZAL’S SOCIAL MEDIA BE LIKE?
by Arc Jeff L Perez
If José Rizal were alive today, it's hard to imagine him without an Instagram account As a man of intellect, compassion, and social awareness, Rizal would likely have used the platform to share his revolutionary ideas, support his causes, and even post a few artistic photos for good measure Despite these principles, you’re still curious right? Well, I created a possible post of Rizal that has modern interaction with other heroes!
J.Rizz
by Arc Jeff L Perez
The youth is the hope of our future
#RevolutionaryThinking #YouthEmpowerment
#HopeForTheFuture FOLLOWING
2 1 M 1M
JoseFine_Lady
99 9 K
Andito sa aking kaloob-loban ang kalayaan hihi
Josefa_Escoda18
Ah, ganito pala ang tinatawag na ‘social media activism’? Kung ang post na ito ay magdadala ng kalayaan, go lang!
Not_Emilio_Aguinaldo
Baka ikaw na ang bagong ‘model’ ng Bayan ng Balintawak! Huwag mong gawing 'revolution' ang pagpapakita ng katawan!
Melchora Aquino de Ramos
Hubadero kang bata ka! Pag ikaw nagkasakit wag ka lalapit sa’kin.
E N T E R T A I N M E N T
L I T E R A R Y
Flowers of May
by Charmaine Presbitero
In the garden of his soul, a vibrant bloom, A symphony of colors, dispelling the gloom
He writes of love and beauty, of nature's gentle grace,
A reflection of his spirit, a smile upon his face
But beneath the surface, a longing for the right, For justice and equality, to shine a guiding light
He sees the pain and suffering, the chains that bind the land, And yearns for a future where freedom takes its stand
Like the flowers of May, his words bloom bright and bold, A testament to hope, a story yet untold
For in the beauty of nature, he finds strength and grace, A reminder that even in darkness, there's always a place for love and embrace
The Last Farewell
by Alexxa Salgados
A tear falls as the shadow of ‘Goodbye’ looms
One last hug, a deafening promise of a voice to come
The most devoted heart aims at high but despondently sinks, Still, due to the devotion to one’s land, this weight was tolerated
He turns away leaving his aspirations unfulfilled and his name immured in resplendent concrete,
Experiencing a new chapter of heroism, possessing a unique one of their own
Since looking straight in the eye of the storm, he never bent down so lived in opposition, Sacrificed for the nation, and that for the whole of him, a true martyr.
Even if a life gets truncated, a life-force would remain radiating,
Ever shining, ever purifying flame. Through the rustle of foliage, his voice would echo, Advocating liberty; an enduring inheritance.
TheUnfurlingFlag
by Angel Tanghal
There are hints of mutiny, a desire to see the light, One nation, in deep rootedness, conquests its own
Then out of the silence, a sound starts to boom, At a distance, a picture of a young man with flames in his eyes.
He talks of the thirst for liberty, European dreams, And of the country that is liberated, the people deserving justice. Then turning the ink into blood, he reproduces the oblivion, As a nation’s cause is rekindled, his own illuminates.
The banner of his fantasies played the large western wind, A Token of Faith, Duty Resolver.
For Rizal’s voice resembles,the unsung belief, Of people progressed, the tale yet to be gone through.
Sino ang O-Sei-san ng buhay ko? Filipino reformist, passionate writer, and lover of liberty seeking someone to share revolutionary dreams. Fluent in multiple languages preferably in the language of love.
Wanted: Novel Collaborator
Aspiring revolutionary writer seeks co-author for scathing critiques of colonial abuses
Must have thick skin, sharp wit, and an interest in reform. Bring your own quill
Lost: My heart, somewhere between Tokyo and Paris If found, please return it to José
HEART FOR RENT
Hopeless romantic with a revolutionary edge seeks muse to inspire poetry, novels, and possibly a rebellion Bilingual preferred, but not required
Wanted: Time Machine
Seeking a device to reunite with lost loves, rewrite Philippine history, and stop execution at Bagumbayan Reward: A free autographed book
Tutor for Hire
Learn Spanish, German, French, and even Japanese with an expert polyglot! Revolutionary insight included for free Serious patriots only!
FOR SALE: Antonio Luna’s Mustache Wax
Lookingfor Collaborators
Building a peaceful revolution? Let’s strategize over coffee in Madrid or Paris Bring ideas, ideals, and a willingness to inspire
For Sale: Untouched Quill
Selling the quill I never used for personal revenge. Ideal for writing about justice, love, and homeland freedom. Not for angry letters
ROOM FOR
RENT: Bahay Kubo in Pugad Lawin
Perfect for clandestine meetings and secret plans
ATTENTION:
Love Letters
Found
Collection of romantic and poetic letters addressed to multiple lovers Owner: José Rizal. If unclaimed, they’ll be published in a novel. Contact La Solidaridad office.
09
C L A S S I F I E D A D S
Equipped with a free flagpole for ceremonial tearing of cedulas Rent negotiable; contact Supremo for details
