Lesson 6: Rizal's Reform Efforts, Martyrdom, and Legacy

In July 1892, Rizal founded the La Liga Filipina in Manila. Its purpose was to unite Filipinos "for mutual protection" and cooperate for reform. La Liga's goals were peaceful: education for the masses, opportunities for Filipinos in government, and mutual support (like a friendly society). Members included prominent reformists.

However, Spanish authorities soon intervened. Within days, Rizal was arrested (for sedition) and sent to Dapitan in exile. La Liga was dissolved, but it splintered into more radical and more moderate groups: one faction became the Cuerpo de Compromisarios supporting the La Solidaridad movement in Spain, while another group of radicals formed the Katipunan (the underground revolutionary society led by Bonifacio). In this way, Rizal's idea of organizing Filipinos planted seeds for both reform efforts and, indirectly, revolution.

Rizal spent four years in Dapitan, Mindanao (1892–1896) under exile. He was 31 to 35 years old. Even in exile, Rizal remained productive and helpful to the community. He built a school and taught many pupils, including writing a primer and teaching agriculture. He established a hospital and helped pay for patient care with his own funds. Rizal also created a water system and improved farming methods for locals.

During this time, Rizal continued writing and studying languages. He kept in touch with the outside world through letters to his family and friends (like Blumentritt). His calm, industrious life in Dapitan showed his commitment to service and learning. At the same time, Rizal followed events in Manila. He was saddened to see mounting tensions leading to revolution.