"Revisitamos Dapitan 1892" (Revisiting Dapitan in 1892) celebrated the life and legacy of Philippine National Hero, Dr. Jose Rizal. It was exactly 130 years ago that Dr. Rizal first set foot on a gloomy town in Mindanao. The reenactment performed by the actors of Teyatro Dasuliman was held last July 17, 2022 at 7:00 PM at the Punto de Disembarco which is the actual place of his first landing in Dapitan.
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| Reenactment of the Arrival of Dr. Jose Rizal in Dapitan (Photo courtesy Dapitan City Information Division) |
Aboard the steamer Cebu and under heavy guard, Dr. Jose Rizal left Manila, sailing to Mindoro and Panay, until he reached Dapitan at seven o'clock in the evening of June 17. From that day until July 31, 1896, Dapitan became the bare witness to one of the most fruitful periods in Rizal's life. His stay in the province was more than “he” living in exile – it was the period when Rizal had been more focused on serving the people and the society through his civic works, medical practices, land development and promotion of education.
The 4-year exile of Rizal in Dapitan created numerous
opportunities for the city. For instance, Rizal's life in Dapitan led to the
founding of a school, which eventually became a university. Additionally, his
work as a doctor helped improve the health of Dapitanons. Finally, his legacy
continues to inspire others to fight for freedom and justice.
The people of Dapitan and Filipinos in general should
continue to uphold the legacy of Rizal's life by revisiting his works and
values. Rizal's life was one dedicated to the service of others, and this is
something that should be celebrated. His values of freedom, justice, and
equality are ones that we should all aspire to uphold. By revisiting Rizal's
life and works, we can continue to learn from his example and keep his legacy
alive.