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The First Filipino: The Award-Winning Biography of Jose Rizal
Jose Rizal is the national hero of The Philippines. The First Filipino is the award-winning biography. It was awarded the first prize in the Rizal Centennial biography competition. The author is Ambassador Leon Ma. Guerrero, who also translated the widely-acclaimed translations of Rizal's novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo.Painstakingly researched and referenced, this is a standard text in Rizal studies and has been continuously in print since its first publication in 1962.
555 pages, Kindle Edition
First published January 1, 1961
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About the author
León María Guerrero
15 books32 followersLeón María Ignacio Agapito Guerrero y Francisco better known simply as Leon Ma. Guerrero III, was a Filipino diplomat and novelist, and was one of the foremost Filipino nationalists of his era. A partner in the law practice of senator Claro M. Recto, he became Undersecretary of Foreign Affairs during the Magsaysay administration. His then controversial advocacy of 'Asia for the Asians' and espousal of a realistic re-examination of relations with the United States are now commonly accepted as being ahead of their time.
"Leoni," as his family called him, was born on March 24, 1915 in Ermita, Manila to one of the nation's most prominent families. His father was the famed Dr. Alfredo Leon Maria Guerrero, and his mother was Filomena Francisco, the first Filipino woman pharmacist.
His paternal grandfather, for whom he was named, was Leon María Guerrero, the distinguished botanist, Malolos Congress delegate, and member of the first Philippine Assembly. His sister, Carmen Guerrero Nakpil would also be grow up to be a journalist and, later one of the pre-eminent figures of Philippine letters.
On retirement he was the country's senior career diplomat having served as Ambassador in London, Madrid, New Delhi, Mexico City and Belgrade. On June 19, 1982, only a fewdays before he died, he received the, Gawad Mabini, the highest award in the Philippine Foreign Service.
He held the rank of Knight Grand Cross of the Knights of Rizal. Among his many works are internationally acclaimed translations of José Rizal's Noli Me Tangere and El filibusterismo. He also wrote the biography of Rizal: The First Filipino.
His works are Twilight in Tokyo, Passion and Death of the USAFFE, Report from Europe, Alternatives for Asians,
An Asian on Asia, The First Filipino (Awarded first prize in the Rizal Biography Contest under the auspices of the José Rizal National Centennial Commission), El Si y El No. (Winner of the Premio Zobel), Las Dos Muertes de General Aguinaldo, Two Friars in Exodus (A Contribution to Studies in Philippine Church History), The Philippine Revolution by Apolinario Mabini, Today Began Yesterday, We Filipinos (Posthumous anthology of his writings), translations of: Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal and El Filibusterismo by José Rizal.
"Leoni," as his family called him, was born on March 24, 1915 in Ermita, Manila to one of the nation's most prominent families. His father was the famed Dr. Alfredo Leon Maria Guerrero, and his mother was Filomena Francisco, the first Filipino woman pharmacist.
His paternal grandfather, for whom he was named, was Leon María Guerrero, the distinguished botanist, Malolos Congress delegate, and member of the first Philippine Assembly. His sister, Carmen Guerrero Nakpil would also be grow up to be a journalist and, later one of the pre-eminent figures of Philippine letters.
On retirement he was the country's senior career diplomat having served as Ambassador in London, Madrid, New Delhi, Mexico City and Belgrade. On June 19, 1982, only a fewdays before he died, he received the, Gawad Mabini, the highest award in the Philippine Foreign Service.
He held the rank of Knight Grand Cross of the Knights of Rizal. Among his many works are internationally acclaimed translations of José Rizal's Noli Me Tangere and El filibusterismo. He also wrote the biography of Rizal: The First Filipino.
His works are Twilight in Tokyo, Passion and Death of the USAFFE, Report from Europe, Alternatives for Asians,
An Asian on Asia, The First Filipino (Awarded first prize in the Rizal Biography Contest under the auspices of the José Rizal National Centennial Commission), El Si y El No. (Winner of the Premio Zobel), Las Dos Muertes de General Aguinaldo, Two Friars in Exodus (A Contribution to Studies in Philippine Church History), The Philippine Revolution by Apolinario Mabini, Today Began Yesterday, We Filipinos (Posthumous anthology of his writings), translations of: Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal and El Filibusterismo by José Rizal.
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November 13, 2009i want to read this book the first filipino
November 16, 2016
Rizal significantly shaped and continues to shape Philippine society as we know it. This book will not only give you an idea of who Rizal really is, but also will help you understand why Philippine society is the way it is. Through the reading of this book, one can conclude that to be Filipino is to be regionalistic. That the only thing that binds us together is the similarities we assimilated from our colonizers; which during Rizal's time was Christianity and Hispanization. It was not Tagalog that birthed he first Filipino community, but Spanish. This book is for anyone interested in studying the history of the Filipino identity, and for those who are interested in the process of how a national identity comes into existence.
Content is very comprehensive, but I found the book to be very draggy at times.
Content is very comprehensive, but I found the book to be very draggy at times.
February 25, 2018
I'm privileged to be a part of a nation who has a man like Jose Rizal. Though imperfect, he has lifted the spirits of the Filipinos in his generation and it is just apt to call him the First Filipino. Reading this autobiography of his, I am moved with respect and admiration for this man's love and dreams for the Filipino as a people and as a nation. This is a must-read for the Filipino who would like to understand their roots & hence, themselves better. Through this masterpiece, I have appreciated and valued more the depth of the gift of freedom we have now.
February 25, 2017
I read this book for a class I'm teaching on the historical imagination of the Philippine Revolution. For contrast, I assigned this text together with John Nery's Rizal biography, Revolutionary Spirit.
Guerrero's version is more extensive and includes longer quotes from Rizal's writings than Nery's. Guerrero is also less careful about footnoting than Nery, probably because academic standards in the 1960s were less stringent than in 2011, when Nery's bio was published. Given Guerrero's context, we shouldn't be too harsh on him for his sloppy referencing.
What's interesting is, despite this difference in method, Guerrero's and Nery's portrayals of Rizal converge more than diverge. I say this because both use these three images to interpret Rizal:
1. Rizal's martyrdom mirrors Christ's crucifixion. Nery introduces Rizal as a martyr who embraced his death willingly, rather than passively. Guerrero counts Rizal as among those "we reserve our highest homage and deepest love" for because he's a "Christ-like victim whose mission is to consummate by the tragic 'failure' the redemption of our nation" (p. 531).
2. Rizal as an international scholar. Both biographers paint him as someone whose talent and intellect are feared and admired not only by Filipinos, but also Europeans and intellectuals in neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
3. Rizal as courageous (perhaps reckless) patriot and the Father of the nation. Both highlight Rizal's decision to leave Europe to return to the Philippines, even if doing so meant risking his life. They also both recognize in Rizal's writings and thought the emergence of a Philippine nation independent from Spain, and how these texts make him vulnerable to misinterpretations by both the Spanish colonial regime and Filipino revolutionaries of the late nineteenth century.
Guerrero's difference though is that he uses Rizal's writings as a springboard to imagine how Rizal FELT about the events of his life and milieu. This emotional element, albeit clearly literary and not factual, makes his portrayal livelier and more relatable than Nery's investigative treatment. Nevertheless, in some parts of Guerrero's text, the narrative turns messy, and the quotes from Rizal's writings too lengthy. But at the end of each chapter, he manages to restore momentum and artfully close with an insightful and elegant commentary.
Even if tedious to read through, the messy narrative and lengthy quotations are not completely futile. They help show the complexity of Rizal's personality, as well as of the times he lived in. This complexity challenges the static, simplistic view of Rizal and the Spanish colonial period that we Filipinos have.
Guerrero's version is more extensive and includes longer quotes from Rizal's writings than Nery's. Guerrero is also less careful about footnoting than Nery, probably because academic standards in the 1960s were less stringent than in 2011, when Nery's bio was published. Given Guerrero's context, we shouldn't be too harsh on him for his sloppy referencing.
What's interesting is, despite this difference in method, Guerrero's and Nery's portrayals of Rizal converge more than diverge. I say this because both use these three images to interpret Rizal:
1. Rizal's martyrdom mirrors Christ's crucifixion. Nery introduces Rizal as a martyr who embraced his death willingly, rather than passively. Guerrero counts Rizal as among those "we reserve our highest homage and deepest love" for because he's a "Christ-like victim whose mission is to consummate by the tragic 'failure' the redemption of our nation" (p. 531).
2. Rizal as an international scholar. Both biographers paint him as someone whose talent and intellect are feared and admired not only by Filipinos, but also Europeans and intellectuals in neighboring Southeast Asian countries.
3. Rizal as courageous (perhaps reckless) patriot and the Father of the nation. Both highlight Rizal's decision to leave Europe to return to the Philippines, even if doing so meant risking his life. They also both recognize in Rizal's writings and thought the emergence of a Philippine nation independent from Spain, and how these texts make him vulnerable to misinterpretations by both the Spanish colonial regime and Filipino revolutionaries of the late nineteenth century.
Guerrero's difference though is that he uses Rizal's writings as a springboard to imagine how Rizal FELT about the events of his life and milieu. This emotional element, albeit clearly literary and not factual, makes his portrayal livelier and more relatable than Nery's investigative treatment. Nevertheless, in some parts of Guerrero's text, the narrative turns messy, and the quotes from Rizal's writings too lengthy. But at the end of each chapter, he manages to restore momentum and artfully close with an insightful and elegant commentary.
Even if tedious to read through, the messy narrative and lengthy quotations are not completely futile. They help show the complexity of Rizal's personality, as well as of the times he lived in. This complexity challenges the static, simplistic view of Rizal and the Spanish colonial period that we Filipinos have.
September 6, 2025
Exceptional research and even-handed insight went into the accomplishment of this book. But the printing (or is it the reprinting?) has been atrocious, I had to exchange my original purchase with 12 missing pages on the first chapter for one with 2 missing pages on the last chapter!
Still, it made a Rizalista out of this unpatriotic, passive history student who yet has to read the Noli and the Fili. And despite the complex research, this book is just skimming the tip of the historical iceberg. The First Filipino is a book for curious, but lukewarm Filipinos like me. Its invaluable rewards are reserved for the boundless, largely tangential questions the reader amasses by the chapter. And while some, if not most questions may find satisfactory answers in further, extensive reading, what about those truly wonderful, imaginative questions that start with "what if..."?
* The ending is an intriguing recipe for a play. A youngish Jesuit priest spends the last of Dr Rizal’s 24 hours with him in his cell, before finally getting what he needs: Rizal’s confessions, his plea for forgiveness and return to the church, and his renouncement of Masonry (to this day, strongly disputed). Imagine the amazing conversations that took place? I wish somebody could write a play based on those last 24 hours. Something along the lines of Dostoevsky's chapter on The Grand Inquisitor in The Brothers Karamazov. Of course, whoever writes this play should probably collaborate with a learned man of the cloth. And a Jesuit, of course.
Still, it made a Rizalista out of this unpatriotic, passive history student who yet has to read the Noli and the Fili. And despite the complex research, this book is just skimming the tip of the historical iceberg. The First Filipino is a book for curious, but lukewarm Filipinos like me. Its invaluable rewards are reserved for the boundless, largely tangential questions the reader amasses by the chapter. And while some, if not most questions may find satisfactory answers in further, extensive reading, what about those truly wonderful, imaginative questions that start with "what if..."?
* The ending is an intriguing recipe for a play. A youngish Jesuit priest spends the last of Dr Rizal’s 24 hours with him in his cell, before finally getting what he needs: Rizal’s confessions, his plea for forgiveness and return to the church, and his renouncement of Masonry (to this day, strongly disputed). Imagine the amazing conversations that took place? I wish somebody could write a play based on those last 24 hours. Something along the lines of Dostoevsky's chapter on The Grand Inquisitor in The Brothers Karamazov. Of course, whoever writes this play should probably collaborate with a learned man of the cloth. And a Jesuit, of course.
January 20, 2025
must read for an american like me who never got to learn about philippine history & culture during spanish colonization. interesting how it takes an execution for the true influence of a hero to inspire a revolution & reformation to finally kick in
May 14, 2013
For all the years, studies and romanticisms of Rizal, he has somewhat remained, an enigma. This is not surprising.
The vast number of scholars that have attempted a great many times to deconstruct and understand Rizal on his writings have fallibly tainted Rizal’s political ideologies and perspectives in doing so. Some even failed to see that what they have deconstructed was not Rizal, but an image hewn from themselves.
Some of this were, Agoncillo who regarded Rizal as a “revolutionary reformist” or “reformist revolutionary” while Constantino declared Rizal’s genuine agenda were the Hispanization of the Indio and the assimilation of the Philippines to Spain, which proved little to clear the matter but in essence has founded the contradiction that has bedeviled nationalist historians. Romeo Cruz however puts it differently by saying that Rizal’s purported assimilation is the union of sectionalism – loyalty entrenched in the Filipino people and nationalism – this he refers to the loyalty directed to Spain. The belief that these sentiments are subversive and seditious to the national cause is wrong, for nationalism does not favor class and the nature by which it is defined.
Floro F. Quibuyen maintains that this view is inherently flawed on the aspect that most of our scholars’ personal standpoint is levied upon the Enlightenment terms when Rizal is studied. Viewing the matter in the Enlightenment terms merits a view in terms of the liberal concept of the nations–state. The state exercises power in making and enforcing laws in behalf of the people it stands for. But Rizal’s vision went beyond the liberal concepts conceived by the Enlightenment period.
Does this rudimental predicament afflict Leon Maria Guerrero's work?
In the pursuit of veraciousness more than brevity, I quote and support the introduction in saying that:
"... it presents him in the guise of the original and singular philosopher he is, as well as the great stylist and thinker of clarity, precision, and profundity he also is."
An achievement in itself.
The question looms however, and whether one accepts the answer entirely depends on no one else but the reader as much as the material. Is Rizal worthy to be the first Filipino? Is it fitting?
As any historical work, the historical narrative is to be subjected upon critical objective examination. Points of contention undeniably exist, which are realistically inevitable, in the historicization. This subjective scholar preference I'm pointing exists for example on Leon Guerrero's choice with which to start his discussion (Gomburza), which also implicitly carries his nationalistic orientation (that is much to be desired).
Still, as it stands, a great scholarly work.
The vast number of scholars that have attempted a great many times to deconstruct and understand Rizal on his writings have fallibly tainted Rizal’s political ideologies and perspectives in doing so. Some even failed to see that what they have deconstructed was not Rizal, but an image hewn from themselves.
Some of this were, Agoncillo who regarded Rizal as a “revolutionary reformist” or “reformist revolutionary” while Constantino declared Rizal’s genuine agenda were the Hispanization of the Indio and the assimilation of the Philippines to Spain, which proved little to clear the matter but in essence has founded the contradiction that has bedeviled nationalist historians. Romeo Cruz however puts it differently by saying that Rizal’s purported assimilation is the union of sectionalism – loyalty entrenched in the Filipino people and nationalism – this he refers to the loyalty directed to Spain. The belief that these sentiments are subversive and seditious to the national cause is wrong, for nationalism does not favor class and the nature by which it is defined.
Floro F. Quibuyen maintains that this view is inherently flawed on the aspect that most of our scholars’ personal standpoint is levied upon the Enlightenment terms when Rizal is studied. Viewing the matter in the Enlightenment terms merits a view in terms of the liberal concept of the nations–state. The state exercises power in making and enforcing laws in behalf of the people it stands for. But Rizal’s vision went beyond the liberal concepts conceived by the Enlightenment period.
Does this rudimental predicament afflict Leon Maria Guerrero's work?
In the pursuit of veraciousness more than brevity, I quote and support the introduction in saying that:
"... it presents him in the guise of the original and singular philosopher he is, as well as the great stylist and thinker of clarity, precision, and profundity he also is."
An achievement in itself.
The question looms however, and whether one accepts the answer entirely depends on no one else but the reader as much as the material. Is Rizal worthy to be the first Filipino? Is it fitting?
As any historical work, the historical narrative is to be subjected upon critical objective examination. Points of contention undeniably exist, which are realistically inevitable, in the historicization. This subjective scholar preference I'm pointing exists for example on Leon Guerrero's choice with which to start his discussion (Gomburza), which also implicitly carries his nationalistic orientation (that is much to be desired).
Still, as it stands, a great scholarly work.
June 10, 2023
Throughout my education which continues today, Rizal's name has echoed rather mercilessly. Not long ago, I read one of the poems that the young Rizal wrote during his years of instruction, the title of which escapes me now. Truth be told: I shelved this book last year because the government had decreed that all Filipino college students should take a course in Rizal. In my case, the facilitator at the beginning of the semester informed us that Guerrero's "The First Filipino" should be used as the main reference. It turned out that we would have a different facilitator who did not choose to use the aforementioned work for the course. But I already purchased the book (for Kindle, of course), and it took more than a year until I finally got around to reading it.
I looked for a brief description of the author prior to reading. Frankly, I did not know who we was. I had the idea that this book was published within the past decade or two. I would be immediately sorry* to know that I didn't.
This isn't the first biography that I have read. This must be the second after reading another Filipino's biography, one of a later but not dissimilar time. Much like the subjects of this category of literature, I surmise that biographies cannot really be compared side-by-side. Or the case is, of course, that I am unqualified to make such a criticism, so I will not even approach the attempt.
Guerrero told me the story of Rizal's life as if the two were the best of friends. The former managed to put before me the shoes of the latter's best friend from across oceans Blumentritt, his family whom he loved, cherished, and endeared so much, the diverse temperaments of his closest colleagues, his 'many loves' but notably Josephine Bracken, and even some of his nastiest opponents and antagonisers. But I have had the privilege of listening to Guerrero's retelling of Rizal's story, already wearing the shoes of a Filipino.
Some concessions. My reading was, admittedly, as intimate as it could be and highly embellished. Almost** throughout the entire reading, although less sparse than usual, I was listening to various pieces of classical music. Reading Rizal's description of the German Rhineland—and I promise you this is not contrived—simultaneously I listened to Handel's Coronation Anthem No. 1. In chapter 15, "A Choice of Islands", we read two sealed letters which he had requested a friend to publish posthumously. One addressed his family; the other, to the "Filipinos". While reading, the low notes of an organ, played by none other than Karl Richter, resonated and catalysed the emotions which were then already beginning to swell in my heart—no, my soul! I am not as much of a hopeless romantic as the young Rizal, but only romantics are pushed on the verge of tears in a busy café because of a biography and some organ music.
But it wasn't just the marriage of Bach and Richter that was making me want to cry. Also, it isn't that I knew the ending of Rizal's story. It was as if... it was as if I was losing a friend***.
The only other Rizal biography or the like which I plan to read henceforth is Ocampo's "Rizal Without the Overcoat". After that, I don't know if I shall find it expedient to read a third. So I must write the following.
Maybe I can be forgiven for my lack of repertoire in the essential Filipiniana works. Maybe you can point me to other Rizal biographies that might be better. But, as much as someone of my age could manage to infer, Guerrero managed to capture the fullness of Rizal's life in "The First Filipino". With masterful prose, he accomplished great feats for me. Guerrero paints the scenery so as to put those of us with sufficiently imaginative minds in Rizal's presence. With great effort, he helps us feel and think not only retrospectively but contemporarily with Rizal himself, as events come and go, from the menial to the delightful. He also helps the uninformed reader navigate what he might already know or what he may have heard of Rizal in that he assists him in discovering which is wheat and chaff.
I acknowledge that while Guerrero's work is acclaimed, and hence I assume it is widely accepted among historians and academics, one must still proceed with caution. My reading of the book was intimate as if Guerrero was recounting to me a story of a dear friend of his who happened to be a very important man. This reading allows me to immerse in it fully, trying to set aside any scholarly scepticism, at which I would fail a few times, but ultimately I managed to do it enough to be overcome by emotion more times than I care to admit.
Guerrero made a very formidable case for Rizal as the first Filipino. No wonder this book is branded as "award-winning", and I have no qualms. Gratitude swelled in my heart as I finished the book, which I attribute to the new, more intense affinity I have for Rizal, built upon more than a decade of hearing and reading and listening to teachers talk ceaselessly—sometimes aimlessly—about him. Guerrero, on the other hand, wrote his book to an end. Alás, I hope it didn't end.
This work will benefit greatly from a faithful Audible version. I also hope someone will write a Spanish translation which keeps intact all correspondences and quotations in the original Spanish^. As someone with some aptitude for the Romance languages (Spanish chief among them), I would keep pressing on the footnotes hoping to find this or that letter in the original Spanish, and I would be disappointed every time. I trust the translators to be faithful to the original, but I also trust that they know how inevitably some things get lost in translation. The Kindle version is excellent but with few noticeable typographical errors.
* Guerrero was an accomplished diplomat and a prolific writer.
** I was not able to listen to music while reading on an Angkas/Joyride because of course not.
*** Again, such a sentiment befits the romantic that I am.
^ If anyone perchance knows of such a translation, please let me know.
I looked for a brief description of the author prior to reading. Frankly, I did not know who we was. I had the idea that this book was published within the past decade or two. I would be immediately sorry* to know that I didn't.
This isn't the first biography that I have read. This must be the second after reading another Filipino's biography, one of a later but not dissimilar time. Much like the subjects of this category of literature, I surmise that biographies cannot really be compared side-by-side. Or the case is, of course, that I am unqualified to make such a criticism, so I will not even approach the attempt.
Guerrero told me the story of Rizal's life as if the two were the best of friends. The former managed to put before me the shoes of the latter's best friend from across oceans Blumentritt, his family whom he loved, cherished, and endeared so much, the diverse temperaments of his closest colleagues, his 'many loves' but notably Josephine Bracken, and even some of his nastiest opponents and antagonisers. But I have had the privilege of listening to Guerrero's retelling of Rizal's story, already wearing the shoes of a Filipino.
Some concessions. My reading was, admittedly, as intimate as it could be and highly embellished. Almost** throughout the entire reading, although less sparse than usual, I was listening to various pieces of classical music. Reading Rizal's description of the German Rhineland—and I promise you this is not contrived—simultaneously I listened to Handel's Coronation Anthem No. 1. In chapter 15, "A Choice of Islands", we read two sealed letters which he had requested a friend to publish posthumously. One addressed his family; the other, to the "Filipinos". While reading, the low notes of an organ, played by none other than Karl Richter, resonated and catalysed the emotions which were then already beginning to swell in my heart—no, my soul! I am not as much of a hopeless romantic as the young Rizal, but only romantics are pushed on the verge of tears in a busy café because of a biography and some organ music.
But it wasn't just the marriage of Bach and Richter that was making me want to cry. Also, it isn't that I knew the ending of Rizal's story. It was as if... it was as if I was losing a friend***.
The only other Rizal biography or the like which I plan to read henceforth is Ocampo's "Rizal Without the Overcoat". After that, I don't know if I shall find it expedient to read a third. So I must write the following.
Maybe I can be forgiven for my lack of repertoire in the essential Filipiniana works. Maybe you can point me to other Rizal biographies that might be better. But, as much as someone of my age could manage to infer, Guerrero managed to capture the fullness of Rizal's life in "The First Filipino". With masterful prose, he accomplished great feats for me. Guerrero paints the scenery so as to put those of us with sufficiently imaginative minds in Rizal's presence. With great effort, he helps us feel and think not only retrospectively but contemporarily with Rizal himself, as events come and go, from the menial to the delightful. He also helps the uninformed reader navigate what he might already know or what he may have heard of Rizal in that he assists him in discovering which is wheat and chaff.
I acknowledge that while Guerrero's work is acclaimed, and hence I assume it is widely accepted among historians and academics, one must still proceed with caution. My reading of the book was intimate as if Guerrero was recounting to me a story of a dear friend of his who happened to be a very important man. This reading allows me to immerse in it fully, trying to set aside any scholarly scepticism, at which I would fail a few times, but ultimately I managed to do it enough to be overcome by emotion more times than I care to admit.
Guerrero made a very formidable case for Rizal as the first Filipino. No wonder this book is branded as "award-winning", and I have no qualms. Gratitude swelled in my heart as I finished the book, which I attribute to the new, more intense affinity I have for Rizal, built upon more than a decade of hearing and reading and listening to teachers talk ceaselessly—sometimes aimlessly—about him. Guerrero, on the other hand, wrote his book to an end. Alás, I hope it didn't end.
This work will benefit greatly from a faithful Audible version. I also hope someone will write a Spanish translation which keeps intact all correspondences and quotations in the original Spanish^. As someone with some aptitude for the Romance languages (Spanish chief among them), I would keep pressing on the footnotes hoping to find this or that letter in the original Spanish, and I would be disappointed every time. I trust the translators to be faithful to the original, but I also trust that they know how inevitably some things get lost in translation. The Kindle version is excellent but with few noticeable typographical errors.
* Guerrero was an accomplished diplomat and a prolific writer.
** I was not able to listen to music while reading on an Angkas/Joyride because of course not.
*** Again, such a sentiment befits the romantic that I am.
^ If anyone perchance knows of such a translation, please let me know.
July 16, 2014
I bought this book to suck up to my Rizal course instructor. He loved this one and was recommending it every meeting. So yeah, I bought this but I wasn't able to read it until 2 years later, yesterday. This is a biography, a history book of some sorts, so people doesn't really expect me to read this (I, a lover of fiction.)
But hey, I teared up at the end. The prose is engaging, more of story-telling than fact-relaying and I really, really loved the article as to why the book was entitled "The First Filipino". No, I won't spoil others. They have to buy the book.
But hey, I teared up at the end. The prose is engaging, more of story-telling than fact-relaying and I really, really loved the article as to why the book was entitled "The First Filipino". No, I won't spoil others. They have to buy the book.
March 7, 2021
This book sent me back in time, experiencing what Rizal experienced felt astonishing. Although, some parts I didn't understand, because my vocabulary was not enough for the book, but most of the time I enjoyed reading it. This book sparked a new interest for me, to read more Filipino literature.
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
May 21, 2012
very good
December 9, 2012
it's sooo aawesome! xD
June 27, 2022
This book was more than informational; it was genuinely interesting to read! I agree that Guerrero showed sides of Rizal that are never taught in classrooms and gave us a very human portrayal of our long revered national hero. At the same time though, Rizal's love for his people and ultimate death was somewhat likened to that of Jesus Christ, and I don't know if that strengthens or hurts the validity of this biography. It relied heavily on quotes and excerpts from historical texts, which is good since we can tell its credibility, but also kind of unusual when maybe half the book is actual original work written by the author.
I feel like the book gave me a slightly deeper understanding of Philippine history, but it also made me ask deeper questions about who we are as a nation. Right now ((more than ever!!)), we Filipinos need to know about our history – we need to have access to it, and we need to want to learn it. I think that reading books such as this one is a crucial first step to giving due importance and appreciation to our country's history.
I feel like the book gave me a slightly deeper understanding of Philippine history, but it also made me ask deeper questions about who we are as a nation. Right now ((more than ever!!)), we Filipinos need to know about our history – we need to have access to it, and we need to want to learn it. I think that reading books such as this one is a crucial first step to giving due importance and appreciation to our country's history.
May 22, 2023
This is a very thorough book about the revered "first leader" of the Philippines. The book is written in a rather dated style similar to non-English novels and homages of the late 19th century. It is also clearly written for a Filipino audience. I picked up the book to as background for research that I am doing about the Spanish American War. The numerous reprinted letters back and forth between Rizal, his family and colleagues seemed repetitive. However, if you want to understand the man and why he is viewed by Filipinos as being the First Filipino, this is a good, highly detailed biography.
I recommend the book to anyone who is looking for a detailed biography of the man and the inner workings of his mind, but light reading it is not.
I recommend the book to anyone who is looking for a detailed biography of the man and the inner workings of his mind, but light reading it is not.
December 31, 2022
This is the most detailed and comprehensive Rizalian biography I have ever read. How I wished this was a required reading for my Rizal subject in college. Gave so many insights on his life, trial and issues surrounding his death. I also finally understood the circumstances surrounding the retraction issue which I fully remember was a highlight of my PI 100 syllabus.
A must-read even if it is too long.
A must-read even if it is too long.
July 14, 2023
Of all the different books I've read about Rizal, this is the definitive biography of him. Guerrero was not shy of revealing the human behind the martyr. Informative about our nation's history and a must-read for every Filipino people. This book will fill a reader with pride and inspiration and will give more meaning to being a Filipino.
August 22, 2017
The book is not strictly chronological. Narration is too stylistic rather than straightforward. Does not contain illustrations. Later editions do not include index. If one wants a straightforward, chronological, comprehensive, with illustrations, then refer to Austin Craig's biography of Rizal.
March 15, 2022
"your mission is to baptize pagans, mine is to dignify men." / "spain is wherever she makes her influence felt by doing good; what can a red and yellow rag do, or guns and cannon, where love and affection do not spring?"
a required reading for every filipino. vote on may 9!
a required reading for every filipino. vote on may 9!
May 29, 2023
The First Filipino book is a national treasure. Guerrero weaved Philippine history and personal reflections. This is an example of a master of storytelling.
I felt a renewed sense of patriotism and love of national heroes after reading the book.
I felt a renewed sense of patriotism and love of national heroes after reading the book.
September 19, 2023
Though I am more of a Bonifacio fan and not so much of Rizal, I give this book a whopping 5 stars because of Leon Ma. Guerrero's elegance in writing and how well-researched this book is. It is an award-winning book for a reason.
December 26, 2017
its good and helpful
This entire review has been hidden because of spoilers.
November 20, 2018
GUERRERO’S THE FIRST FILIPINO
It all began after one hot-summer day. I was browsing the internet for something to read. My research, it seems, apparently looks dry and dreary. Nothing interesting, all equally monotonous. It was at the height of my studies, for we just finished our equally dull midterm exam. Everything was colorless.
Then BOOM! I saw in the headlines of our neighbor’s television a breaking news: The Supreme Court allows the construction of the notorious Torre de Manila, effectively “photobombing” the silhouette statue of the Rizal monument. While the decision of the High Court was met with mixed reactions, there was nothing to be done. It is now part of the law of the land.
Then, it hit me: What makes Rizal so popular in this day and age? Even when he was still alive, he was already a celebrity of sorts to his people, Bonifacio reportedly included. But why?
Clearly, I wanted to know the answer. Who is this man? Wielding nothing but the strokes of his majestic pen? Against a struggling empire of the West? Such audacity of this young man!
Thus, began my journey in search of a book that will humanize this prominent being. But, much to my regret, it took me weeks to find a historical tome. I went to various bookstores, the NHCP Bookstore included, but to no avail. There was, in my search, a lack of supply. Fortunately, I was able to retrieve a copy—written by the prose of lawyer-diplomat Leon Ma. Guerrero—and how happy I was! Like a boy who waited hours just to play with his toy, so I waited to finish my other books, before finally devouring Rizal’s biography, to the satisfaction of my love for history.
As I flipped the pages of this book, I realised that this life story was no ordinary biography. While there were marks of research and scholarship attributes, it was far from just being a research material. Rather, it had the written prose of a novelist. This I did not expect. The color, tone, expression, everything was there. Even Rizal’s own writings, translated to English, makes a lot of cameo. You can actually take a snippet of the patriot’s mind when he wrote those pieces, with the exception, of course, of his poems which was maintained in its Spanish cadence—a language I am not yet familiar with.
While there were many things noteworthy of this book, it is far from perfect. For one thing, it contained quite a messy narrative. As you’ll read along, you will surely notice Rizal of the present suddenly hijacked to his past, before resuming his present. This is a usual occurrence in this biography, confusing it might be. Also, Guerrero surely wrote verbosely. Not that it is wrong, but it will surely make you yawn or daydream, to some extent. The mind can only take so much information. But apart from these defects, the book is truly a masterpiece; worthy enough to win the First Prize in the Rizal Biography Contest in 1961.
Jose Rizal is a prominent figure in Philippine History. He fought differently from what has been done by those who came before him. When the Spaniards started to conquer the archipelago, so much violence and revolutions were used. From Lapu-Lapu of Mactan to Dagohoy of Bohol, revolution, insurrection, civil disobedience was the name of the game. Even Rizal’s contemporaries availed of the traditional method of revolting against their colonial master. His method was different, but not unique. His fellow compatriots, who have sojourned in Europe, also used the flare of the pen to bring out their grievances. But with Rizal’s pen, everything seemed right. The publication of the Noli Me Tangere and the El Filibusterismo seems to be the starting point of his outright defiance against the Spanish regime, with much brutal force against the Spanish clergy of his time. His novels, of which I am excited to read, united the divided people of the archipelago into one Filipino nation.
While that seems to be the case, I do not wholly agree on Guerrero’s theory that it was only Rizal who brought them all together, united. I clearly believe that the Father of the Revolution, the man from Tondo, had a hand to bring Rizal’s ideas into fruition. It was Bonifacio’s Katipunan that united the Philippines, with great aid from Rizal’s work and the ideas of the French Revolution. Due to its untimely discovery, the Philippine Revolution—the first of its kind in Asia—had to commence, out of great necessity. Still, Guerrero was correct, when he dubbed Rizal, “The First Filipino.”
To end this ultra-long book review, there was a discussion about Rizal’s alleged retraction of his works. Was this real? Or was it made up by the enemies of Rizal? Guerrero seems to agree. However, there are several proofs that make the alleged retraction seem false. Tough discussion, up for debate.
May this award-winning book be read by all Filipinos and foreigners alike. And, hopefully, we find it in our hearts the question Rizal strongly posed: "What is the use of independence if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?"
It all began after one hot-summer day. I was browsing the internet for something to read. My research, it seems, apparently looks dry and dreary. Nothing interesting, all equally monotonous. It was at the height of my studies, for we just finished our equally dull midterm exam. Everything was colorless.
Then BOOM! I saw in the headlines of our neighbor’s television a breaking news: The Supreme Court allows the construction of the notorious Torre de Manila, effectively “photobombing” the silhouette statue of the Rizal monument. While the decision of the High Court was met with mixed reactions, there was nothing to be done. It is now part of the law of the land.
Then, it hit me: What makes Rizal so popular in this day and age? Even when he was still alive, he was already a celebrity of sorts to his people, Bonifacio reportedly included. But why?
Clearly, I wanted to know the answer. Who is this man? Wielding nothing but the strokes of his majestic pen? Against a struggling empire of the West? Such audacity of this young man!
Thus, began my journey in search of a book that will humanize this prominent being. But, much to my regret, it took me weeks to find a historical tome. I went to various bookstores, the NHCP Bookstore included, but to no avail. There was, in my search, a lack of supply. Fortunately, I was able to retrieve a copy—written by the prose of lawyer-diplomat Leon Ma. Guerrero—and how happy I was! Like a boy who waited hours just to play with his toy, so I waited to finish my other books, before finally devouring Rizal’s biography, to the satisfaction of my love for history.
As I flipped the pages of this book, I realised that this life story was no ordinary biography. While there were marks of research and scholarship attributes, it was far from just being a research material. Rather, it had the written prose of a novelist. This I did not expect. The color, tone, expression, everything was there. Even Rizal’s own writings, translated to English, makes a lot of cameo. You can actually take a snippet of the patriot’s mind when he wrote those pieces, with the exception, of course, of his poems which was maintained in its Spanish cadence—a language I am not yet familiar with.
While there were many things noteworthy of this book, it is far from perfect. For one thing, it contained quite a messy narrative. As you’ll read along, you will surely notice Rizal of the present suddenly hijacked to his past, before resuming his present. This is a usual occurrence in this biography, confusing it might be. Also, Guerrero surely wrote verbosely. Not that it is wrong, but it will surely make you yawn or daydream, to some extent. The mind can only take so much information. But apart from these defects, the book is truly a masterpiece; worthy enough to win the First Prize in the Rizal Biography Contest in 1961.
Jose Rizal is a prominent figure in Philippine History. He fought differently from what has been done by those who came before him. When the Spaniards started to conquer the archipelago, so much violence and revolutions were used. From Lapu-Lapu of Mactan to Dagohoy of Bohol, revolution, insurrection, civil disobedience was the name of the game. Even Rizal’s contemporaries availed of the traditional method of revolting against their colonial master. His method was different, but not unique. His fellow compatriots, who have sojourned in Europe, also used the flare of the pen to bring out their grievances. But with Rizal’s pen, everything seemed right. The publication of the Noli Me Tangere and the El Filibusterismo seems to be the starting point of his outright defiance against the Spanish regime, with much brutal force against the Spanish clergy of his time. His novels, of which I am excited to read, united the divided people of the archipelago into one Filipino nation.
While that seems to be the case, I do not wholly agree on Guerrero’s theory that it was only Rizal who brought them all together, united. I clearly believe that the Father of the Revolution, the man from Tondo, had a hand to bring Rizal’s ideas into fruition. It was Bonifacio’s Katipunan that united the Philippines, with great aid from Rizal’s work and the ideas of the French Revolution. Due to its untimely discovery, the Philippine Revolution—the first of its kind in Asia—had to commence, out of great necessity. Still, Guerrero was correct, when he dubbed Rizal, “The First Filipino.”
To end this ultra-long book review, there was a discussion about Rizal’s alleged retraction of his works. Was this real? Or was it made up by the enemies of Rizal? Guerrero seems to agree. However, there are several proofs that make the alleged retraction seem false. Tough discussion, up for debate.
May this award-winning book be read by all Filipinos and foreigners alike. And, hopefully, we find it in our hearts the question Rizal strongly posed: "What is the use of independence if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?"
Read
July 30, 2019Rizal life history
April 24, 2022
I didnt like the writing style in some days but this material is very substantial!
June 30, 2024
Worth reading!
January 10, 2018
It took a month trying to finish this comprehensive biography and there were times I doubted myself if I'll ever reach the next chapter. I had too many in my plate lately and reading an important literature of my history got overwhelming with details and experiences.
This is an important book about a formidable person who should not remain mythical in textbooks. I have been introduced to a fresh perspective of learning about Rizal and so as other heroes mentioned here. They were those who fought and struggled during their lifetime when there was an option to just keep out and let the cruel system be. This book humanized the myths, antagonized the ideals and explained in plain narrative how events transitioned and characters intersected during an important time in Philippines' history.
I looked thru the lampara across young Jose waiting for the moth to be swallowed by fire. His growing loath from discrimination also grew in me. The many infatuations, broken heart and eventual defying love has entertained me in a way that I did not expect such narrative from a patriot's life. But what I appreciate most is the realization that Rizal and his compatriots are far from a perfect image and perfect love for country, because they were human who faced doubts and difficulties too.
So by reading this book, every Filipino will be enlightened on what made Rizal stand against oppression and how. What came to be after the people's rising? Rizal's history is relevant to our current story. A centennial has passed and power has changed hands. Our heroes are dead, but tyranny is not, it is only presented in a different form.
This is an important book about a formidable person who should not remain mythical in textbooks. I have been introduced to a fresh perspective of learning about Rizal and so as other heroes mentioned here. They were those who fought and struggled during their lifetime when there was an option to just keep out and let the cruel system be. This book humanized the myths, antagonized the ideals and explained in plain narrative how events transitioned and characters intersected during an important time in Philippines' history.
I looked thru the lampara across young Jose waiting for the moth to be swallowed by fire. His growing loath from discrimination also grew in me. The many infatuations, broken heart and eventual defying love has entertained me in a way that I did not expect such narrative from a patriot's life. But what I appreciate most is the realization that Rizal and his compatriots are far from a perfect image and perfect love for country, because they were human who faced doubts and difficulties too.
So by reading this book, every Filipino will be enlightened on what made Rizal stand against oppression and how. What came to be after the people's rising? Rizal's history is relevant to our current story. A centennial has passed and power has changed hands. Our heroes are dead, but tyranny is not, it is only presented in a different form.
Read
September 21, 2007best book on the life of jose rizal
very good contextual analysis, not just factual contents
very well written
good story telling
read this if you want to understand the transformation of rizal from a student at Binan, to the Ateneo, to Europe and towards becoming a "thought" leader of the Filipino revolution
very good contextual analysis, not just factual contents
very well written
good story telling
read this if you want to understand the transformation of rizal from a student at Binan, to the Ateneo, to Europe and towards becoming a "thought" leader of the Filipino revolution
Read
May 27, 2014This helped me a lot understand the history of my country during the time of Jose Rizal. A background of Spain, Singapore, Germany, England, and the Philippines can be glimpsed.
This book is one good read while taking a Jose Rizal class in college and even high school for that matter.=)
This book is one good read while taking a Jose Rizal class in college and even high school for that matter.=)
November 21, 2007
great patrionism
May 16, 2020
I finally finished reading the book on Dec. 30, 2012, Rizal's 116th death anniversary. It is a great book, a must read for all Filipinos.
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