Workshop Class - Being a Global Citizen: is a content class, focusing on Philippine and Japanese Society and Culture. This class is taught in English, and as such, English is the language used in discussion, presentation and writing.
Nanzan University
Lecturer: Abigail B. CAPITIN-PRINCIPE
Topics for final presentation The Life of Jose Rizal
Planning the class presentation: 4-part documentary Rizal's young life Rizal's experience in travelling around the world Rizal's life as a doctor Rizal as a national hero of the Phiippnes
How to make a documentary
Week 12
Planning/Research Record the video: use an iPhone or iPad, edit with iMovie if needed
Week 13
Prepare the documentary
Finalize documentary video, make sure everything is done.
Writing activity: summary of documentary information
He's the most famous Philippine hero who has statues honoring him long after his death across the world, including one in Japan. And now, Jose Rizal has been immortalized in manga form.
Out today -- Rizal's birth anniversary -- and available online for free, "Jose Rizal" adapts the life of the legendary Filipino figure and tells of how he inspired a national revolution against the Spanish rule.
Publisher TORICO said this is the first manga written about Rizal. The short first chapter opens with his execution in Bagumbayan, and ends with a young Rizal witnessing the arrest of his mother.
In an interview with CNN Philippines, TORICO representative Takuro Ando shared that the inspiration behind the original manga stems from his curiosity on why Rizal had a statue in Tokyo.
He described Rizal as a genius "who had changed his country not through violence but through his knowledge and hard work."
Rizal stayed in Japan for 45 days in 1888 and was said to have been charmed by the country's natural beauty and its people, prompting him to study its culture and traditions. During his sojourn, he fell in love with a Japanese woman named Seiko Usui.
Matsui Takahiro, who, according to reports, had worked in the Philippines before, wrote the storyline, while Ryo Konno was in charge of the illustrations.
Jose Rizal is the National Hero of the Philippines. Find out more about his life from the reading and links provided:
José Rizal Biography
Doctor, Journalist, Poet (1861–1896)
José Rizal called for peaceful reform of Spain's colonial rule in the Philippines. After his 1896 execution, he became an icon for the nationalist movement.
Synopsis
José Rizal was born on June 19, 1861, in Calamba, Philippines. While living in Europe, Rizal wrote about the discrimination that accompanied Spain's colonial rule of his country. He returned to the Philippines in 1892, but was exiled due to his desire for reform. Although he supported peaceful change, Rizal was convicted of sedition and executed on December 30, 1896, at age 35.
Early Life
On June 19, 1861, José Protasio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda was born in Calamba in the Philippines' Laguna Province. A brilliant student who became proficient in multiple languages, José Rizal studied medicine in Manila. In 1882, he traveled to Spain to complete his medical degree.
Writing and Reform
While in Europe, José Rizal became part of the Propaganda Movement, connecting with other Filipinos who wanted reform. He also wrote his first novel, Noli Me Tangere (Touch Me Not/The Social Cancer), a work that detailed the dark aspects of Spain's colonial rule in the Philippines, with particular focus on the role of Catholic friars. The book was banned in the Philippines, though copies were smuggled in. Because of this novel, Rizal's return to the Philippines in 1887 was cut short when he was targeted by police.
Rizal returned to Europe and continued to write, releasing his follow-up novel, El Filibusterismo (The Reign of Greed) in 1891. He also published articles in La Solidaridad, a paper aligned with the Propaganda Movement. The reforms Rizal advocated for did not include independence—he called for equal treatment of Filipinos, limiting the power of Spanish friars and representation for the Philippines in the Spanish Cortes (Spain's parliament).
Exile in the Philippines
Rizal returned to the Philippines in 1892, feeling he needed to be in the country to effect change. Although the reform society he founded, the Liga Filipino (Philippine League), supported non-violent action, Rizal was still exiled to Dapitan, on the island of Mindanao. During the four years Rizal was in exile, he practiced medicine and took on students.
Execution and Legacy
In 1895, Rizal asked for permission to travel to Cuba as an army doctor. His request was approved, but in August 1896, Katipunan, a nationalist Filipino society founded by Andres Bonifacio, revolted. Though he had no ties to the group, and disapproved of its violent methods, Rizal was arrested shortly thereafter.
After a show trial, Rizal was convicted of sedition and sentenced to death by firing squad. Rizal's public execution was carried out in Manila on December 30, 1896, when he was 35 years old. His execution created more opposition to Spanish rule.
Spain's control of the Philippines ended in 1898, though the country did not gain lasting independence until after World War II. Rizal remains a nationalist icon in the Philippines for helping the country take its first steps toward independence.
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The City of Pines (also known as the country’s Summer Capital) is known for having a cooler climate as compared to the majority of the provinces in the country. With that, fruits and vegetables are always fresh and walking from one establishment to another isn’t a problem. Because of its calm and cool ambience, it seemingly puts residents into a good mood at all times. While commercialization is definitely obvious and heavy traffic builds up every now and then, Baguio City preserves its charm, laid-back atmosphere, art scenes, and of course, the stunning, nature attractions.
Tagaytay City
When it comes to spur-of-the-moment out of town trips, Tagaytay is always a common top choice among travelers. That’s because it only takes less than two hours from Manila to reach this destination. Whether it’s a trip with the significant other, a group of friends, or a vacation with the whole family, the numerous leisure and outdoor activities definitely won’t disappoint. Apart from the cool temperature and its close proximity to Metro Manila, current major developments are also focused within the area. And unlike Manila, majority of the land area is covered in greens, thick smog is nowhere to be found, and the breathtaking view of Taal Lake will always leave you in awe.
Lipa City, Batangas
If you’re a beach bum who loves peace and quiet, you won’t get enough of the stunning, picturesque beaches in the province of Batangas. Whether it’s fine white-sand beaches or rocky shores, Batangas has various beach resorts perfect for solitude-seekers. The province also caters to newbie hikers and climbers because of its hiking and mountain climbing destinations. If you’re considering to move to Batangas, Lipa City is said to be a top choice especially among retirees because of its cooler climate and ideal location – being close to nature’s best attractions and convenient travel to the country’s capital, Manila.
Sta. Rosa City, Laguna
Apart from being home to various historical spots, nature parks, hot springs, and popular theme park Enchanted Kingdom, major commercialization developments are focused within the suburbs of Laguna. And, if you’re someone who’s looking to move within an areas of greens yet provides accessible modern comforts such as food parks, malls, and other commercial establishments, the booming area of Santa Rosa City is a perfect choice. What was once a vast fields of greens has developed into a conducive, family-friendly environment characterized by open spaces and rich natural surroundings while offering retail centers for residents’ everyday needs.
Subic, Zambales
Renowned for being a former US naval base, Subic has also become a popular tourist attraction among adventure-seekers because of thrilling rides, diving areas for shipwrecks and coral species, and wondrous beaches. While its famous among families or those traveling in groups, Subic area is also a sought-after residential spot for offering both rural and urban living. Even if it’s four hours away from Metro Manila, it has unique shopping and dining options and the best part is, one can drive around safely because traffic rules are strictly implemented.
Makati City
Amidst the horrendous situation of Manila traffic, business-capital Makati City is a standout city in the country’s National Capital Region. Apart from offering everything that one needs within the vast commercial and business establishments, both home seekers and investors are keen to invest in this area. For home seekers, top-quality condominiums are available and thus, provides convenience for those who work around the area and prefer to enjoy the city life. Plus, Makati’s government is known to strictly implement security and traffic rules which guarantees one’s overall safety.
Cebu City
Being the Visayas Region‘s main business hub, Cebu boasts the perfect combination of both urban and natural attractions within one’s reach. One can easily immerse in good food, entertainment, rich culture, and world-class beaches such as those in Malapascua, Sumilon, and Bantayan within a short distance. Apart from being the location of the grand Sinulog Festival and being home to famous native delicacies, there’s a number of growing economic centers and industries for those seeking new career opportunities. In addition, Cebuanos are also generally well-known to be accommodating individuals.
Bacolod City
Bacolod City has been dubbed twice as the Philippines’ best place to live in by two separate magazines in the years 2008 and 2017. This comes as no surprise because it offers amenities like that of a highly-urbanized city but only better – a cleaner and greener environment, absence of traffic woes, and a lower cost of living. It’s also home to the most delectable cuisine where restaurants, pastry shops and fine dining restaurants give one a taste of how the sweet life is like in the city found within the country’s Sugar Bowl Capital. Bacolod City is also known as ‘The City of Smiles’ and that’s because its charming locals are known for their warmth and hospitality.
Iloilo City
Being one of the highlights of Panay Island, Iloilo City is dubbed as the ‘jewel’ of the Western Visayas. This close neighbor of Bacolod City is also home to genuinely kind people and also has a highly-urbanized setting while fostering a relaxed atmosphere. There are only a few traffic jams experienced within this city and so, it’s expected that locals here are happier. Apart from the Dinagyang Festival (which is the city’s biggest cultural and widely-celebrated festival), hitting the beaches and island-hopping are right outside the city as it’s near the islands of Boracay and Guimaras. They also have bike-friendly lanes, an esplanade ideal for relaxing late afternoon walks, and heavenly seafood restaurants!
Davao City
Davao City is considered as one of the most livable and safest cities in the world primarily because of its low crime rates and strict enforcement of discipline and order by its local government. It has a centralized communication in providing emergency responses to its residents. And because Davao City is easily accessible via land, sea or air travel, it’s no wonder that it has also become a business hub and a regional center in southern Philippines. As one of the fastest developing cities, the local government has its full support in ensuring that public utilities and infrastructures are well-maintained.
The festival forms an auspicious day for everyone and also for other celebrations that are prevalent in every society and religious communities. Festivals are an important part of our life. In a country like India, festivals are associated with religion. The Hindus worship many deities. This is why there are many Hindu festivals. Here is why celebrating festivals is important :
• We celebrate festivals mainly to propagate the cultural heritage of nations. • A festival also helps us to embrace one another in a bond of love. • Across the globe the festivals bring convergence. • All of the festivals have some scientific reason to celebrate. The most important thing behind celebrating a festival is to spread happiness. • It is during a festival that people exchange gifts with one another and celebrate the events together. In fact, it is one of the best times to meet friends and family members which otherwise is not possible. • At festival time the family members, friends, neighbors, and relatives meet together and enjoy the time spent in the company of each other. This meeting helps to make relations stronger forever. It also provides us with a chance to know better about our culture and each other. • At the national level, the festivals help to promote patriotic spirit and solidarity in the society. • Festival keeps us together. • Festivals depict the many different aspects of a society. • Festivals have many stories, customs, and traditions connected to them. Each and every festival has a symbolism and the entire proceedings is centered on that particular theme. • Festivals teach us to forget our enmity. • It is at the time of a festival that we are worshiping God. A festival helps to enhance our faith in truth. Now all community peoples celebrate all festival together. This increases feelings of brotherhood. • Ethical, moral as well as social values of life that blend well with entertainment through festivals. • The international festivals enhance brotherhood as well as to eliminate ethnic racism in the world. • They also help to create an environment of cultural harmony. • We also celebrate festivals to make someone smile. We should celebrate our festivals in such a way that we can stop too much waste of money, should not pollute the environment. Other importance of festivals are as follows: • We celebrate festivals in memory of the victory of truth, victory of light over darkness. • When we celebrate a festival, it helps to relieve ourselves from the monotony of life. • When we celebrate festivals of all kinds in a country, it improves the overall image of the country and shows the acceptance of cultural diversity in the country.
It is advantageous for our business: It is during festival times that we shop a lot prompting the retail stores so that the shopkeepers can provide us with heavy discounts. During Christmas, Diwali or Eid people tend to purchase gifts for each other. It also helps us to decorate our homes. This is why the festivals have a major impact on the sales of vehicles and electronic items also increase during the festive period. It is during a festival that the shopkeepers have a gala time and they wait especially for these occasions to make a sound profit. Eating out: These days the families rarely have free time left on their hands. This is why the festival is the only event when they can go out and have a good time at the malls. There are many people who prefer to watch movies while others dine in multi cuisine restaurants. Happiness all-around: A major advantage of celebrating a festival is that it helps to instill happiness amongst the people. The people visit one another or gather around at a particular place or visit each other, it is also the best time for them to talk over the dinner and chill out in a relaxed environment. This is why a festival serves as a welcome break from the mundane routine of performing household chores and office work. Festivals add color to the life. It helps promote tourism: Festivals are celebrated to promote tourism, the traditional handicrafts, the potential of the state as well as the unity in diversity of its people.
A festival teaches us to take care of the poor: At festival times a very important charity activities is feeding the poor and giving them alms. It serves as a wonderful gesture especially from the rich people to give back to the society. In a nutshell, the occasion increases the feeling of brotherhood amongst the neighbors as they meet and have a good time.
Japan is a land steeped in tradition. These customs, often centuries old, come to life in vivid detail during Japan’s numerous matsuri, or popular festivals. Traditional costumes and clothing, special and authentic food, and stunning, colorful decorations are facets of each unforgettable festival experience.
The summer months are especially populated by festivals. Many are held outdoors, and favorable weather allows visitors to enjoy the celebrations both day and night. Consider the list below of some of Japan’s most popular summer festivals.
Mitama Matsuri festival
What: Twenty thousand lanterns light Tokyo’s Yasukuni Shrine for the four days of the festival. Traditional food stalls offer their fare along the temple’s main alley. Attendees often wear yukata, traditional kimonos made of lightweight cotton. Floats, traditional dance, and theatrical performances contribute to a festive atmosphere.
When: July 12 to 15.
Where: The Yasukuni Jinja Shrine, Tokyo, near Kudashita Station.
Gion Matsuri
What: The Gion Festival dates back to the ninth century. It is famous for its floats, which may be 25 meters in height and weigh 12 tons. Thirty or more floats may be used, each representing a distinct neighborhood or corporation of Kyoto.
The wheels that mobilize the floats are often as tall as a person. During the height of the festival, traffic is barricaded from Kyoto’s city center to allow stands and yatai stalls containing food and games to be set up. Later, traditional neighborhoods are decorated with flowers, banners, and flags, and illuminated with lanterns. The famous parade begins at the Yasaka Shrine in Kyoto’s Gion district. The festival received the designation of “World Intangible Cultural Heritage” event in 2009.
When: The entire month of July; the most popular events occur on July 14 to 17.
Where: Near Yasaka Shrine, Kyoto (buses from Kyoto Station).
Tenjin Matsuri
What: The Tenjin Matsuri is a boat festival that dates back 1,000 years. The festival is a tribute to arts patron Tenman Tenjin. Festivities involve upwards of 3,000 performers dressed in traditional attire of the 700’s through the 1100’s, who carry portable shrines, or The Tenjin Matsuri is a boat festival that dates back 1,000 years.
The festival is a tribute to arts patron Tenman Tenjin. Festivities involve upwards of 3,000 performers dressed in traditional attire of the 700’s through the 1100’s, who carry portable shrines, or omikoshi, through the city. One hundred boats also set out in procession; as evening falls, fires are lit aboard the boats as fireworks light the night sky.
When: July 24 and 25.
Where: Near Temmangu Shrine in Osaka (next to Osakatemmangu Station).
Sumidagawa Fireworks Festival
What: The Sumidagawa is the oldest fireworks festival in the world, established in 1732. It celebrates hanabi, Japanese fireworks, and includes fireworks display competitions. The festival attracts one million attendees annually, many of whom dress in traditional yukatakimonos.
When: The last Saturday in July (27th on 2019). In the event of rain, the festival will be cancelled.
Where: Tokyo, on the banks of the Sumida River, near Asakusa Station and district. Sumida Park is the most popular viewpoint.
Aomori Nebuta Matsuri
What:Considered one of the top three Japanese festivals, the Nebuta festival has been designated as a “World Intangible Cultural Heritage” event. Each evening, parades of dancers carry illuminated floats. The parades last for hours, and on the final day of the festival, fireworks are lit as the floats are literally set afloat on the sea.
It is thought that this festival has its origins in the Tanabata Festival, which was appropriated from China during the 700’s.
When: Nightly, from August 1 to 6.
Where: Aomori, Aomori Prefecture.
Awa Odori Matsuri
What: This festival is a part of the Buddhist Obon rites, which bid welcome to the spirits of the dead. It is a holiday of family reunion when the spirits of ancestors are thought to visit household altars.
Having been celebrated for over 500 years, it is one of the most famous events in the country, and boasts of being the largest festival. Each evening, the streets are awakened to the sound of drums, shamisen – a traditional guitar-like instrument with three strings – and other instruments. Bon-Odori dancers wear straw hats and yukata kimonos.
When: Nightly, from August 12 to 15.
Where: Tokushima, in the region of Shikoku.
Kanamara Matsuri
What:Also known as the Festival of the Steel Phallus, this festival is considered one of the more “unusual” and “infamous” of Japan’s summer festivals. Its purpose is to raise money for HIV and AIDS research; therefore, its decorations, candy, and souvenirs are often “modeled after symbols of fertility.”
When: April 7th.
Where: Kawasaki, just south of Tokyo.
Where: Tokushima, in the region of Shikoku.
Kanamara Matsuri
What:Also known as the Festival of the Steel Phallus, this festival is considered one of the more “unusual” and “infamous” of Japan’s summer festivals. Its purpose is to raise money for HIV and AIDS research; therefore, its decorations, candy, and souvenirs are often “modeled after symbols of fertility.”
In this section you will find an interesting Filipino’s life most celebrated events, the Philippines Festivals. These event increases Philippines tourism because it attracts more tourist and vacationers to witness on how the Filipino celebrates, specially on the major Festivals in the country. It is also one the most awaited moment of some photographers to capture great photo’s, fun-activities and happy memories.
Fiestas in the Philippines
When we say “Fiesta or Festival” some of us will jumped into the conclusion for a wonderful season or a happy events in Filipino’s life. Always colorful, accompanied by happy music, fun-activities and sports, feasting, and Roman Catholic ritual. Fiesta is a part of Filipino culture in which each Province, City and even its Barangay celebrating their own festival as a part of remembering and to honor saints who lived long time ago.
Origin of Philippines Festival
During the Spanish Era, way back midst 1500’s, the word Fiesta which means a religious festival in Spanish-speaking regions or an event marked by festivities or celebration was brought by the Spaniards. One good thing during the colonization, Spanish missionaries set a certain days to remember particular saints with processions and celebrations called “fiesta” to help teach Filipinos the Roman Catholic faith. Nowadays, one of the major festival in the Philippines and for the for whole world celebrated season is Christmas, to show peace, love and to celebrate events in the life of Jesus. Months:
May
Santa Cruzan –May 1, 8, 15, 22, 29 – Nationwide
Carabao Festival – May 14 – Angono, Rizal
June
Pintados Festival – June 29 – Tacloban City
July and August
Kadayawan Festival – 3rd Week of August – Davao City
