"Blogging" a century before probably was diary writing. A blog is really a "log" or entry in a personal journal or diary, and Rizal was fond of doing that. A definition I saw on a website says, "A blog is essentially an online journal or diary where individuals or groups can share their thoughts, experiences, or expertise."
You write a diary for keeping a record of your life and how life was at a particular time, planning to leave this for posterity to read, especially your descendants. A blog, especially a personal blog, is pretty much the same thing, only it's online and can be read by millions around the world. Rizal would have loved the idea.
If José Rizal were a blog writer today, I think his writings would likely reflect his love life (first of all), and then intellectual depth, passion for social justice, and commitment to uplifting the Filipino people. He would use his blog as a platform for awakening national consciousness, exposing societal injustices, and encouraging Filipinos to embrace education, unity, and civic responsibility. Would he blog to bash people he didn't like or use it to campaign himself for a seat in politics? Umm, I don't think so. Here are some themes he might explore:
1. National Identity and Filipino Pride
Rizal’s writings often emphasized the importance of national identity. His blog would likely delve into discussions on Filipino heritage, language, and culture, urging readers to appreciate and preserve their roots. He might write about the significance of using Filipino as a language of intellectual discourse, just as he advocated for it during his time.
2. Education as the Key to Progress
A strong advocate for education, Rizal would use his blog to empower young Filipinos by sharing insights on lifelong learning, self-improvement, and knowledge as a tool for liberation. He would likely publish articles promoting free access to education and criticizing systems that hinder the intellectual growth of the poor.
3. Social Justice and the Fight Against Corruption
Not exactly malign individuals in politics, or attack people maliciously, but Rizal’s blog would not shy away from addressing government corruption and social injustice. He might write investigative articles exposing abuses by powerful figures, calling for transparency in governance, and urging citizens to actively participate in political reform. Much like his writings in La Solidaridad, his blog would serve as a voice for the oppressed.
4. Global Perspectives on Filipino Progress
Since Rizal traveled extensively, he would likely compare the Philippines' progress with other nations, highlighting best practices that Filipinos could adopt. His blog would serve as a hub for critical analysis on how the country could achieve social and economic growth, drawing lessons from countries he admired.
5. The Power of Art and Literature
Rizal understood that literature could shape national identity and spark revolution. He would likely post modern-day essays exploring how literature, films, and digital media influence the Filipino psyche. He might also share reflections on the responsibility of bloggers, vloggers, social media praactitioners, Tiktokers, writers and artists in shaping public consciousness.
6. Health and Well-Being
Since Rizal was a physician, he might dedicate part of his blog or FB page or Youtube channel to public health, offering medical advice, discussing common illnesses, and advocating for healthcare accessibility---probably even commenting on Philhealth, diabetes and dialysis, big pharma, intermittent fasting and OMAD. His posts could encourage Filipinos to prioritize mental and physical well-being, recognizing the link between a healthy citizenry and a prosperous nation.
7. The Role of Youth in Nation-Building
Believing that, “The youth is the hope of the nation.” Rizal's blog would inspire young Filipinos to take leadership roles, engage in activism, and contribute to the country’s future. He might even collaborate with young thought leaders, featuring guest blogs from students, entrepreneurs, and social advocates. And probably, he too may be tagged as a communist for doing so.
8. Militate for the West Philippine Sea
I'm sure Rizal would fight for Philippine soverignty over its territorial waters and lambast China for its infringement on our territorial rights and outlandish claims. But he will strongly advocate for diplomacy in everything, ruling out war and violent confrontation with China, although his stand on the Philippines being a province of Spain would probably make him vacciliate on the Philippines-China issue as well.
Ultimately, Rizal’s blog would be thought-provoking, fearless, and educational, serving as a digital extension of his revolutionary spirit. It would ignite discussions, challenge complacency, and encourage Filipinos to take action toward a brighter future. If Rizal had a blog today, would you subscribe?
If you have a personal or small business blog (or need to create one) and you need someone to post relevant articles on it (you need at least 1 fresh post per week), just contact me via the contact form below (or directly to slogbhop@gmail.com). I'll do it for Php 700 per 700-word article. And always drop by my Blog Shop, I mean Slog Bhop 😅.
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