Dr. Jose Rizal is often hailed as the "First Filipino," not just for his revolutionary ideals but for his vision of a united Philippines. Before his time, the archipelago was a collection of islands, each with its own language, culture, and identity. The term "Filipino" was primarily used by Spaniards born in the Philippines, not by the native inhabitants themselves. Rizal, through his writings, sacrifices, and unwavering belief in education and reform, began to shape the idea of a singular identity—a shared destiny for all the people across Las Islas Filipinas.

Rizal's generation planted the seeds of nationalism, envisioning a "Filipinas" that transcended tribal and regional divides. His works, particularly Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo, awakened a sense of shared struggle and collective identity among Filipinos. He inspired a movement that united people from diverse backgrounds under one flag, one dream of freedom and equality.

Today, in the age of social media, Rizal's legacy faces challenges as some voices attempt to diminish his significance as our national hero. However, his vision remains profoundly relevant. The Philippines, like Rizal’s time, is at a crossroads. The call for unity—one nation, one people—is as pressing as ever. Rizal believed in the power of solidarity, much like how a fraternity thrives on brotherhood and shared ideals.

Let us honor Rizal not just as a symbol of our past but as a guide for our future. His dream of "One Filipinas" is a reminder that despite our differences, we are stronger together. To discredit him is to forget the foundation of our identity as a nation. Let us not let disintegration creep into our society, but instead, let us embody the unity Rizal so passionately envisioned.

As he once wrote: “I die without seeing the dawn brighten over my native land. You who have it to see, welcome it—and forget not those who have fallen during the night!”

Rizal's vision is our beacon—may we strive to keep it alive.