Manuel S.

Enverga University Foundation

Kartilya ng Katipunan

1. What is the concept of nationalism according to Emilio Jacinto?

Emiilio Jacinto was the author of Kartilya ng Katipunan, in which containing the qualification and
moral values should be embedded in every member of the katipunan. This organization empowers
nationalism towards achieving freedom and nation-building of the country. In the readings, it was
stated “one of the foremost rules here is true love of the native land and genuine compassion for
one another.” Subsequently, “Poor, rich, ignorant, wise-here, all are equal and true brethren. (p.69-
70). Moreover, the readings also include those who were thirsty for recognition and only join for
personal agenda is not a reflection of the true essence of nationalism and must not proceed for the
membership.

Therefore, the concept of Jacinto regarding nationalism is giving significance for the goodness
and resiliency. In addition, it is showing sympathetic affection to other citizen, forming a solution
for the nation, and values identity as a sovereign Filipino people. He also brought us the idea of
equality in nationalism as he wrote on the page 70 in the reading that all kinds of Filipinos
regardless of their social status were belong in building the integrity of our country.

In relevance with the present time, we are evolving into more diverse race and social identity. We
must apply the Jacinto’s concept of nationalism for us to empower our community towards
bringing again the hope for our country. We must give a hand and provide something for those who
were unfortunate. We must have a cultural understanding to bring every race and culture a sense
of belongingness. In this way, all are able to encourage and be part of nation-building to claim the
complete and resilient Filipino identity.

2. According to Jacinto, who were qualified to join the secret society?

Included in 70-71 in the readings, the chapter entitled “Association of the Sons of the People: To
Those Who Want to Join this Association”, containing the statements describing the aspiring
member who must not join if those statements are their traits. Aspiring one must not proceed if
possesses the following: just want to know the secrets of the group, personal gratification, replace
or sell the values for silver, to have a comfort life, demand for money or seek for financial support.

Meaning, those who were qualified to join based to Jacinto must have the following: able to
sacrifice himself/herself, eagerness to defend the country, will not use the association for own
interest, determined to achieve freedom for the goodness of all the Filipino, values the sense of
unity, and resilient to overcome detrimental situation and struggles.

As a part of a youth organization, Sinag Quezon Inc., we give importance to the unity and
understanding for us to achieve success in every project we implement in a specific community.
We evaluate our member once she/he will run for a position. If she/he run just for affiliation, we do
 not tolerate the action. During membership, we conduct a deliberation and once we presume that
this aspiring member just to add an organization for his/her curriculum vitae, the verdict will be
“not accepted.” This is a crucial decision because it will affect the performance of the association
or organization as a whole. We must be critical and decisive.

3. How would you describe the Kartilya in terms of its form/writing style and content? What are
its main teaching and how are they presented?

The Kartilya ng Katipunan represents as the constitution by laws of the association. In the
construction of the sentence, it is more on in a descriptive form of writing that highlights the ethics
and behavior of the aspiring member or a member. The content focuses based on the real-life
situations that happen mostly in a circle of association. It has a strong conviction and clear
statement to deliver the message and essence of why Katipunan needs a faithful member. It values
integrity, dignity, and principles as they defend and fight for the absolute freedom of our country.

In the readings, from page 71-72, it covers the 13 teachings of the Sons of the People. The main
teachings were a member of a Katipunan must be dedicated, set aside the self-interest, have a
compassionate service, equal treatment for all, values honor and time, pro-poor and protect the
oppressed, a good leader, respect woman and family, humble, and a good teacher. These are
presented in an organized manner to understand clearly the idea. Also, it must be presented in
action of the member.

Every organization or association must have their constitution by laws to keep the peace and order,
but not the purpose of to control the members. Each statement and teachings must situational-
base and pro-active. The member must honor and follow what is written on the agreement.
Moreover, it must not just have written by one person rather it must have composed by the group
of directors to collect a diverse idea, from one perspective to another.

4. What was the socio-political context when the Kartilya was written? how crucial was this
document in the 19th century Philippines?

The Kartilya ng Katipunan was written during the Spanish colonization and its purpose is to wake
up the minds and encourage the Filipino citizen to join the association for revolution in achieving
our nation’s freedom. The socio-political context is that the higher rank Filipino rebels like Emilio
Jacinto and Andres Bonifacio invited the most of the ordinary Filipino citizen in the association.
Their underground movements against the Spanish was composed of normal citizen such as
farmers, fishermen, workers, and more. With that, we all know that there was a Spanish
government but during that time, we should also elect the officers that will serve as the decision-
making proponent and the implementing committee to guide those normal citizens in our society.
To orient what they are fighting for our country.

This Kartilya was crucial during the 19th century. It must remain hidden from those Spanish
colonizers because once it was revealed they will exile, kill, and abused as the plan of the Katipunan
will be sabotage or the colonizers will be prepared for an attack. It must remain underground to
avoid and keep the members alive and be ready for the great war revolution.