House Bill No. 5561 holds a significant place in Philippine legislative history. Passed during the post-war era of nation-building, this bill laid the foundation for commemorating one of the country's greatest heroes. On May 2, 1956, the Senate of the Philippines officially endorsed House Bill No. 5561 without any alterations — a rare occurrence in the legislative process that demonstrated widespread political support for the measure.
What Was House Bill No. 5561?
House Bill No. 5561 was a legislative proposal introduced in the House of Representatives of the Philippines during the Third Congress. The bill aimed to require the inclusion of the life, works, and writings of Dr. José Rizal — particularly his novels Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo — as part of the curriculum in all public and private schools, colleges, and universities in the country.
The bill was authored by Senator Claro M. Recto, one of the Philippines’ most prominent nationalists and intellectuals. It was designed to promote patriotism and instill in Filipino youth a deeper understanding of Rizal’s ideals and the country’s history under colonial rule.
Senate Endorsement on May 2, 1956
After its passage in the House of Representatives, House Bill No. 5561 was transmitted to the Senate of the Philippines for concurrence. On May 2, 1956, the Senate endorsed the bill in its entirety, without any amendments.
This endorsement was a landmark moment because it demonstrated full legislative consensus on the importance of national hero Dr. José Rizal’s role in Philippine education. The Senate's decision to pass the bill without changes signaled strong bipartisan support and recognition of Rizal's unifying legacy.
From House Bill No. 5561 to Republic Act No. 1425
Following its endorsement by both houses of Congress, House Bill No. 5561 became Republic Act No. 1425, commonly known as the Rizal Law, when it was signed into law by President Ramon Magsaysay on June 12, 1956.
The Rizal Law mandates all educational institutions in the Philippines to offer courses on the life, works, and writings of José Rizal, especially his two novels. It also requires that adequate numbers of copies of these books be made available in school libraries and encourages translations in major Philippine languages.
Historical and Cultural Significance
The Senate's unaltered endorsement of House Bill No. 5561 is particularly significant in light of the fierce opposition the bill faced from conservative and religious groups, particularly the Catholic Church. Despite attempts to block its passage or water down its provisions, the Senate’s final action showed a firm commitment to Rizal’s role in shaping Filipino identity and values.
This event also marked a defining moment in the country’s post-colonial legislative history — one where the importance of critical thinking, nationalism, and historical awareness took precedence over religious and ideological objections.
Conclusion
To directly answer the question: The Senate of the Philippines was the legislative body that endorsed House Bill No. 5561 without alterations on May 2, 1956. This pivotal act led to the creation of Republic Act No. 1425, better known as the Rizal Law, a cornerstone of civic and historical education in the Philippines today.
