Prelude

Deconstruction, a critical approach introduced by Jacques Derrida is a way of questioning the idea that there is only one fixed and stable truth. It examines how meanings are formed and reveals that what people accept as “truth” is often shaped by interpretations, gaps, and contradictions. Instead of simply accepting ideas as complete and certain, deconstruction breaks them down to show that meaning is not permanent, but complex and open to different readings.

This approach becomes important when examining historical figures like Jose Rizal, who is widely recognized as the Philippine national hero because of his writings and his role in awakening Filipino nationalism. Rizal is often remembered as intelligent, brave, and heroic, but this image is based on historical narratives that were constructed and interpreted over time.

“Si Rizal (parang) piso. Kahit laging devalued, number 1 pa rin.” What the line dismantles is the assumption that reverence equals understanding. Rizal becomes a flattened icon, easy to spend, easy to invoke, but rarely examined in depth. He is “number one” not because he is fully understood, but because he is the most usable.

This is what the film explores. The film follows two filmmakers attempting to create a movie about Rizal, expecting to present a clear and heroic story. However, as they research his life through historians and historical records, they encounter contradictions, missing details, and conflicting perspectives, especially regarding his personal decisions and retraction.

References:

Mike de Leon, Bayaning Third World (2000)

Lois Tyson, “Deconstructive criticism,” Critical Theory Today: A User Friendly Guide. New York: Routledge, 2006. 249-280. 

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Biag ni Lam-ang

The "Biag ni Lam-ang" is an epic story of the Ilocano people from the Ilocos region of the Philippines. It was initially passed down orally from generation to generation and was eventually written down by Pedro Bucaneg, a Filipino poet known as the "Father of Ilocano literature," around 1640. Bucaneg's contribution to Ilocano literature is immeasurable, as he played a crucial role in preserving this rich narrative for future generations. This analysis explores this epic's historical, mythical, and cultural significance, focusing on Bucaneg's invaluable contribution.

The epic "Biag ni Lam-ang" provides insightful learnings about the culture of the Ilokanos. From birth, Lam-Ang's unique ability to speak sets him apart and establishes him as the story's protagonist. Animals with supernatural abilities symbolize the significant role of nature in the narrative. His mother's extraordinary capacity to mother him embodies a mother's selfless and unwavering love for her child.

The gender roles depicted in the epic are still seen today, with Namongan fulfilling the caretaker role while Lam-Ang's father worked outside the household. Ines Kannoyan, on the other hand, is portrayed as a woman with multiple suitors, each required to meet specific standards, while Lam-Ang, as the suitor, must prove his worthiness. These portrayals reflect the enduring nature of traditional gender roles within the Ilocano culture.

The epic also delves into the theme of the environment, highlighting its dual nature as both beneficial and perilous. Thus, the Ilocanos believe in supernatural forces in nature in the framework of their culture. Furthermore, Lam-ang's father's bravery is exemplified as he seeks vengeance for his father's death, facing and defeating the men from the Igorot tribe single-handedly.

The epic also emphasizes the value of friendship within the community, portrayed through the interdependence between the rooster, Ines Kannoyan, and the dog, who worked together to bring "Lam-ang ba" k to life. These instances underscore the significance of friendship and camaraderie in Ilocano society.

Additionally, the story interweaves influences of Spanish colonization, such as the introduction of superstitions, baptism, and marriage under Christian sacraments. The introduction of Spanish colonization influenced the portrayal of superstitions, baptism, and marriage under Christian sacraments in the epic "Biag ni Lam-ang" by integrating these elements into the narrative, reflecting the impact of Spanish influence on the traditional beliefs and practices of the Ilocano people. Furthermore, echoes of Hindu epics like the Mahabharata and Ramayana are evident in the portrayal of principles such as the opposition to wrongdoers and the reverence for family.

"Biag ni Lam-ang" beautifully encapsulates Ilocano traditions, including courtship and the significance of dowry. Over time, it has evolved into a story that imparts profound lessons about overcoming life's challenges. The epic serves as a valuable repository of Ilocano cultural practices, contributing significantly to preserving this rich heritage in the modern era. The recording of "Biag ni Lam-ang" in written form contributed to its pivotal role during the Spanish Colonial period by preserving and promoting Ilocano cultural heritage and literature, providing a platform for disseminating indigenous narratives and traditions despite the influence of Spanish colonization. Moreover, its status as the first Ilocano epic to be recorded in written form played a pivotal role during the Spanish Colonial period, firmly cementing its place in literary history. The recording of "Biag ni Lam-ang" in written form contributed to its pivotal role during the Spanish Colonial period by preserving and promoting Ilocano cultural heritage and literature, providing a platform for disseminating indigenous narratives and traditions despite the influence of Spanish colonization.