The passage of the Rizal Law aimed to combat the growing lack of nationalism and historical consciousness among Filipinos, especially the youth.

More specifically, it sought to counteract attitudes such as:

  • Indifference or apathy toward Philippine history and national heroes.
  • Colonial mentality (looking down on what is Filipino and admiring what is foreign).
  • Weak love of country and low sense of civic duty or responsibility as citizens.

By mandating the study of Rizal’s life and works, the law tried to replace these with patriotism, pride in being Filipino, and active concern for the nation.

In short: It was passed to fight apathy and colonial mentality, and to rebuild a strong, conscious sense of Filipino identity and nationalism.