"To the Filipino Youth" (A La Juventud Filipina)

• "To the Filipino Youth" is a poem written by Jose Rizal in 1879 when he was only eighteen years old. He submitted it to a literary contest held by the Liceo Artistico-Literario (Artistic- Literary Lyceum) of Manila and won first prize. The poem is celebrated for its flawless form and nationalistic message, urging Filipino youth to rise and embrace their role as the hope of the nation. It is recognized as a classical piece of Philippine literature, praised for its use of the Spanish language and its inspiring call to action.
• Key Themes:

  • Empowerment of Youth: Rizal calls on the Filipino youth to take pride in themselves and their abilities.
  • Nationalism: The poem encourages young Filipinos to rise above indolence and work for the betterment of the country.
  • Role of Education: Emphasis on the importance of art and science in liberating and advancing the nation.
  • Hope and Inspiration: The youth are seen as the bright future and hope of the fatherland.
• Call to Youth

  • Rizal urges the youth to hold their heads high and show their grace and potential as the hope of the nation.
• Inspiration and Genius

  • He invites the spirit of genius to inspire the youth, lifting their minds to higher levels and freeing them from mental chains.
• Art and Science

  • The poem highlights the power of art and science in the fight for progress, encouraging young Filipinos to use their talents and intelligence to improve their country.
• Recognition by Spain

  • Rizal acknowledges the influence of Spanish culture and education, suggesting that the Filipino youth can achieve greatness by combining their native talents with the knowledge and skills acquired through education.
• Call to Action


  He encourages the youth to aspire to greatness, spread their fame, and contribute to the world, thereby bringing honor to the Philippines.
• Celebration of the Future

  • The poem ends with a hopeful vision for the Philippines, blessed with opportunity and fortune, urging the youth to seize the moment and make the most of their potential.
• • Stanza 1: Encourages the youth to show their grace and potential, as they are the hope of the nation.

  • Stanza 2-3: Calls for inspiration from genius to elevate their minds and free their spirits through art and science.

  • Stanza 4: Recognizes the contribution of Spanish education and culture to the development of Filipino talents.

  • Stanza 5-6: Motivates the youth to aim for greatness and make their mark in the world, bringing pride to the Philippines.

  • Stanza 7: Concludes with a hopeful vision for the Philippines, urging the youth to embrace the opportunities before them.
• "To the Filipino Youth" is an inspiring and empowering poem that calls on young Filipinos to recognize their potential, embrace education and art, and work towards the betterment of their country. It remains a timeless message of hope and nationalism, celebrating the youth as the future and the pride of the Philippines.