José Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda (1861-1896) was a Filipino writer, physician, and revolutionary who became a national hero of the Philippines. He was born in Calamba, Laguna, and studied medicine in Spain, where he also became involved in political activities. He wrote two novels, "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," which criticized Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines and inspired the Philippine Revolution. Rizal was captured by the Spanish authorities and executed by firing squad in Manila on December 30, 1896. He is considered a national hero for his writings, his work for the independence of the Philippines, and his belief in non-violent resistance.