Censorship and Suppression of Writings: Rizal's writings, particularly his novels "Noli Me Tangere" and "El Filibusterismo," were subjected to strict censorship by the Spanish authorities. These works, which exposed the abuses and injustices of Spanish colonial rule, were considered subversive and were banned from circulation in the Philippines.
Exile to Dapitan: In 1896, following the Philippine Revolution, Rizal was arrested by Spanish authorities and sent into exile in Dapitan, a remote town in Mindanao. He spent four years in exile, where his movements and activities were closely monitored. Despite the restrictions, he continued to engage in scientific research, medical practice, and community development projects.
Execution: Rizal's execution was not a direct consequence of his writings or activism but was a result of his involvement in the Philippine Revolution. After the outbreak of the revolution, Rizal returned to the Philippines in 1896, aiming to mediate between the Spanish authorities and the Filipino revolutionaries. However, he was arrested upon arrival and was falsely accused of being a leader of the revolution. Following a military trial, he was sentenced to death and executed by firing squad on December 30, 1896, in Manila.
While Rizal did not face immediate punishment for his writings, his ideas and influence played a significant role in inspiring and uniting Filipinos in their quest for independence. His works and martyrdom became rallying points for the Philippine nationalist movement, eventually leading to the country's liberation from Spanish rule in 1898.