Mabini's Decalogue for Filipinos

Apolinario Mabini

Sep 2022 · DigiCat

About this ebook

Mabini's Decalogue for Filipinos presents a profound ethical framework crafted by Apolinario Mabini, a pivotal figure in the Philippine Revolution. This succinct yet impactful work outlines ten guiding principles designed to inspire Filipinos toward nationhood, civic responsibility, and moral integrity. Employing a didactic literary style, Mabini's prose is infused with a sense of urgency, yet remains accessible, reflecting the tumultuous political landscape of late 19th-century Philippines. This work is not merely a personal manifesto; it resonates deeply within the broader context of nationalist literature, echoing the fervent struggles for independence and the quest for identity amidst colonial oppression. Apolinario Mabini, often referred to as the 'Brains of the Revolution,' was a blind political theorist and statesman whose experiences during the Philippine-American War deeply informed his philosophical outlook. His advocacy for education and social justice stemmed from his own challenges and aspirations for Filipino dignity and sovereignty. Mabini's intellect and unwavering commitment to his country enable him to articulate the pressing need for ethical conduct among his compatriots, drawing from both Western philosophical traditions and native values. This compelling work is an essential read for anyone seeking to understand the moral bedrock of Filipino nationalism. Readers will find in Mabini's Decalogue not only a historical artifact but a timeless call to ethical awakening. It urges contemporary Filipinos to embody the principles of justice, duty, and service, inspiring a renewed sense of purpose in their civic lives.

About the author

Apolinario Mabini, a seminal figure in Philippine history, stands tall in the annals of its struggle for sovereignty. Born on July 23, 1864, in Tanauan, Batangas, Mabini is often remembered as the 'Sublime Paralytic' and the 'Brains of the Revolution' for his indispensable role during the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule. Despite contracting polio in 1895, which left him paralyzed, Mabini's indomitable spirit continued to fuel his patriotism. He is credited with penning influential works, most notably 'Mabini's Decalogue for Filipinos,' which serves as a guideline for national conduct and patriotism. This foundational text encapsulates his vision for the Filipino youth and his deep commitment to ethical leadership and governance (Mabini, 1903). As an adviser to Emilio Aguinaldo, the first President of the Philippines, Mabini had substantial influence in shaping the fledgling government's policies and in drafting the Malolos Constitution. His profound legal and political mind, coupled with an unwavering moral compass, rendered him an iconic mentor to leaders and a bulwark of the revolutionary cause. Mabini's literary style merged articulate formal prose with the fervor of a nationalist, immersing the reader in his aspirations for a just and independent nation. Mabini's untimely death on May 13, 1903, did not diminish his legacy, which endures robustly in Philippine society, as he remains an enduring symbol of integrity and nationalism.