Why is Jose Rizal considered a national hero in the Philippines?

José Rizal is considered a national hero in the Philippines because he was a key figure in the Philippine nationalist movement. A physician and writer, Rizal used his novels, such as Noli me tángere and El filibusterismo, to expose the injustices of Spanish colonial rule. Although he advocated for reform rather than outright independence, his execution by the Spanish in 1896 served as a powerful catalyst, uniting Filipinos and inspiring the Philippine Revolution. His death is commemorated annually on Rizal Day, December 30th.123