José Rizal
Noli Me Tangere by José Rizal is a groundbreaking Filipino novel that exposes the social injustices and corruption under Spanish colonial rule in the Philippines. The story follows Crisostomo Ibarra, a young Filipino who returns home after studying in Europe, only to find his father dead and the country oppressed by corrupt friars and officials. As Ibarra tries to reform society peacefully, he faces resistance from powerful forces, especially the manipulative friar Padre Dámasso. The novel portrays the struggles of various characters affected by colonial abuse and ultimately calls for awakening and change. It is a powerful critique of colonialism, religion, and social inequality.