Paolo Lopez Azurin, descendant of Jose Rizal’s brother Paciano, talks to the media on Rizal Day celebrations in Manila. INQUIRER.net / Jean Mangaluz
MANILA, Philippines — The critically acclaimed “GomBurZa” film was praised by no less the great great grandson of Paciano Rizal himself, whose childhood was prominently featured in the movie.
Paolo Lopez Azurin said he was glad to see his grandfather’s character portrayed on the silver screen.
“Nakakatuwa, na malaki yung parte ng lolo ko dun na si General Paciano Rizal. Nakaka, well, nakakatuwa na nakita ko yung kabataan niya. Kasi wala masyado nasusulat sa kabataan ni Lolo Paciano,” Azurin said in a media interview at Luneta Park during the 127th death anniversary of Jose Rizal.
(It was a joy that my grandfather General Paciano Rizal had a big part. Well, I am happy to see his childhood. There is not a lot written about Lolo Paciano’s childhood.)
READ: Rizal lives on in every Filipino
While the titular characters of the movie were the martyr priests Mariano Gomes, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora, the brother of Jose Rizal, Paciano, was prominently featured. He was a student of Burgos. Paciano was also the one who took the young Jose Rizal to watch the execution of his teacher, which somehow sparked the young Rizal’s patriotism.
READ: Rizal and the enduring faith of his followers, believers
The execution of GomBurZa had a profound effect on Jose Rizal, who would dedicate the historic El Filibusterismo novel to the three priests.
“Magandang pelikula yon, para makita ng tao ulit ang pagka-Pilipino, especially ngayon Rizal Day, at ayun nakakatuwa lang na naisabuhay ulit iyon,” said Azurin.
(It is a great movie so that people could see their nationhood, especially on Rizal Day, and it was good to see that brought to life.)