Patrick John S.

Beleno
Silhouette of a Filipina
- believed to be Maria Clara or as the "Inang Bayan" to whom Rizal dictates the novel

Cross/Crucifix
- represents the Catholic faith as it rises above Inang Bayan and Filipinos (shows dominance)
- it also symbolizes sufferings and death

Feet
- it symbolizes the power of the friars
- it is placed on the base of the triangle (foundation) because without friars, the Filipinos cannot
stand on their own

Hairy Legs
- it symbolizes the Legend of the Wolf
- the wolf shape shifts just like how friars hide their true nature and character

Helmet of a Guardia Civil

- it represents the arrogance of those in authority

Pomelo Blossoms & Laurel Leaves

- they represent faith, honor and fidelity, which are the values Rizal aspires to be embodied by
Filipinos
- pomelos are used to scent their air commonly during prayers and cleansing rituals
- laurel leaves are used as crowns during Greek Olympics for honoring the best

Burning Torch
- refers to the Olympic torch
- pertains to the awakening of Filipino consciousness
- it also sheds light to the text of the manuscript

Sunflower
- it symbolizes a new beginning
- it is compared to the happiness of which appears to be always bowing down

Chain
- it symbolizes slavery and imprisonment

Bamboo Stalks
- it represents Filipino resiliency
- despite the sufferings, Filipinos can still stand tall and firm

Rizal's Signature
- it shows that Rizal experienced and witnessed the ills and abuses that happened during his time

Whip
- it represents the abuses and cruelties done by the Spaniards and friars as depicted in the novel