A partnership to translate Dr. José Rizal’s iconic 1887 novel Noli Me Tangere into Arabic has launched. The National Commission for Culture and the Arts (NCCA), National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), and Philippine Embassy in Baghdad signed a memorandum of agreement for the project on February 9 at the NHCP headquarters in Ermita, Manila. The effort, supported by the Department of Foreign Affairs–Office of Cultural Diplomacy, aims to bring Rizal’s classic to Arabic-speaking audiences.

“This edition is intended for readers from Arabic-speaking nations,” said NHCP Chairman Regalado Trota José Jr. “Although a work of fiction, Rizal’s novel powerfully captures the Philippines’ aspirations for equality and freedom during the Spanish colonial era.” Originally written in Spanish, Noli Me Tangere is a cornerstone of Philippine literature and nationalism, highlighting social injustices under Spanish rule.

The event also marked the launch of Historia Obscura: The Philippines in the 16th and 17th Century in Portuguese Sources, two volumes compiled by international scholars. The books gather rare Portuguese archival documents to illuminate lesser-known phases of early Philippine history. José emphasized their value: “These records are made available to the public, particularly scholars and students of history.”

Both projects align with Philippine cultural initiatives, including the 2030 Year of Philippine Muslim History and Heritage and the 2026 Year of Philippine Diplomatic History and Diaspora. Attendees included representatives from Libya, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Portugal, and academic institutions like the University of the Philippines and National Library of the Philippines.

The translation and research efforts aim to expand global understanding of Philippine history, foster cultural exchange, and highlight the nation’s rich heritage.