It’s another win for Filipinos, as the Philippine National Hero Jose Rizal, is now a playable character in the upcoming instalment of the strategy game, Civilization VII!

Rizal will officially be joining the other few playable historical leaders in the upcoming Sid Meier’s Civilization VII video game, alongside other historical leaders like: Catherine the Great, Benjamin Franklin, Amina, and many others.

“Long regarded as a hero of the Philippines, José Rizal was a passionate defender of the dignity and autonomy of Filipinos. He first gained his reputation as a political activist in Europe, criticizing the Spanish rule of his homeland, and though he advocated for peaceful reform and equal rights, Rizal was eventually tried and executed by the Spanish,” Civilization VII’s official website indicated.

“Yet his revolutionary spirit could not be contained, and has inspired Filipinos ever since,” it added.

As a leader in the game, Rizal’s characteristics and abilities center on diplomatic ties. Under the game, his agenda is labeled as “Kapwa,” which allows Rizal to “Increase Relationship by a Medium Amount for the player with the most active Endeavors started. Decrease Relationship by a Medium Amount for the player with the most active Sanctions started. If there is a tie between the players with the most active Endeavors or Sanctions, then Increase or Decrease Relationship by a Small Amount accordingly.”

Based on his prolific skill in writing, Rizal will possess an ability called “Pambansang Bayani,” where players can gain rewards from Narrative Events, including an additional Culture and Gold per Age.

Although Rizal is now a playable leader in the game, players will be using him to lead other civilizations, as there is currently no Philippine civilization in the game.