Why Jose Rizal named protacio?

Answer 1

José's father Francisco

adopted the surname "Rizal" (originally Ricial,

the green of young growth

or

green fields

), which was suggested to him by a provincial governor, or as José had described him, "a friend of the family". However, the name change caused confusion in the business affairs of Francisco, most of which were begun under the old name. After a few years, he settled on the name "Rizal Mercado" as a compromise, but usually just used the original surname "Mercado".

Answer 2

Jose Rizal's full name was Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado y Alonso Realonda. He was given the name Protacio after Saint Protacio. It was a common practice during Rizal's time to include a saint's name in one's full name, signifying religious devotion and reverence.