Here are some key figures who championed *Noli Me Tangere*:
* José Rizal himself: As the author, Rizal was naturally the most vocal proponent of his own work. He actively engaged in debates and discussions defending the novel's message, arguing that it was a truthful depiction of Filipino society under Spanish rule.
* Members of the Propaganda Movement: The Propaganda Movement, a group of Filipino intellectuals and activists advocating for reforms in the Philippines, saw *Noli Me Tangere* as a powerful tool for their cause. They used the novel to highlight the injustices of Spanish colonial rule and to inspire Filipinos to fight for their rights.
* Filipino intellectuals and writers: Many Filipino writers and intellectuals, inspired by Rizal's work, wrote articles, poems, and essays in support of the novel and its themes. They recognized the novel's impact in raising awareness about the problems plaguing Filipino society.
* Common Filipinos: While not all Filipinos agreed with the content of the novel, many found themselves resonating with the characters and the issues raised. The novel's depiction of everyday life under colonial rule resonated with many, particularly the oppressed and marginalized.
While there wasn't a formal "defense" of *Noli Me Tangere*, the widespread support and admiration for the novel acted as a powerful counterforce to the criticism and opposition it faced. Ultimately, the novel's impact in inspiring Filipinos to fight for their rights and its enduring legacy as a cornerstone of Filipino national identity are testaments to its enduring power.