It was signed into law by President Ramon Magsaysay on June 12, 1956.
While Recto authored the law, it was a culmination of efforts from various individuals and groups who advocated for the inclusion of Rizal's works in the educational curriculum. These included:
* Senator Jose P. Laurel, who introduced a similar bill in 1937.
* The Rizal Centennial Commission, which pushed for the law's passage in the 1950s.
* Various civic and educational organizations, who lobbied for its adoption.
So, while Recto is credited as the author, it was truly a collective effort to ensure the legacy of Jose Rizal was enshrined in Philippine law.