Requirements for Knighthood

When accepted, the Knights are classified into five degrees for individuals with the necessary qualifications.

First Degree

Any person of legal age, good moral character, and reputation, who believes in Dr. Jose Rizal, is willing to learn about him, and follows his teachings, is eligible for admission to the First Degree. Once admitted into the First-Degree rank Knight of Rizal (KR) of the Order, he joins not just a purely private corporation but a public corporation ("a body corporate and politic") chartered under Republic Act 646 of the Philippines.

He, therefore, occupies a unique and enviable position, always to be remembered because of both personal and corporate responsibilities to be exemplars of the teachings and examples of Dr. Rizal.

Second Degree

To be elevated to the Second-Degree rank Knight Officer of Rizal (KOR), the member must have served at least one (1) year in the Order, is recommended by the concerned Chapter Prefectural Tribunal to the concerned Chapter Council, and the Supreme Council approves the endorsement.

Third Degree

Any person who is not a member of the Order but who has distinguished himself through meritorious service that has enhanced the objectives of the Order may be exalted as KCR upon a written recommendation to the Chapter Prefectural Tribunal and approval of the Supreme Council.

An Honorary KCR (KCR a.h.) degree of knighthood can also be bestowed on non-members of the Order who have done exemplary service to the nation or the Order.

Fourth Degree

Still another criterion for conferment of the KGOR is a knight who has received recognitions and other distinguished service medals and awards from the Order.

An Honorary KGOR (KGOR a.h.) degree can also be bestowed on non­members of the Order who have done exemplary service to the nation or to the Order.

Fifth Degree

For other Knights to qualify, they should at least have been previously conferred the KGOR.

The KGCR can also be conferred to those who have performed outstanding achievements to the Order, the country, or humanity in promoting Rizalian values and principles.

An Honorary KGCR (KGCR a.h.) degree can also be bestowed on non­members of the Order who have done exemplary service to the nation or the Order. The Supreme Council confers the KGCR at a Regular or Special General Assembly convened for such purpose.