READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

History - is the study of the past, specifically - History deals with man's struggle
the people, society, events and the problems through the ages. History is not
of the past. static. By selecting "innumerable
biographies" and presenting their
Teaches us what it means to be human - lives in the appropriate social context
highlighting the great achievements and and the ideas in the human context,
disastrous errors of the human race. we understand the sweep of events.
It traces the fascinating story of how
Teaches us through example - offering man has developed through the
hints about how we can better organize and ages, how man has studied to use
manage our society for the benefit of all. and control his environment and how
the present.
Napoleon Bonaparte
“ History is written by the winner “ 3. History is concerned with man in time
- It deals with a series of events and
Thomasites - first ever educator in the each event occurs at a given point
Philippines in time. Human history, in fact, is the
process of human development in
Michael Crichton time. It is time which affords a
“ If you don't know history, then you don't perspective to events and lends a
know anything. You are a leaf that doesn't charm that brightens up the past.
know it is a part of a tree "
4. History is concerned with man in
George Santayana space.
" Those who cannot remember the past are - The interaction of man on
condemned to repeat it “ environment and vice-versa is a
dynamic one. History describes
Mahatma Gandhi about nations and human activities in
" If we are to make progress, we must not the context of their physical and
repeat history but make new history “ geographical environment. Out of this
arise the varied trends in the political,
NATURE OF HISTORY social, economic and cultural
spheres of man's activities and
1. A study of the present in the light of achievements.
the past.
- The present has evolved out of the 5. Objective Record Of Happenings.
past. Modern history enables us to - every precaution is taken to base
understand how society has come to the data on original sources and
its present form so that one may make them free from subjective
intelligently interpret the sequence of interpretation. It helps in clear
events. The causal relationships understanding of the past and
between the selected happenings are enables us to take well informed
unearthed that help in revealing the decisions.
nature of happenings and framing of
general laws.
6. Multsided
2. History is the study of man. - All aspects of the life of a social
group are closely interrelated and

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historical happenings cover all these - According to modern concepts,

aspects of life, not limited only to the history is not confined to one
political aspect that had so long period or country or nation. It also
dominated history. deals with all aspects of human
life-political, social,economic,
7. History is a dialogue between the religious, literary, aesthetic and
events of the past and progressively physical, giving a clear sense of
emerging future ends. world unity and world citizenship.
- The historian's interpretation of
the past, his selection of thé PRIMARY SOURCES - Is immediate,
significant and the relevant events, first-hand accounts of a topic, from people
evolves with the progressive who had a direct connection with it, which is
emergence of new goals.The general original and unfiltered information.
laws regulating historical happenings
may not be considered Types of Primary Sources
enough;attempts have to be made to ● Autobiographies - One account of a
predict future happenings on the person's life written by that person.
basis of the laws. ● Memoir - History or record
composed from personal observation
8. Not only narration but also analysis. and experience. (La Revolucion
- The selected happenings are not Filipina by Apolinario Mabini)
merely narrated; the causal ● Diary - a type of autobiographical
relationships between them are writing which is a regularly kept
properly unearthed. The tracing of record of the diarist’s act and
these relationships lead to the reflections
development of general laws that are ● Personal letters - a type of informal
also compared and contrasted with composition that usually concerns
similar happenings in other social personal matter and is sent from one
groups to improve the reliability and individual to another.
validity of these laws. ● Correspondences - a body of letter
or communication.
9. Continuity and coherence are the ● Interviews - a conversation where
necessary requisites of history. questions are asked and answers are
- History carries the burden of given.
human progress as it is passed ● Survey - a list of questions aimed of
down from generation to extracting specific data from a
generation from society to society, particular group of people.
justifying the essence of ● Fieldworks/Field researches - the
continuity. collection of information outside a
laboratory, library, or workplace
10. Relevant settings.
- In the study of history only those ● Photographs and posters - often
events are included which are considered primary sources because
relevant to the understanding of they can illustrate past events as
the present life. they happened.
● Work of art and Literature -
11. Comprehensiveness examples include painting and
drawing.

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● Speeches and oral histories - is a ● Best people view of history - Only

first-hand memory or an account the best race, the elites, and the
from primary witnesses. ruling class make history.
● Ideas or great mind view of history
SECONDARY SOURCES - created by - the driving force of history is the
someone who was not a direct witness to people’s idea. “Reason governs the
an event, but who obtained descriptions World"
of an event from someone else. ● Human nature view of history -
history is determined by the qualities
Types of Secondary Sources of human
● Bibliographies - an organized list of ● Economic view of history - the
sources each of which is followed by proponent of this theory is Karl Marx,
a brief note or annotation. which is that economic factors are
● Biographical Works - a description the determinant of history.
of a real person’s life, including ● Gender history - looks from the past
factual details as well as stories from on the perspective of gender.
the person’s life (The Father of ● Post-modern view of history - it
Philippines History) views history as “what we make of it"
● Periodicals - Newspaper,
Magazines, and journal. ● 5 other theories that attempt to
● Literature review and review of explain history:
article - Examples are film reviews 1. Geographic factor
and book reviews. 2. Wars
3. Religion
RULES ON HOW TO VERIFY HISTORICAL 4. Race
SOURCES: 5. Climate
1. Time and place - the closer in time
of place a source and its creator METHODOLOGY
were to an event in the oast, the ● Historical research - the techniques
better the source will be. and guidelines by which historians
2. Bias - every source is biased in use sources and evidences to
some ways. Documents tell us only research and then to write histories in
what the creator of the document the form of accounts of the past
thought happened or perhaps only ● Purpose of historical research - to
what the creator wants us to think describe and examine events of the
happened. Therefore m, compare past to understand the present and
and analyze sources. anticipate potential future effects.

THEORIES OF HISTORY STEPS IN CONDUCTING HISTORICAL

● Cyclical view of history - history RESEARCH
undergoes recurring cycles. 1. Identify a topic/subject and define
● Linear view of history - history is problems or hypotheses to be
progressive and moving forward. investigated.
● Great God view of history - history 2. Research for sources of data and
based on theological theories. other relevant source materials.
● Great man view of history - 3. Summarizing and evaluating the
dominant personalities determine the sources, where the researcher is
course of history. able to locate.

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4. Analyzing, synthesizing and CREATION OF THE FIRST PHILIPPINES

interpreting the evidence obtained NATIONAL FLAG
and then drawing conclusions about
the problem or hypotheses. ● Historical origin and design
distribution:
CONTROVERSIES IN THE - Emilio Aguinaldo: Attributed
with conceptualizing the
PHILIPPINES
Philippine flag in 1897.
- Marcela Agoncillo, Lorenza
1. CONTROVERSY OF THE Agoncillo, Delfina Herbosa
PHILIPPINES FLAG de Natividad: Sewed the
flag.
● FLAGS - are powerful - Debate: Some historians
symbols that embody a suggest other revolutionaries
nation's beliefs, values, and and expatriates in Hong
history. Which also serves as Kong may have influenced
a unifying force, especially the design.
during times of struggle and
uncertainty. The Philippine ● Potential influences:
flag has followed this pattern - Influences from Cuban and
since the Philippine American flags
Revolution of 1896 that - Similarity between Cuban
mirrors the nation's journey and Philippine flags
toward independence and - Speculation: Philippine flag
identity. modeled after Cuba's
independence struggle
● THE FLAG LAW OF 1907 - - Broader movement for
Under American colonial rule, freedom in colonized nations
mutual distrust between - Argument: Philippine flag as
Filipinos and Americans led to primarily a Filipino symbol.
the Flag Law of 1907, which
banned Filipinos from
displaying their national
flag, even within their homes.
Many Filipinos saw this law
as an infringement of their CONTROVERSY OF THE DESIGN AND
freedom of expression. SYMBOLISM OF THE PHILIPPINE FLAG.
Efforts to repeal the law were ● Much of the commonly accepted
unsuccessful until 1919, evidence relies on anecdotal
when Senate Bill No. 1, sources. This is due to the loss of
sponsored by Senator the first Philippine flag, and the lack
Rafael Palma, was of actual flags dating back to the
approved, leading to the proclamation of Philippine
repeal of the Flag Law with independence and the subsequent
Act No. 2871 on October 24, Filipino-American War (known as the
1919. 'Philippine Insurrection' in
American history.

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- House Bill No. 7725,

proposed by
Representative Sultan
Omar Dianalan, suggested
adding a ninth ray to the sun.
- The ninth ray was meant to
honor Muslim Filipinos,
particularly the Moro people
of Mindanao, for their
resistance to colonial rule.
- Another proposal suggested
adding a crescent to the
flag to recognize the
pre-colonial Muslim influence.
However, Historian Teodoro Agoncillo
noted that Aguinaldo's intent for the eight
1. The Eight-Rayed Sun - The golden rays was to represent the provinces that
sun with eight rays is one of the most first fought against Spain, and that one of
significant symbols on the flag. Each the three stars already symbolized
ray is said to represent the eight Mindanao and the Muslim population.
provinces that first revolted against ● The proposal for a ninth ray and a
Spanish rule: Manila, Cavite, crescent has drawn support and
Bulacan, Pampanga, Nueva Ecija, opposition:
Tarlac, Laguna, and Batangas. - Supporters believe it
- DEBATE : Cebu and Iloilo recognizes the role of Muslim
are considered for Filipinos in the fight for
inclusion because they also independence, making the
played significant roles in the flag more inclusive.
Philippine revolution against - Opponents argue that
Spanish rule. While the eight changing the design could
provinces symbolized by the diminish the historical
sun were the first to revolt, significance, as the eight rays
Cebu and Iloilo had notable already represent the broader
revolutionary movements revolutionary spirit.
and resistance efforts. The
exclusion of these regions 3. The Three Stars :
has sparked debate, with - three five-pointed stars on the
some arguing that the sun Philippine flag represent the
should represent a broader main geographical regions:
range of areas that Luzon, Visayas, and
contributed to the struggle for Mindanao.
independence. ● Critique: The Visayas star does not
2. Proposals for a Ninth Ray and The adequately represent the central
Crescent: and southern parts of the
- In the 1970s, there were Philippines. It overlooks the
proposals for changes to the Muslim-majority areas in Mindanao,
Philippine flag. which have a distinct history of
resistance against colonization.

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● Suggestions: Include clearer

references to the Sulu Archipelago The incorrect flag display sparked strong
and other significant regions in reactions from the Filipino public. The flag is
Philippine history related to resisting central to the nation's identity and values,
foreign domination. and its misrepresentation was viewed as
disrespectful. Many citizens expressed
4. Cultural and Regional concern that the improper display could
Representation: convey unintended messages about the
- The flag has faced criticism country’s current state, leading to potential
for being too Luzon-centric. embarrassment or misunderstanding.
- Many symbols, such as the
eight rays of the sun, are
linked to events that DEBATE ON THE SHADE OF BLUE :
occurred in Luzon. ● The repeal of the Flag Law led to
- This has sparked debates debates over the flag's blue shade.
about the flag's ability to ● Advocates were divided between sky
represent the diversity of the blue and navy blue.
country's various regions and ● Emilio Aguinaldo described the
peoples. blue as "bughaw" (sky blue) in an
- Advocates from Mindanao interview before his death.
and the Bangsamoro region
argue that the flag does not
adequately reflect their
identity, culture, or history.
- There is a call for the
addition of symbols or
stars to represent
marginalized communities,
including Muslim Filipinos The repeal of the Flag Law of 1907 led to
and indigenous. celebration among Filipinos:
● This repeal sparked a controversy
MANUFACTURING ERRORS : regarding the true color of the flag's
● Philippine Flag: A significant blue field.
national symbol with specific display ● Studies suggested the discrepancy in
guidelines. A recent controversy blue shades was due to hasty
arose when flags were found with the preparations for Flag Day on
red and blue colors incorrectly March 26, 1920, after the repeal.
positioned. This report outlines the ● The quartermaster ran out of light
issue, its implications, and the blue cloth and used dark blue
measures taken to address the instead, similar to the American flag.
situation.
Specification of the Blue color of the
original flag:
● Emilio Aguinaldo, in an interview
with historian Teodoro Agoncillo
before his death, specified that the
blue color of the Philippine flag is

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"bughaw," not azul oscuro or azul Daughter of the flag-maker:

marino.
● Juan Luna's painting from May 21, ● Marcela Agoncillo, daughter of the
1899, illustrated the flag in "China flag-maker, contended it was not sky
blue." blue or light blue but dark blue.
● Mariano Ponce described the flag's ● She argued that any error in the
blue in a letter to Ferdinand flag's color should be preserved, as it
Blumentritt as "as blue as the sky," was "consecrated and honored by
symbolizing hope. the people."
● Salvador Vivencio del Rosario ● Changing the flag's color would
supported this in his October 1899 constitute a violation of the law.
article "La Bandera de la Patria,"
referring to the color as "color This debate continued until 1985, when
celeste" (color of the sky). President Ferdinand Marcos issued
● In 1943, during the inauguration of Executive Order No. 1010, establishing
the Japanese-sponsored Republic, Cable No. 80173 as the official shade of
the Philippine flag was bright royal blue—lighter than navy blue but darker than
blue. sky blue (Presidential Museum & Library,
n.d.).

USAGE OF THE PHILIPPINES FLAG

● Representation: The flag represents

the Philippines in formal gatherings,
government buildings, and public
holidays.
● Display: It is showcased during
formal events, athletic
competitions, and diplomatic
meetings.
● Protocol:
- Should NOT be desecrated. (Huwag
Siraan)
- Flown at half-mast in times of
sorrow.
- Blue field on top during peace; red
field on top during war.

IMPORTANT RULES OF USING THE FLAG

● The flag should NOT be displayed in

a horizontal position or hung
fastened by its fly. The fly portion
of the flag should be free to move.
● The Philippine National Flag must
NOT be smaller than the others.
The painting, titled "Souvenir de 1899," was completed by
Juan Luna on May 21, 1899, in Leitmeritz, Bohemia.
● The flag should be flown from a
staff when displayed on a float.

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● The flag should NOT be used as part badges, patches, banners and initiate
of or as a whole of a costume. awards, citations, orders or
● It should be in accordance with R.A. decorations, as may be authorized by
# 8491 s. 1998. the Congress or the Office of the
President" (Sec. 44, Ch. VI, RA
IMPORTANT RULES OF USING THE FLAG 8491).
1. Positioning with Other Flags:
When displayed with another flag on
crossed staffs, the Philippine flag 2. HENERAL LUNA’S ASSASSINATION
should be on the observer's left (its HENERAL ANTONIO LUNA :
right) and its staff should be above
the other flag's staff. Two - Full Name: Antonio Narciso
Philippine flags should not be Luna de San Pedro y Novicio
displayed this way. Ancheta
- Date of Birth: October 29,
2. Half-Mast Protocol: To symbolize 1866
mourning by flying the flag at - Date of Death: December 7,
half-mast, it must first be raised to 1899
full mast for a moment before - Place of Birth: Binondo,
being lowered. When ordered to Manila, Philippines
lower the flag, it must also be raised - Father: Joaquin Luna de San
to full mast before bringing it Pedro
down. - Mother: Laureana Novicio
Ancheta
3. Vertical Display : When displayed - Siblings: Juan Luna,
vertically, the triangle must be at Manuela Luna, Josefa Luna,
the top. The blue field should be on Joaquín Luna, Numeriana
the right in times of peace, and the Luna, Remedios Luna
red field should be on the right in
times of war. BACKGROUND:

WEARING OF THE PHILIPPINE FLAG AS ● Heneral Antonio Luna: Filipino army

COSTUME / CLOTHING : general known for his fierce
leadership during the
● The Philippine Flag and Heraldic Philippine-American War.
Code (RA 8491) prohibits using the ● Position: Succeeded Artemio
flag as part of clothing or as a Ricarte as Chief of Staff of the Armed
background for advertising. Forces of the Philippines.
● Republic Act No. 8491 - An Act ● Contributions: Significant military
Prescribing the Code of the National strategies and organization of Filipino
Flag, Anthem, Motto, Coat-of-Arms forces.
and Other Heraldic Items and ● Luna Defense Line: Established a
Devices of the Philippines tells us the strategic fortification that hindered
lawful ways of treating our flag, American troop advancement.
national anthem, official seal, other ● Elite Military Units: Created the
heraldic items which include "Luna Sharpshooters" and the Black
"appropriate coat-of-arms, Guard to enhance guerrilla tactics.
administrative seals, logo, insignia,

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● Advocacy: Promoted a disciplined France as an assistant to Dr.

army, modern military training, and Latteaux and Dr. Laffen.
the importance of military science in
warfare. PATH TO REVOLUTION
● Impact: His leadership and - Antonio Luna's Return: He became
innovations were crucial in the early chief chemist at the Municipal
resistance against American Laboratory in Manila and, with his
colonization. brother Juan, established the Sala
de Armas, a fencing club.
FAMILY BACKGROUND:
● Luna belonged to a wealthy and - Katipunan Invitation: The Luna
prominent family, with parents brothers were invited to join the
Joaquín Luna de San Pedro and Katipunan, founded by Andres
Laureana Novicio, part of the Bonifacio after Jose Rizal's
principalia, the elite ruling class banishment in 1892. They declined,
during Spanish colonial rule. Joaquín advocating for gradual reform over
was a successful merchant and violent revolution.
local official in Badoe, Ilocos Norte
before moving the family to Manila. - Arrest and Imprisonment: In
August 1896, the brothers were
EDUCATION: arrested due to the discovery of the
● At age 6, Luna learned basic Katipunan. Antonio was imprisoned
subjects from Maestro Intong and and exiled to Spain, while Juan and
memorized the Doctrina Christiana. Jose were interrogated and later
● He attended Ateneo Municipal de released. Juan leveraged his
Manila, earning a Bachelor of Arts connections to secure Antonio's
degree in 1881. release in 1897.
● Studied literature and chemistry at
University of Santo Tomas, winning - Shift in Perspective: Following his
first prize for a chemistry paper release, Antonio’s views on Spanish
titled "Two Fundamental Bodies of colonial rule changed, influenced by
Chemistry." the treatment of his family and the
● Completed his studies in pharmacy execution of Jose Rizal. He
in Barcelona, Spain, earning his subsequently studied guerrilla
license at Universidad de Barcelona warfare and military strategies
and a doctorate in pharmacy at under Gerard Leman before moving
Universidad Central de Madrid in to Hong Kong
1890.

CONTRIBUTIONS: STORYLINE:
- In 1893, he published a scientific
study on malaria titled "On Malarial ● After being released from
Pathology" and worked at the imprisonment and exile in Spain,
Pasteur Institute in Belgium and Luna traveled to Hong Kong.

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● There, he met Emilio Aguinaldo and ASSASSINATION:

other revolutionary leaders. Location and settings:
● Felipe Agoncillo introduced Luna ● On June 5, 1899, General Antonio
and provided a letter of Luna was killed in the plaza of a
recommendation. rectory in Cabanatuan, Nueva
● Luna discussed his willingness to join Ecija.
the fight for Philippine independence. ● Key Individual Involved:
● Aguinaldo, impressed by Luna's - President Emilio Aguinaldo
military education and strategic - Captain Pedro Jonalino
insights, accepted him into the - Kawit presidential bodyguard
movement. (Kawit battalion)
● This meeting laid the groundwork for - Felipe Buencamino
Luna’s promotion to general and - Doña Trininad Famy (Mother
his significant role in the of Emilio Aguinaldo)
Philippine-American War.
SEQUENCE OF EVENTS LEADING TO
EVENTS LEADING TO THE HIS DEATH:
ASSASSINATION:
PREPARATION
- The revolutionary government faced - On June 2, 1899, General Antonio
disagreements and conflicts Luna received a telegram from
among its leaders regarding President Emilio Aguinaldo ordering
strategies for achieving goals. him to go to Cabanatuan to
- Some leaders advocated for peace participate in the selection of a new
negotiations, while others insisted cabinet.
on full independence, leading to - On June 5, 1899, after three days of
tension and instability. travel, Luna arrived at the rectory of
- Personal rivalries, driven by the Cabanatuan cathedral but found
ambition, jealousy, and competition that Aguinaldo was not there.
for power, complicated the political - Instead, he was met by soldiers
landscape. whom he had previously disarmed or
- When personal issues intertwined jailed for various degrees of
with political decisions, conflicts insubordination.
intensified.
- Key events, including rumors and
misunderstandings, escalated
small disagreements into larger KILLING
conflicts within the government. - Upon entering the presidential office,
- Reports indicated that a telegram Luna found Felipe Buencamino
allegedly contained orders for the (Secretary of Foreign Affairs) instead
assassination of a leader. of President Aguinaldo.
- This message fueled suspicion and - After a heated argument, Luna left
distrust among the revolutionary the office.
leaders. - On his way out, he was attacked
- The situation escalated into a serious and shot, suffering more than 30
action, culminating in the bolo wounds.
assassination
AFTERMATH

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● AFTER KILLING - Luna was both feared and

- After the attack, Luna made his way respected for his
to the plaza but fell near the church. uncompromising discipline
- His aide, Colonel Francisco and passionate leadership.
Roman, was also killed, and both - Some were relieved by his
were buried in the churchyard. death, viewing his methods
- Another aide, Eduardo Rusca, was as too harsh.
captured and arrested. - Others saw his assassination
as a tragic loss of a patriotic
● REACTIONS FROM THE leader with the potential to
GOVERNMENT lead the Philippines to victory.
- His death caused immediate - The event fueled rumors
shockwaves within the and conspiracy theories,
revolutionary government. deepening mistrust and
- President Emilio Aguinaldo, disappointment among
despite his contentious Filipinos regarding the
relationship with Luna, integrity and unity of their
publicly expressed regret leaders.
over the assassination. ● LONG TERM CONSEQUENCE
- There were suspicions that - His death exposed internal
Aguinaldo and his allies may divisions and factionalism
have played a role in within the revolutionary
orchestrating Luna's death to government, weakening the
eliminate a rival. fight for independence.
- The disorganized and
● IMPACT ON THE MILITARY demoralized military failed to
- Luna was known for his strict resist American forces,
discipline, military leading to the establishment
strategies, and efforts to of American colonial rule in
professionalize the army. the Philippines.
- His death resulted in a - Officially, the revolutionary
significant decline in military government claimed Luna
organization and was killed due to his violent
effectiveness. behavior, framing it as
- This weakened the Filipino self-defense by Aguinaldo's
resistance against American guards.
forces. - The investigation failed to
- Luna’s death left a void that explore deeper motivations
was never adequately filled, or possible planning behind
contributing to the eventual the attack.
defeat of the Philippine - inquiry fueled suspicions
Republic in the among Luna's supporters and
Philippine-American War. the public.
- Many believed there was
● PUBLIC PERCEPTION more to the story than the
- Public reaction to Luna's official account revealed.
assassination was mixed.

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ROLE OF EMILIO AGUINALDO AND PEDRO PATERNO

OTHER POLITICAL FIGURES: ● Paterno was another key figure in
● Emilio Aguinaldo, leader of the the revolutionary government, viewed
revolutionary government and as part of the political elite that Luna
President of the First Philippine distrusted.
Republic, played a central but ● Luna's confrontational stance
controversial role in events leading toward Paterno and others who
to Luna's assassination. favored negotiations with the
● Although Aguinaldo's direct Americans heightened the political
involvement in the plot remains divide within the government.
disputed, his leadership and the
political environment he fostered AGUINALDO’S SUPPORTERS
were key factors contributing to ● Luna's assassination had the
Luna's death. backing, or at least silent approval,
● Aguinaldo and Luna had a tense of some of Aguinaldo's loyalists,
relationship, with Aguinaldo initially including members of the Kawit
admiring Luna's military skill but Battalion, who were directly involved
causing friction with other leaders. in the killing.
● Luna's growing influence and ● Luna's attempts to disarm the
criticism of actions undermining the battalion and his harsh treatment of
revolution threatened Aguinaldo's soldiers contributed to mounting
authority. tensions between him and
● Aguinaldo's dismissal of the Aguinaldo's loyal troops.
assassination and lack of thorough ● This created a volatile situation that
investigation raised suspicions of ultimately culminated in Luna's
political motives. murder.
OTHER POLITICAL FIGURES:
● Members of Aguinaldo's cabinet and THEORIST AND SPECULATION ABOUT
other military leaders were frequent MOTIVES AND CONSPIRACIES
targets of Luna's harsh criticism.
● Luna accused them of ● Elimination of a Rival: Luna was
incompetence, corruption, and likely assassinated to remove him
weakening the revolution through as a political and military rival. His
internal power struggles. rising influence and criticism of
Aguinaldo's leadership were seen as
FELIPE BUENCAMINO threats, while his push for centralized
● Felipe Buencamino, a prominent control made him unpopular among
politician in Aguinaldo's cabinet, had leaders wanting more autonomy.
a contentious relationship with Luna. ● Internal Power Struggle: His death
● Luna accused Buencamino of may have resulted from an internal
corruption and incompetence, power struggle. Luna's push for a
intensifying tensions within the unified, professional army clashed
revolutionary leadership. with regional leaders favoring
● Buencamino's ties to Aguinaldo and decentralized control, leading to
his rivalry with Luna likely contributed many enemies within the
to the political tensions surrounding government.
Luna's assassination. ● Fear of a Coup: Aguinaldo and his
supporters may have feared Luna

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was planning a coup due to his

strong personality and military
expertise, prompting concerns about
his loyalty and intentions.
● Miscommunication and Paranoia:
Miscommunication and paranoia
within the revolutionary ranks may
have also played a role. The chaotic
political environment, marked by
distrust, led some to believe Luna
was plotting against Aguinaldo,
resulting in a preemptive strike. - The monument of General Antonio
Luna in Cabanatuan City, located in
IMPACT AND LEGACY OF ANTONIO Plaza Luzero, commemorates his
LUNA 120th anniversary.
- IMPACT - The monument's design features an
● Luna's death demoralized the open space surrounding the statue,
revolutionary forces, as his which previously served as a parking
leadership and military strategies lot for churchgoers and local
were crucial for organizing the businesses.
Filipino army. - The statue depicts Luna with a
● His loss created a significant void, straight face and stern expression
weakening the resistance against while riding a horse.
American forces. - General Luna's tomb is located
● This marked a turning point in the beneath the statue, which stands as
Philippine-American War, contributing a tall, self-contained figure.
to the eventual defeat of the - The gold color of the statue is
revolutionaries. highlighted when sunlight shines on
● The assassination exposed deep it, enhancing its composition.
conflicts within the revolutionary - The design also incorporates lines
government, increasing criticism of in the casket design.
Emilio Aguinaldo's leadership.
3. EMILIO AGUINALDO A HERO OR A
- LEGACY TRAITOR.
● Despite his tragic death, General
Luna is remembered as a national "Let the stream of blood cease to flow; let
hero, symbolizing patriotism and there be an end to tears and desolation” -
military brilliance. Emilio Aguinaldo
● His unwavering dedication to
independence continues to inspire
Filipinos today.
● Luna's life and assassination have LIFE AND LEGACY OF EMILIO
been depicted in various books, AGUINALDO:
films, and cultural works, keeping ● Born on March 22, 1869 in Kawit,
his memory alive and highlighting the Cavite, Philippines
controversies surrounding his death. ● Nicknamed "Miong"
● Seventh of eight children

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

● Parents of Chinese and Tagalog actions were a crucial turning point

descent in Philippine history.
● Father, Carlos, died when Aguinaldo ● The creation of the republic was not
was nine merely symbolic; it embodied the
● Mother, Trinidad, sent him to public collective hopes of the Filipino
school in Manila people for self-determination and
● Studies at Colegio de San Juan de sovereignty.
Letran cut short due to cholera
outbreak RESISTANCE AGAINST AMERICAN
● Returned to Kawit and developed COLONIZER.
awareness of Filipino frustrations ● Aguinaldo's fight for Filipino
with Spanish colonial rule independence continued after the
defeat of Spain.
LEADERSHIP IN PHILIPPINE ● Led Filipino forces during the
REVOLUTION Philippine-American War
● Emilio Aguinaldo: Key leader in the (1899-1901) against American
Philippine Revolution (1896). attempts to control the Philippines.
● Aimed for independence from ● This war was a fierce struggle to
Spanish colonial rule. resist American colonization.
● Served as a general and the first ● Aguinaldo and his forces, though
president of the first Philippines outgunned and outnumbered,
republic, which was Asia’s first showed tremendous resilience and
constitutional republic. courage in their fight for freedom.
● Unified various revolutionary factions ● Aguinaldo was captured in 1901 and
despite internal divisions. forced to swear allegiance to the
● Led successful military United States.
campaigns, particularly in Cavite. ● His efforts during the war highlighted
● Victories included capturing several his desire to protect Filipino
Spanish garrisons, weakening independence.
Spanish control and energizing ● The decision to lay down arms after
Filipino resistance. his capture was pragmatic,
● Engaged in diplomatic efforts, considering the overwhelming
including negotiations with Spanish military superiority of American
and American officials. forces.
● Aimed to secure recognition of ● This decision did not erase his earlier
Filipino sovereignty. efforts to fight for his country's
● Culmination of Aguinaldo's freedom.
leadership: Declared Philippine ● Aguinaldo's resistance to American
independence on June 12, 1898, in colonization aligned with the same
Kawit, Cavite. revolutionary fervor that motivated
● Bold proclamation marked by the his fight against the Spanish.
raising of the Filipino flag and
playing of the national anthem. BETRAYAL: THE EXECUTION OF
● Symbolized the birth of the Filipino ANDRES BONIFACIO
republic and defiance against Many accounts of history show the conflict
centuries of colonial rule. between Aguinaldo and Bonifacio. However,
● Although the struggle for full before all the disagreements arose,
independence continued, Aguinaldo's Aguinaldo was part of the secret society

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

that Bonifacio formed, the Katipunan. The lawyer should hold the position due
local chapter of the Katipunan in Cavite was to Bonifacio's lack of education.
codenamed Sangguniang Magdalo, to ● This insult angered Bonifacio, who
which Baldomero Aguinaldo headed. declared the election invalid, citing
disorganization and fraud.
In 1896, Aguinaldo declared a new ● Reports emerged of rigged ballots
government in Cavite and created a and manipulation by Aguinaldo's
"Committee of the Revolution," which he supporters, promoting the idea that
wanted to be set up across the country. By a Caviteño, like Aguinaldo, should
doing this, he acted as if he were the lead instead of Bonifacio.
national leader of the revolution, even ● In response, Bonifacio used his
though not all of Cavite was under his authority as leader of the Katipunan
control yet. This upset the Magdiwang to reject the election results.
faction.
AGUINALDO'S ORDER TO HAVE
RUMORS AND ACCUSATIONS BONIFACIO KILLED:
- Bonifacio arrived in Cavite amidst ● In response, Aguinaldo accused
ongoing battles and found both Bonifacio of treason and ordered
factions unfriendly towards him. his arrest.
- Rumors circulated that Bonifacio was ● Bonifacio was tried in a court-martial,
unfit to lead due to his lower social found guilty, and sentenced to
status and lack of formal death.
education. ● Many view Aguinaldo's decision to
- Wealthier and better-educated Cavite execute Bonifacio as an act of
leaders believed the revolution betrayal, as Bonifacio had been one
should be led by people of their of the first to champion the
standing. revolution.
- A serious accusation against ● His execution by fellow
Bonifacio from the Caviteños was revolutionaries is seen as a political
that he was secretly negotiating move by Aguinaldo to consolidate
with the Spanish forces. power at the expense of unity within
the revolutionary movement.
● This act permanently divided the
revolutionaries and is interpreted as
Aguinaldo's betrayal of the
revolution and the cause of
Philippine independence
● Initially, Aguinaldo did not want to
execute Andres Bonifacio due to
AGUINALDO’S ALLEDGE concerns that it might divide the
MANIPULATION: revolutionaries.
● He later changed his mind under the
● Emilio Aguinaldo was elected instigation of the Magdalos.
president, while Andres Bonifacio ● Bonifacio was murdered along with
was voted as Director of the his two younger brothers, Ciriaco
Interior. and Procopio, in a forested area
● Daniel Tirona questioned Bonifacio's between the mountains of
qualifications, suggesting that a

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Nagpatong and Buntis in Filipino army are seen as actions that

Maragondon, Cavite. ultimately betrayed the revolution.
● Ka Andres endured severe violence:
he was stabbed, kicked, mauled, COMMONWEALTH (1935 - 1946): Emilio
boxed, stoned, and shot—an act of Aguinaldo vs. Manuel Quezon.
overkill by those led by Aguinaldo.
● After his death, his widow, Gregoria Manuel L. Quezon:
de Jesus, was sexually molested - Manuel L. Quezon was born on
by the same men who killed August 19, 1878, in Baler,
Bonifacio. Philippines.
● His murder is regarded as one of the - He pursued a career in law and
most heinous atrocities committed entered politics, becoming a key
against Filipino heroes. (Jimenez, leader in the fight for Philippine
2023) autonomy.
- Quezon served in the Philippine
THE DEATH OF ANTONIO LUNA Assembly and was appointed as the
● Emilio Aguinaldo is often labeled a first President of the
traitor for his alleged involvement in Commonwealth of the Philippines
the assassination of General from 1935 to 1944.
Antonio Luna, a highly effective - He advocated for a collaborative
military leader during the approach with the United States,
Philippine-American War. focusing on gradual independence
and nation-building.
LACK OF CONSEQUENCES FOR LUNA’S - Quezon is known for promoting the
KILLERS national language and
● After the assassination of General implementing social reforms.
Antonio Luna, none of the soldiers - His leadership during the
responsible were held accountable. Commonwealth era laid the
● Many of the soldiers involved were groundwork for the eventual
rewarded or promoted, fueling independence of the Philippines in
suspicions that Aguinaldo approved 1946.
or was complicit in the murder.
● This failure to punish those DIFFERENCE BETWEEN THE TWO
responsible is viewed by many ● Ideological Differences: Aguinaldo's
historians as a tacit admission of revolutionary approach
Aguinaldo's involvement in Luna's emphasized armed resistance and
assassination. immediate independence.
● In contrast, Quezon advocated for
political negotiation and gradual
self-governance under American
IMPACT ON REVOLUTION oversight.
- Aguinaldo's alleged role in the ● Institutional Support: Quezon
assassination of General Luna is one successfully built a political machine
of the key reasons why some and established the Commonwealth
consider him a traitor. While he is government, gaining legitimacy and
celebrated for his role in the fight for institutional backing.
independence, the killing of Luna and ● In contrast, Aguinaldo's revolutionary
the subsequent weakening of the government lacked formal

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

recognition and institutional - In Tejeros, Casa Hacienda, San

continuity. Francisco de Malabon, now known
● Aguinaldo embodied revolutionary as General Trias, Cavite, during the
nationalism, while Quezon Philippine Revolution against Spain.
represented a pragmatic approach
that sought to work within the WHY:
American system for eventual - The event was convened to resolve
autonomy. tensions between the two faction of
● Leadership Styles: Aguinaldo's the Katipunan-the Magdiwang, led
leadership was characterized by by Mariano Álvarez, related by
military strategies and revolutionary marriage to Andrés Bonifacio, the
fervor. leader of the Katipunan and the
● In contrast, Quezon emphasized Magdalo, led by Baldomero
political negotiation and institutional Aguinaldo and to discuss the
development. defense of Cavite against the
Spaniards during the Philippine
4. TEJEROS CONVENTION Revolution to establish a unified
CONTROVERSY revolutionary government.

Philippines Revolution (1896 - 1898) HOW:

● KKK (1892) - Kataastaasang, - The convention was initially
Kagalanggalangang Katipunan ng convened to address the growing
mga Anak ng Bayan. rift between the Magdiwang and
Magdalo factions of the Katipunan.
WHO: KATIPUNAN divided into 2 major - The meeting aimed to discuss
faction military strategies for continuing the
● Magdalo fight against Spanish forces.
- Magdalo faction led by - However, it shifted into an electoral
Baldomero Aguinaldo, the process to form a new revolutionary
cousin of Emilio Aguinaldo government.
- stand firm in the changing of
the Katipunan since it was
already discovered by the
Spaniards.
● Magdiwang
- Magdiwang faction led by
Andres Bonifacio's
brother-in-law
- stand firm that the Katipunan
should remain despite the
Spaniard having discovered 5. SA AKING MGA KABATA
it. FACTS :
● José Rizal was a skilled
WHEN AND WHERE: ophthalmologist and treated patients
- The Tejeros Convention took place in Europe. (TRUE)
on March 22, 1897
● He wrote his famous novels Noli Me
Tangere and El Filibusterismo while

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

in exile in Dapitan. (FALSE - José - • Ateneo de Manila

Rizal actually wrote Noli Me Tangere University (Bachelor of
while he was in Europe, specifically arts)
during his time in Spain, and - • University of Santo
completed it in 1887. He wrote El Tomas
Filibusterismo later, completing it in - • University of Madrid
1891, also while in Europe. Although (Medical degree)
he did spend time in Dapitan, he did - • University of
not write these novels during his exile Heidelberg, Madrid
there.) (Ophthalmology)

● Rizal founded the nonviolent reform NOTABLE WORKS

society called Liga Filipina in the ● Noli Me Tangere (The Social Cancer)
Philippines.(TRUE) 1887
● El Filibusterismo (The Reign of
● The author of the poem "Sa Aking Greed) 1891
mga Kabata" still remains as an open ● On the eve of his execution, while
mystery. (TRUE) confined in Fort Santiago, he wrote
his last book "Ultimo Adios”
● "Sa Aking mga Kabata" was ● FOUNDER : La Liga Filipina
published ten years after Rizal's
death. (TRUE) BAYBAYIN
● Baybayin: Derived from the
● Jose Rizal is the author of the poem root word baybay, meaning
"Sa Aking mga Kabata". (FALSE - "to spell."
there's a lot of evidence stating he ● First mentioned in the
didn't write it, but he was credited for Vocabulario de Lengua
it) Tagala by Pedro de San
● José Rizal was born on June 19, Buenaventura.
1861, in Calamba, Laguna. (TRUE) ● One of the earliest
dictionaries for
● He was the youngest of eleven Philippine/Tagalog.
children in his family. (FALSE - he ● Influenced by Indic and
was the seventh of eleven children in Javanese scripts.
his family.) ● Used by natives during
pre-colonial times in the
● His parents were wealthy Philippines.
landowners, and he grew up in a ● Contains three vowels: a, i/e,
privileged household. (TRUE) o/u.
● Contains 14 consonants: ba,
- • Jose Protacio Rizal ka, da/ra, ga, ha, la, ma, na,
Mercado y Alonso nga, pa, sa, ta, wa, ya.
Realonda
- • Born: June 19, 1861 SA AKING MGA KABABATA :
at Calamba Laguna Kapagka ang baya'y sadyang umiibig Sa
- • Died: December 30, kanyang salitang kaloob ng langit,Sanlang
1896 kalayaan nasa ring masapit Katulad ng
ibong nasa himpapawid.

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Pagka't ang salita'y isang kahatulan Sa ●No handwritten manuscript of the

bayan, sa nayo't mga kaharian,At ang isang poem by Rizal exists.
tao'y katulad, kabagay Ng alin mang likha ● The poem was first published in
noong kalayaan. 1906, a decade after Rizal's death,
Ang hindi magmahal sa kanyang salita by poet Hermenegildo Cruz.
Mahigit sa hayop at malansang isda,Kaya ● Cruz claimed to have received the
ang marapat pagyamaning kusa Na tulad sa poem from Gabriel Beato
inang tunay na nagpala. Francisco, who said he got it from
Ang wikang Tagalog tulad din sa Latin Sa Rizal's close friend, Saturnino
Ingles, Kastila at salitang anghel,Sapagka't Raselis, in 1884.
ang Poong maalam tumingin Ang siyang ● Rizal never referenced writing this
naggawad, nagbigay sa atin. poem in his works.
Ang salita nati'y huwad din sa iba Na may ● He also did not mention having a
alfabeto at sariling letra,Na kaya nawala'y close friend named Raselis.
dinatnan ng sigwa Ang lunday sa lawa ● Further criticism highlights the
noong dakong una. wrongful attribution of the poem to
Rizal.
ABOUT THE POEM: ● The poem is written in Tagalog and
● The poem is a nationalistic artwork uses the term "KALAYAAN."
promoting the use of Tagalog ● Rizal documented his first encounter
(Filipino) language by the Filipino with the word in Marcelo H. Del
people. Pilar's translation of his article "El
● It is also about the love of one's Amor Patrio" (Ang Pag-Ibig sa
native language. Tinubuang Lupa).
● Traditionally believed to be Jose ● In that article, Rizal saw "malaya" or
Rizal's first written Tagalog poem at "kalayaan" spelled as
the age of eight. "KALAYAHAN," which is the Tagalog
● The poem was supposedly written in equivalent of "libertad.”
1863. MOREOVER:
● Rizal's native language was
CONTROVERSY Tagalog, but he was educated in
● "SA AKING MGA KABATA" is a Spanish, starting with his mother,
poem allegedly written by Jose Rizal Teodora Alfonso.
at age eight. ● In a letter to his brother Paciano in
● It is regarded as one of Rizal's 1886, Rizal admitted difficulty in
prominent works. translating the German word
● There is no conclusive evidence "freheit" and the Spanish word
supporting Rizal's authorship of the "libertad" (meaning freedom or
poem. liberty in English).
● Strong arguments exist against his ● Rizal encountered these terms in the
authorship. story of William Tell.
● The poem includes the famous line:
"ANG HINDI MAGMAHAL SA ● The spelling of the poem raises
KANYANG SALITA MAHIGIT SA suspicions; it uses "k" and "w" to
HAYOP AT MALANSANG ISDA.” replace "c" and "u," respectively.
● Rizal, as an adult, suggested this
OWNERSHIP CONTROVERSY orthographic change.

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READING IN PHILIPPINE HISTORY

● If the poem were truly written during ● Several factors have led historians
Rizal's time, it should have followed and literary scholars to question this
the original Spanish orthography attribution:
prevalent then. ● Lack of primary evidence
● Historical context
POSSIBLE POETS ● Alternative authors
● Hermenegildo Cruz (1880 - 1943) ● No manuscript linking Rizal to the
- • Filipino writer and a poem has been identified; he was 21
trade union organizer when he first encountered the word
- • Founding member of "kalayaan.”
Union Obrera ● The poem was published ten years
Democratica Filipina after Rizal's death, raising questions
- • Became the director about its authenticity.
of the Bureau of ● Poets Hermenegildo Cruz and
Labor in 1924. Gabriel Beato Francisco have been
- • One of his famous linked to the poem, but the identity of
works includes "Kung the true author remains an open
Sino ang Kumatha mystery.
ng Florante" (On
Who Authored
Florante) 6. THE CODE OF KALANTIAW

● Gabriel Beato Francisco (1850 - ● Is a mythical legal code in the epic

1953) history Maragtas.
- • Filipino born ● It was a source of pride for the
novelist born in people of Aklan before it was
Sampaloc, Manila revealed as a hoax.
- • Author of "Ang ● A historical marker was installed in
Katipunan" the town of Batan, Aklan in 1956 with
- • Author of the first the following text:
published Tagalog ● Datu Bendehara Kalantiaw, 3rd
novel titled Chief of Panay born in Aklan,
"Cababalaghan ni P. established his government in the
Bravo" which was peninsula of Batang Aklan Sakup.
serialized in "Ang Considered the first Filipino lawgiver,
Kapatid ng Bayan” he promulgated in about 1433 a
penal code now known as Code of
Kalantiaw containing 18 articles.
● Jose Rizal has long been credited Don Marcclino Orilla of Zaragoza,
with writing this iconic Filipino poem, Spain, obtained the original
but evidence supporting his manuscript from an old chief of
authorship is increasingly Panay which was later translated into
scrutinized. Spanish by Rafael Murviedo
● The prevailing narrative is that Yzamaney.
young Rizal, at age eight,
composed this profound ode to the
Filipino language and identity.

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