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hilippine Heroes - Dr. Jose Rizal (1861 - 1898) Jose Rizal's real name was Jose Protacio Mercado Alonzo. He was born in Calamba, Laguna on June 19,1861. His parents were Don Francisco Engracio Rizal and Teodora Morales Alonzo Realonda. His lone brother Paciano was older than him. He was the 7th child in a brood of eleven. Jose used the family name Rizal in compliance with a directive issued by Governor General Claveria on November 21, 1841. As a young boy, Jose was fondly called Pepe by his parents and siblings. His mother was the first to discover his extraordinary intelligence. His mother Dona Teodora was his first mentor. Even before Jose went to study in Binan, Laguna, he already knew how to read and write. His teacher, Justiniano Cruz suggested that he pursue his studies in Manila to further cultivate his natural talent. Jose entered Ateneo de Manila University in 1872. There he registered the excellent scholastic marks. He went on to earn a Bachelor of Arts degree obtaining highest academic honors. He wasted no time in taking up Philosophy of Letters at the University of Santo Tomas as preparatory for a medical course. He was not able to finish medicine here because he left for Spain when he was only 21 years old. There he continued his studies in medicine. He stayed in Spain for three years where he finished his doctorate degree in medicine in 1885. He toured many countries in Europe and studied the different cultures and languages of each country he visited. At age 27, he already became an expert on western culture and language and was recognized as a certified linguist. It was in Germany and France where he became interested in studying ophthalmology. He made use of his knowledge in eye surgery after he successfully operated on his mother's cataract. After his medical studies, Rizal focused on the field of literature. He wrote many articles and books that depicted the cruelties suffered by Filipinos at the hands of their Spanish conquistadors. Two of his novels, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo drew so much attention. The two books bravely exposed the brutality of the Spanish colonizers to the helpless Filipinos. Many believed that the two books were the main reasons why Spanish colonizers ordered for Rizal's execution. It was during the peak of the twin novel's popularity in 1887 that Rizal decided to go back to his home country. This heightened the anger of the clergymen and Spanish authorities. Fearing for his safety, Rizal's parents asked him to go back to Europe. On his way there, he visited Japan and the United States of America. Rizal knew about the abuses committed by the Spanish colonizers to his town mates in Calamba. They were forced to pay higher taxes. Those who are not able to pay were forced to leave their homes and their lands confiscated. His own family was not spared from these abuses. His parents were also forced to vacate from their home and land. Rizal sought the help of higher Spanish authorities in Spain. He narrated all the sentiments of his countrymen and that of his town mates in Calamba. He was assured that everything will be settled but none of it was fulfilled. This angered Rizal even more and inspired him to fight fiercely for more drastic reforms for his motherland. He came back to the Philippines in June 3,1892 and formed a secret society that goes by the name "La Liga Filipina." Its prime objective was to unite the Filipinos and work for their independence. But this only made the Spanish authorities and clergy more furious. They ordered for his arrest and sent him into exile in Dapitan on December 7. 1892. Rizal's exile in Dapitan did not go to waste. He cured many sick people, performed eye surgery to half-blind folks and built school houses, which he himself taught. He also planted crops and raised farm animals, collected insects, which he studied and preserved and built irrigation systems for the rice fields. He became the savior of the needy and the sick in that remote town in Mindanao. The townsfolk learned to love him and he was treated like a real son of Dapitan. It was also in Dapitan where he met and loved Josephine Bracken. Rizal sought permission from the Spanish authorities to allow him to leave for Cuba to help cure Spanish injured Spanish forces fighting there. Cuba was under Spanish rule that time. Governor General Blanco granted Rizal's request but his enemies did not stop pressuring the Spanish government until they see Rizal dead. Rizal did not reach Cuba anymore. He was arrested and jailed at Fort Santiago in Intramuros. While in jail he continued to write subversive articles against the Spanish occupation. It was here he wrote his immortal masterpiece "Mi Ultimo Adios" (My Last Farewell). Rizal was killed by musketry. He was supposed to be shot at the back but he insisted to be shot facing his executioners because he wanted to symbolize that he did not betray his countrymen. The leader of the execution team did not agree to this. When he was about to be shot, Rizal bravely turned to the front side and faced his killers. Rizal died as a hero and martyr on December 30,1896 in Bagumbayan, now popularly known as Luneta or Rizal Park. Philippine Heroes - Gat Andres Bonifacio y de Castro (1863 - 1897)

Andres Bonifacio was born on November 30, 1863 in Tronzo, Tondo, Manila. His parents were Santiago Bonifacio and Teodora Catalina de Castro. He was named after St. Andrew the Apostle who was the patron saint of Manila. Andres had five siblings. They were Ciriaco, Procopio, Esperidiona, Troadio and Maxima. It was in the year 1877 when the family experienced so much hardship. There was a cholera outbreak in the city and a cattle disease almost wiped out the whole animal population. As if it was not enough, a killer typhoon hit their place. Life became harder for the poor like the Bonifacio's. His mother worked as a supervisor at a cigarette factory in Meisic (now Chinatown) while his father was a porter in the docks of Binondo. His father stopped working when he contracted tuberculosis. To make matters worst, even his mother contracted the disease. The years 1881-82 were one of the saddest times of their lives after their mother and father died one after the other. Andres was only 14 years old then. Being the eldest in the brood, he stopped schooling. With his brothers and sisters, they helped each

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other, earned a living by making and selling paper fans and canes. Andres also worked as a warehouse man/ clerk-messenger and sales agent of rattan products. While working, he studied the English language since already knew how to speak and write in Spanish. He bought books about The French Revolution by Robiespiere, The Wandering Jew by Eugene Sue/ Les Miserable by Victor Hugo, Noli Me Tangere and El Filibusterismo by Dr. Jose Rizal, The Ruins of Palmyras, the Holy Bible, International Law, Penal and Civil Codes, Lives of the Presidents of the United States and some of the novels Written by Alexander Dumas. Monica was the first wife of Andres. She died of leprosy. Andres fell in love again with Gregoria de Jesus who hails from Kalookan. Andres joined La Liga Filipina because of his ardent admiration of Jose Rizal. When Rizal was exiled in Dapitan, he believed that the time has come for the Filipinos to take up arms to achieve the freedom they were longing for. He wrote the essay What The Fillipinos Should Know? (Ano Ang Dapat Malaman ng mga Pilipino?) He said in the essay that Filipinos would never get a fair treatment from their Spanish colonizers. Andres, together with Ladislao Diwa, Teodoro Plata and Deodato Arellano founded the first triangle of the Katipunan on July 7, 1892. He and Gregoria got married in 1893 at the Binovndo Church barely a year after Andres founded the Katipunan. Andres and Gregoria had a son but died of smallpox. Andres and his party scaled the mountains of San Mateo and Montalban on April 12,1895 where they discovered the Makarok and Pamitihan caves. They chose Pamitinan cave as their initiation site for the would-be members of the Katipunan. Andres called a meeting among Katipunan leaders at the house of Apolonio Samson in Kangkong (Pugadlawin) on August 21. There they talked about their planned revolt. August 23,1896 would be remembered in history as the First Cry of Balintawak. It was then when Andres and other leaders of the Katipunan tore their cedulas and shouted Long Live the Philippines! They vowed to fight the Spaniards no matter what the cost. Andres and Emilio Jacinto attacked a gunpowder storehouse in San Juan del Monte (Pinaglabanan, San Juan, Metro Manila). The Spanish guards retreated. It emboldened Andres and his men. Andres, with Emilio, Guillermo Masangkay, Aurelio Tolentino, Faustino Manalac, Pedro Zabala and other Katipuneros triumphed over the enemies. Meanwhile, a major conflict was brewing between the Katipunan's Magdalo and Magdiwang groups in Cavite. They sent an invitation to their supreme leader to unite the two factions at the Imus Assemby. Nothing was achieved though. Another meeting was called in Tejeros on March 22, 1897. Aguinaldo was elected president. Andres was chosen minister of the interior. However, Daniel Tirona questioned the credibility of Bonifacio because he does not hold a law degree. Andres almost killed Tirona because he could not bear the insults he hurled at him. Andres refused to recognize the Aguinaldo government. He founded a new government that questioned the results of the Tejeros Convention. More than 40 Katipuneros signed the military agreement on March 24. Colonel Agapito Bonzon and Jose Ignacio Paua, Aguinaldo's brother-in-law arrested Bonifacio and his party on April 26,1897. They were brought to a military court headed by General Mariano Noriel. They were charged with treason and was sentenced to die. It was on May 10,1897 when Andres and his brother Procopio were brought to Mt. Buntis in Maragondon. Major Lazaro Makapagal and his men killed them. To this day, Filipinos honor Bonifacio as the true "Father of the Philippine Revolution." Philippine Heroes - Gregorio del Pilar (1875 - 1899) Gregorio del Pilar was born in Bulakan, Bulakan on November 14, 1875. The Hero of the Tirad Pass was the son of Don Fernando H. del Pilar and Felipa Sempio. Gregorio del Pilar was the youngest and the most picturesque general in the Philippine Revolutionary Forces during the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War. He studied under the tutelage of Maestro Monico. He also studied at the school of Pedro Serrano Laktaw. He went to Ateneo de Manila University after finishing his secondary education where he graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree. Gregorio came from a wealthy family but his eyes were opened from the injustices around him. Added to this were the nationalistic books and newspapers sent to him by his cousin Marcelo. He was only 19 years old when he joined the Katipunan. He became a leader of the rebellion despite his young age because of his exceptional ability and bravery. Soon, he was promoted to colonel status. At age 22, he was already a brigadier general. Gregorio and his men made an assault in the town of Bulakan to get rid of the Americans. They followed it with an attack in Quingwa (now Plaridel). They were able to win over the Americans notwithstanding their small number. The most colorful part of his life took place in Tirad Pass. Tirad Pass was the passageway to Aguinaldo's hideout. Gregorio's group was assigned to defend it. He showed his fearless character. In spite of handful followers, only 60 men. They defended Tirad Pass against the Americans contingent composed of more than 400 soldiers. A Filipino traitor showed the way to the location of the young general. The Americans gunned him down to his death. The date was December 2, 1899. Philippine Heroes - General Emilio Aguinaldo y Famy (1869 - 1964) General Emilio Aguinaldo y Famy was born on March 26,1869 in Kawit, Cavite. He was the seventh child of Carlos Aguinaldo and Trinidad Famy. He had six siblings. His first wife was Hilaria del Rosario. Maria Agoncillo was his second wife. Aguinaldo came from a wealthy family of sugar planters. He studied at Cavite and at Colegio de San Juan de Letran in Manila. At 17 he served as Cabeza de Bgrangay of their town. At 26 he was Capitan Municipal, a position equivalent to Gobernadorcillo at that time. He joined the Katipunan founded by Andres Bonifacio when the revolution erupted; He led Magdalo group, another faction of the Katipunan in Cavite and because of his excellent leadership they were able to subdue the Spaniards in the towns of Kawit, Imus and Binakayan. On March 11, 1887, an election was held at the Tejeros Convention. He was elected its president. Later on, the Spaniards decided to make peace with Aguinaldo.

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Pedro Paterno, who represented the Philippines and Governor Primo de Rivera, who represented Spain signed the 'Pact of Biak-na-Bato' on December 14, 1897. The peace agreement stipulated the promise of the Spanish authorities that there will be reform in the government and that they would send the friars and abusive,officials back to Spain. Aguinaldo thought the Spaniards were sincere so he went on self-exile at Hongkong with some of his loyal followers. The Spanish authority gave him P400,000 as war compensation. Little did he know that it was just a ploy to suppress the growing support of the people to the rebellion. Two years later, the Spanish-American War erupted. The Americans assaulted the different countries colonized by Spain. Aguinaldo decided to return to the Philippines. He brought with him the armaments and weapons he bought from the war compensation he received from the Spaniards. He was back in the country on May 19, 1898. He made a deal with Commodore George Dewey and U.S. Consul Pratt to let the American and the Filipino soldiers join forces against the Spaniards. They easily triumphed over the enemies in Luzon except Manila. Aguinaldo proclaimed the Philippine independence at his Kawit home on June 12,1898. He headed the Revolutionary Government after convening the Malolos Congress that formally approved its independence and constitution on January 21,1899. As head of the Philippine provisional government, Aguinaldo resisted American occupation. He continued to lead the struggle against the United States forces until March 23, 1901 when General Frederick Funston and his men captured him at Palanan, Isabela. In April 1901 he took an oath of allegiance to the United States and retired to private life. Aguinaldo was taken into custody in 1945, during World War II, by invading American troops and held on suspicion of collaboration with the enemy during the Japanese occupation. He was later acquitted. Aguinaldo died of heart attack on February 6,1964 in Quezon City. He was 95. Philippine Heroes - Doa Teodora Alonzo y Realonda (1827 - 1911)

Teodora Alonzo was born on November 9, 1827 in Meisik (Chinatown), Tondo, Manila. Her parents sent her to Colegio de Sta. Rosa where she studied and mastered the Spanish language. Among her many suitors, Teodora fell in love with a handsome, young man from Laguna. He was Francisco Rizal Mercado. They were blessed with 11 children. Their eldest was Paciano and the rest were Saturnina, Narcisa, Olimpia, Lucia, Maria, Concepcion, Josefa, Trinidad, Soledad (the youngest among the brood) and the greatest in the history of our Mother Land, Jose Rizal who was the seventh child in the family. As a mother, Teodora wished only the best for her children. She and Francisco sent their children to school for a brighter future. She was also their first teacher. On the other hand, Francisco had been helping compatriots who were victims of the abuses by the Spaniards. The friars and the Spanish authority got irked with his open defiance of the laws being implemented by the government in their province. They hatched up a plan to take revenge on him. The Spaniards targeted Teodora to take, vengeance at Francisco. They forced her to walk from their town in Calamba to the town of Sta. Cruz which was a lot of kilometers away. They accused Teodora of fabricated charges. They put her to jail in spite ofher innocence and even without a trial. They also ordered Francisco out of their land so Teodora bore the burden of taking care of the family. Teodora's character showed the most when the Spaniards were running after Jose. Instead of advising Jose to stop fighting against them, she became Jose's inspiration to continue his crusade for freedom. When the Americans freed the Philippines, they thought of paying her back for all her sacrifices. They offered her a lifetime pension that she refused. Teodora Alonzo passed away in the year 1911. Philippine Heroes - Father Mariano Gomez (1799-1872) Father Mariano Gomez was born in Sta. Cruz, Manila on August 2,1799 to parents Francisco Gomez and Martina Custodio. After studying at San Juan de Letran he proceeded to take up Theology at the University of Sto. Tomas. June 2, 1824 was a memorable date for him. It was on this date when he was designated as the head priest of Bacoor, Cavite, Aside from taking care of the town church's spiritual needs, he also taught the townfolks agriculture and cottage industry. He also helped in maintaining a harmonious relationship with his co-priests. He fought for the Filipino priests' rights against the abuses of the Spanish friars. The Spanish authorities got mad at him and ordered for his arrest. He was sent to jail along with Fr. Jose Burgos, Fr. Jacinto Zamora, Joaquin Pardo de Tavera and Maximo Paterno. Fr. Gomez along with Fr. Burgos and Fr. Zamora were executed on February 17,1872. They were later known as the three Filipino martyrs Gomburza. Fr. Gomez was responsible for publishing the newspaper La Verdad, meaning The Truth. This paper served as the voice of the Filipino propagandists against the Spanish colonizers. hilippine Heroes - Emilio Jacinto y Dizon (1875-1899)

Emilio Jacinto y Dizon was considered as one of the greatest military genius during his time. He was very close to Andres Bonifacio. Like Bonifacio, Emilio also comes from a poor family. He was born in Trozo, Manila on December 15,1875. His parents were Mariano Jacinto and Josefa Dizon. Despite being orphaned, he managed to send himself to Colegio de San Juan de Letran. He was also able to study law at the University of Santo Tomas although he was not able to finish it because his Spanish classmates often abused him.

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Emilio was only 19 when he joined the Katipunan. He was known as the brains of the Katipunan when it comes to military matters. His book entitled Kartilya was the one used by the Katipuneros as their guide in fighting the Spanish colonizers. It contained the constitution and by-laws ofthe Katipunan. Reading books was one of Emilio's greatest passions. One of his favorite books was the one about the French Revolution. He also has in his collection a book on how to make gunpowder and dynamite. He also learned quite a few things about the art of war, military strategies and ways of making weapons of war. Dr. Jose Rizal and Marcelo H. Del Pilar inspired him to be a good writer during his time. He used Dimes Haw as his pen name. He also wrote A la Patria, which he based from Dr. Jose Rizal's Mi Ultimo Adios. He was seriously injured in one bloody encounter that resulted to his death on April 16,1899 in Majayjay, Laguna at a young age of 24. Philippine Heroes - Cayetano Arellano (1847-1920)

Cayetano Arellano was the first Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. He was born on March 2, 1847 in Udyong, Bataan to parents Servando Cayetano and Cristina Lanzon. Cayetano was only 5 years old when he started going to Colegio de San Juan de Letran although he worked for the school in exchange for free education. Because of his natural talent, getting high grades did not come hard for him. He was selected as Mayor de Salon and Dean of San Juan de Letran. He became so popular throughout the school campus. Almost every student recognized him. After graduation, he continued his education at the University of Santo Tomas. It was here where he obtained a Bachelor's degree in Philosophy in 1862 and Theology in 1867. Although he was enrolled at the University of Santo Tomas, he chose to stay and worked at San Juan de Letran. With his academic success, he became more popular. Cayetano obtained a law degree in 1876. He became a full-fledged lawyer and established his own law office. Many wealthy and powerful people availed of his legal expertise. After some time,he went back to the University of Santo Tomas and taught Civil Law. His students were Ortigas, Osmena, Palma, Quezon, DelosSantos, among other well-known personalities. His popularity in the field of laws grew bigger. He was appointed Mahistrado Suplente in 1886 and Provincial Board Member in 1893. These positions catapulted him to become Mahistrado Suplente de laAudencia Territorial de Manila. Cayetano once served as the country's Foreign Affairs Secretary. He was also elected as Councilor of Manila in 1897. He was appointed as Chief Justice of the Supreme Court on May 29, 1899. Not long after, he was conferred with a Doctorate Degree in Law by the Yale University. Despite all of his remarkable achievements and high positions in government, Cayetano remained a humble and dignified person. He never forgot to attend mass every Sunday. Cayetano Arellano finally faced his Creator on December 23,1920. hilippine Heroes - Father Jacinto Zamora (1731 - 1763) Father Jacinto Zamora was one of the three martyr priests of the Secularization of the Filipino priests, the Gomburza. Father Jacinto Zamora was born in Pandacan, Manila on August 14, 1835. His father was Venancio Zamora. His mother was Hilaria del Rosario. It was his childhood dream to be a priest. He did everything to follow the desire of his heart. He studied well and finished his Bachelor of Arts degree in the Colegio de San Juan de Letran. He continued his studies at the University of Santo Tomas where he completed his Bachelor of Canon Laws. He took up examinations to qualify him for priesthood and passed, them with flying colors. This however did not give him the opportunity to be given permanent position by the Spanish friars. When he was transferred in Manila, he saw the unjust treatment of the Spanish friars against the Filipino priests. He pitied them that he resolved to fight for their rights. He led a campaign against the abusive Spanish friars and fought for equal rights among priests. The Filipino priests loved and admired Father Zamora. But the Spanish friars detested him. They hatched a plan to get even with him. They accused him of collaborating with the rebels who led an uprising in Cavite. Like the two other priests, Father Burgos and Father Gomez, they arrested and detained him. Father Zamora was executed by strangulation together with the two martyr priests on February 28, 1872. Philippine Heroes - Antonio Luna y Novicio (1868 - 1899)

Antonio Luna was born to parents Joaquin Luna and Laureana Novicia on October 29,1868 in Urbiztondo, Binondo, Manila. He was the younger brother of internationally famous Filipino painter Juan Luna. Antonio studied at Ateneo Municipal. He also went to the University of Santo Tomas where he took up Pharmacy. He continued his medical education at Universidad Central de Madrid in Spain. Moreover, he studied War Science in Germany. While in Spain, he met Filipino propagandists Dr. Jose Rizal, Marcelo H. Del Pilar and Graciano Lopez Jaena. This made him stopped studying medicine. Instead, he specialized in the study about military science. He also contributed articles in La Solidaridad. When he came back to the Philippines, he saw the ineptitude of the revolutionary forces. Poor training and lack of discipline was common to the Filipino soldiers. He joined the armed forces against the Americans. He trained the Filipino soldiers in scientific warfare. As a leader, he was a disciplinarian. This demoralized a lot of Filipino soldiers. He founded the Philippines' first Military Academy. When he was appointed general, he set up the Department of War in order to unite all provincial units. When rebellion erupted between the Filipinos and the Americans, he was appointed Secretary of War and Commander-in-Chief under the leadership of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo.

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His first encounter with the American forces happened in Manila. He later established a stronghold in Bulacan. He was gunned down in Cabanatuan, Nueva Ecija on June 5, 1899. He died at the age of 31. Antonio also founded and edited the revolutionary newspaper La Independencia. Philippine Heroes - Melchora Aquino as Tandang Sora (1812-1919) Melchora Aquino, who is more popularly known as Tandang Sora was born on January 16, 1812. She was not able to get formal education due to poverty. But despite her lack of academic knowledge, she lived a colorful and meaningful life. At age 84, Melchora was still able to play an important role in the Filipino revolution against the Spanish colonizers. She took care of countless injured Katipuneros and attended to almost all their needs. The Spanish authorities learned of the Katipuneros planned uprising. They rounded up the male population, arrested and tortured them. Many were injured and eventually died. A few lucky ones managed to escape and survived. They hid at Melchora's house. She took care of them. Since then Melchora's residence became the secret meeting place of all the Katipuneros. When full-blown war erupted, all the wounded Katipuneros were brought to her house. She took care and fed them. A Filipino traitor reported her charitable activities to the Spanish authorities. She was arrested despite her old age and brought to Spain. She was jailed at the Guartel de Espanya. When the American'troops conquered the Spanish colonizers, Melchora was able to return to the Philippines on February 23,1903. She enjoyed full freedom since then until her death at the age of 107. Because of her heroism, a place in Quezon was named after her. The place is now known as Tandang Sora, Quezon City. Philippine Heroes - Graciano Lopez Jaena (1856-1896) Graciano Lopez Jaena was a native of Jaro, Ilollo. He was born on December 18, 1856 to parents Placido Lopez and Maria Jacoba Jaena. Having a very religious mother, Graciano was persuaded by her that priesthood would be the best for him. She enrolled her son at the Seminario de San Vicente Ferrer in Jaro. While studying, he worked as secretary to his uncle, Claudio Lopez, who was then the Vice Consul of Portugal in lloilo. Despite her mother's wishes, Graciano chose to pursue a degree in Medicine. He was denied entry at the University of Santo Tomas because he did not have a Bachelor of Arts degree, a course, which was not offered from his previous school. Nevertheless, he was taught as an apprentice at the San Juan de Dios Hospital. When he returned to Jaro, Graciano practiced his knowledge in medicine to the remote parts of their province. His frequent visits to the poor and ordinary people in the remote areas made him realize how bad their living conditions are under the Spanish rule. He was 18 when he garnered much strength to write Fray Botod. The satirical novel tells story of fat, lazy and immoral priests, who speaks nothing but saintly verses but could not see their own wrongdoings. This infuriated the Spanish clergy. Graciano was forced to leave for Spain to avoid threats to his life. While in Spain, he became the best literary and oratorical spokesman for the restoration of freedom to all the Filipinos. He continued his studies in medicine at the University of Valencia but again failed to finish it. His focus was shifted to journalism. He joined the Propaganda Movement. He was one of the original members who founded La Solidaridad on 1888. Graciano used the pen name Diego Laura to hide his true identity. On October 12, 1891, he published the weekly newspaper El Latigo National, which became the mouthpiece of the La Solidaridad. Graciano decided to return to the Philippines. He solicited funds needed to sustain their crusade for freedom. The Spanish authorities felt threatened with Graciano's exposes. Even the Bishop of Spain sent a message to Graciano, offering him a high-paying job if he ceased writing against them. He rejected the offer. Graciano possessed an awesome oratorical talent. He bravely spoke in every social gathering about the evils of the Spanish rule in his country. Graciano died on January 20, 1896 in Barcelona. According to some historians, of the renowned triumvirate of Filipino propagandists that include Graciano, Marcelo H. Del Pilar and Dr. Jose Rizal, it was Graciano who actually started the Propaganda Movement. Philippine Heroes - Panday Pira (1488 - 1576) Panday Pira was the first Filipino cannon maker. He was born in 1488 in one of the islands in the southern part of the Philippines. First Filipino cannon-maker. He forged the cannons which Rajah Sulayman used in defending the Muslim Kingdom of Manila against the Spanish invaders. Born in one of the islands in Southern Philippines in 1483. He died in 1576. He was a popular blacksmith and cannon maker. He was tasked by his fellowmen to make cannons for them, which they used against the foreigners. He learned the craft from the Chinese and Arab traders who were then staying at Lamayan, Sta. Ana, Manila. Panday Pira moved to Pampanga when Martin de Goiti stormed Manila. He returned to the city because the Spaniards sent for him. They ordered him to make cannons. He died in 1576 at the age of 88. In recognition of the conrlbution of Panday Pira to the country, a place in Tondo was named after him. Philippine Heroes - Mariano Ponce (1863-1918) Another national hero Bulacan province is proud of is Mariano Ponce. Born in Baliwag, Bulacan in 1863, Mariano's parents were Mariano Ponce Sr. and Mariana Collantes de los Santos. He also finished high school in his hometown. He continued his studies in Manila at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran and the University of Santo Tomas where he studied Medicine. He proceeded to Europe in Spain to finish his medical course. There he met the three renowned Filipino propagandists Dr. Jose Rizal, Graciano Lopez Jaena and Marcelo H. del Pilar. While studying in Spain, he learned about the sufferings of his compatriots at the hands of the abusive Spanish colonizers. His sense of

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patriotism and compassion for his countrymen heightened with what he discovered. This overwhelming feeling got the better of Mariano that he decided to quit his studies to join the Filipino Movement in Spain. The Movement, composed of Filipino expatriates in Spain was fighting for reforms on the Spanish governance of the Philippines. Mariano began to write articles revealing the sad state of Filipinos under Spanish rule. These articles regularly come out on the newspaper published by Graciano lopez Jaena and widely circulated in the Philippines. He left Spain when he , realized that the Spanish authorities were turning a deaf ear on their demands. He stayed in Hong Kong, While in Hong Kong, he continued to write more exposes against the Spanish colonizers in the Philippines. He also stayed in Japan. He went back to the Philippines on the belief that he would be more effective in fighting for his country's cause. Mariano even became a member of the Philippine Assembly in 1909. Plagued by a severe illness, Mariano died on May 23,1918. Philippine Heroes - Jose Abad Santos y Basco (1886 - 1942) Jose Abad Santos was born on February 19, 1886 in San Fernando, Pampanga. His father was Vicente Abad Santos. His mother was Toribia Basco. His wife was Amanda Teopaco. They had five children - Jose, Osmundo, Luz, Amada and Victoria. Jose finished his elementary education ini San Fernando Elementary School. His parents sent him to Santa Clara College in San Jose, California in 1904 where he finished high school. He studied law at the University of Illinois but completed his Bachelor of Laws degree at Northwestern University on June 4, 1908, He finished his Master of Laws at George Washington University on June 19,1909. He worked as a temporary clerk in the Archives Division of the Executive Bureau when he returned to the Philippines. Later, he was appointed clerk at the Bureau of Justice, He also hold the position of a court interpreter when he passed the bar examinations on October 12, 1911. He was chosen assistant-attorney at the Bureau of Justice on July 13, 1914. He became the special attorney of the Philippine National Bank on July 16,1918. He was again appointed assistant attorney at the Bureau of Justice in 1919. He served as one of the six technical advisers of the First Parliamentary Independence Mission to the United States. He retired when he was assistant attorney and legal counsel of the PNB. He was appointed Under Secretary of Justice on January 1922. He Was also selected as Secretary of Justice under Governor-General Leonard Wood. It lasted until June 28,1932. For the third time, he swore as the Secretary of Justice on December 5, 1938. He stayed as Justice Secretary until July 16,1941. On December 24 of the same year, he was appointed Chief Justice of the Supreme Court. At the outbreak of World War II, he also served as Acting Secretary of Finance, Agriculture and Commerce in the Quezon War Cabinet aside from being Secretary of Justice. When Manuel Quezon went to Washington D.C. he temporarily took over as head of the government. The Japanese seized Abad Santos near Carcar, Cebu. They asked him to tell Gen. Manuel Roxas to withdraw his allegiance from the United States. Abad Santos refused. At two o'clock on May 12, 1942 he met his death from the hands of the Japanese. hilippine Heroes - Francisco Baltazar Balagtas y Dela Cruz (1788-1862) National hero Francisco Baltazar, the great orator and poet hails from the province of Bulacan. He was born on April 2, 1788 in Panginay, Bigaa, Bulacan. His parents were Juan Baltazar and Juana dela Cruz. He worked as a houseboy for a rich family in Tondo, Manila when he was only 11 years old. He went to school during his off hours. He went on to finish high school. He continued his college education at the Colegio de San Jose and graduated with a degree in Philosophy and Theology. He became a great a writer and poet. It was Dr. Mariano Pilapil who taught him how to write and Joseng Sisiw was his mentor in poetry. Joseng Sisiw once refused to edit Francisco's poem because he did not have any chick to pay him. A dejected Francisco edited his own piece and to his surprise many liked it even better than mentor's works. It was to be the road to his greatness, besting even his mentor Joseng Sisiw. A pretty maiden by the name of Asuncion Rivera captured the heart of Francisco. Asuncion had many suitors. One of them, Mariano Capule a wealthy and influential man was so obsessed with her that he ordered Franscisco jailed. While Francisco was in jail Capule and Asuncion got married. While in prison, Francisco wrote his greatest masterpiece, Florante at Laura. This piece was written in Tagalog. The book vividly and artistically illustrated the true state of the country at the hands of its Spanish colonizers. He was released from prison in 1840 and found himself in Bataan. He met Juana Tiambeng, courted and married her in July 22,1842. They had 11 offspring. He got involved in another controversy and landed in jail anew. He took his incarceration as an inspiration and produced more literary innuendoes and poems against the Spanish rule in the country. Francisco Baltazar who was also known as Francisco Balagtas died on February 20, 1862 at the age of 74. It was from Francisco Baltazar that the name Balagtasan was derived to honor his excellence and greatness in the field of poetry. Philippine Heroes - Juan Luna y Novicio (1857 - 1899) Juan Luna y Novicio is a painter who was born on October 23, 1857 in Badoc, llocos Norte. His father was Joaquin Luna de San Pedro y Posada while his mother was Laureana Novicio y Ancheta. Juan had three brothers: Manuel, a violin virtuoso; Jose, a doctor; Joaquin, a governor, congressman and senator; and Antonio, writer and general, of the Philippine Revolutionary Army. Juan married Paz Pardo de Tavera y Gorricho. Juan finished high school at Ateneo de Manila and at Escuela Nautica where at age 17 he received the Pilot of The High Seas Third Class certificate. He also took landscape painting at the Academia de Dibujo y Pintura.

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Juan painted Barrio Al Lado Del Rio (Village by the River) and Vista Un Barrio Con Kapok (Barrio Scene with Kapok Trees) in 1877. He studied at Real Academia de Bellas Artes de San Fernando in Madrid where he was an outstanding student. He signed up as an apprentice of Alejo Vera, a professor of the same school. He completed the miniature of his Autoretrato A Edad 22 (Self Portrait at 22) made of charcoal and Dafnis y Chloe (Daphne and Chloe). He was awarded a silver palette from Centra Artistico Literario de Manila in the latter. He finished some of his masterpieces while in Rome in 1884. Among them were La Bella Feliz y LaEsclava Ciega (The Happy Beauty and the Blind Slave) and La Muerte de Cleopatra (The Death of Cleopatra) which won a silver medal in the Madrid Art Exposition of 1381. It was 1884 when his Spoliarium won the gold medal in the Madrid Art Exposition. Dr. Jose Rizal considered Spoliarium an exact illustration of how the Spaniards abused the Filipinos. In 1885, he painted El Pacto de Sangre (Blood Compact) and Miguel Lopez de Legazpi. In 1886, his Damas Romanes (Roman Ladies) received recognition at the Munich Salon. Mestizo en su Tucador (Mestizo Lady at Her Dresser) also won the same recognition in Exposicion General de las Filipinas in 1887. In November 1887, Queen Regent Maria Cristina unveiled the paintings of Luna and Pradilla at the Madrid Senate. Later, in 1892 Juan painted Peuple at Rois (People and Kings), which he would enter at the Chicago Universal Exposition. Juan came back to the Philippines in May of 1894 with his brother Antonio. The Spanish constabulary arrested the brothers Juan and Antonio. They accused them of conspiring with the Katipuneros. They were jailed at Fort Santiago but only he was released. He returned to Spain to work on Antonio's freedom. He was still in Spain when he learned that the Spaniards were no longer in control of the Philippines. With the setting up of the Republic of the Philippines, he was appointed diplomatic agent in the Hongkong Junta. He became part of the Philippine diplomatic missions in Paris and United States. He was coming back home when Juan contracted a disease and die in Hong Kong on December 7, 1899. hilippine Heroes - Marcelo Hilario del Pilar y Gatmaytan (1850 - 1896) Marcelo H. del Pilar was born on August 30, 1850 in Cupang, San Nicolas, Bulacan. He was the son of Julian H. del Pilar and Blasa Gatmaitan. He was baptized Marcelo Hilario. They adapted the surname del Pilar in accordance with the decree issued by Governor General Narciso Claveria. Toribio, his brother, was a priest. Marcelo married his cousin Marciana. They had seven children. He studied at the school of Jose Flores, San Jose College and at the University of Santo Tomas, where he completed his law degree in 1882. Marcelo detested the Spanish friars. He once argued with a friar. This made his parents so frightened that they sent Marcelo to Spain so the friar could not get hold of him. He continued criticizing the friars though. He wrote articles, pamphlets and booklets against the presence of Spanish friars in the Philippines. Together with Graciano Lopez Jaena, they founded Diaryong Tagalog in 1882. He also founded La Solidaridad. He exposed the cruelty of the Spanish friars against the Filipinos. He used different pen names to conceal his true identity. Some of these were Dolores Manapat, Piping Dilat, Kupang and PlarideL Marcelo was not able to see his family again. Burdened with so much stress, extreme poverty and loneliness, he contracted tuberculosis and died in Barcelona, Spain on July 4, 1896. Philippine Heroes - Pedro A. Paterno (1857 - 1911)

Pedro Paterno was born in Manila on February 27, 1857. Pedro Paterno was a Filipino statesman as well as a poet and writer. He was the author of Pacto de Biyak-na-Bato (Pact of Biyak-na-Bato), first published in 1910. He studied at Ateneo de Manila and afterwards at the University of Salamanca. He likewise enrolled at the Central University of Madrid where he completed his law degree. Paterno joined the Propaganda Movement. His greatest contribution to the country was his role as a mediator in the peace agreement between the Spaniards and the Filipinos. Pedro Paterno contributed a lot in Philippine literature too. His writings showed how much he loved his country. He had also given the Filipinos a sense of pride through the honors and achievements he had contributed to our culture and literature. His work El Cristianismo en la Antigua Civilization Tagalog, was one work that achieved so much admiration and recognition. Paterno was one of the representatives in the National Assembly on April 1899. He did not agree in the planned annexation of the Philippines to the United States. He believed that the Filipinos would rather choose to govern their own country than have it ruled by the Americans. Because of his refusal, other Filipinos followed suit. This refusal stirred their emotions to fight against the Americans later on. Paterno died on March 27, 1911 at the age of 53. Philippine Heroes - Father Jose Apolonio Burgos (1837 - 1872) Father Jose Burgos was the youngest of the three martyrs. He was born on February 9,1837 in Vigan, llocos Sur. His father was Don Jose Tiburcio, Burgos and his mother was Florencia Garcia. Antonia and Maria were his younger sisters. He dreamt to be a priest while still a child. Since he was orphaned at an early age he was forced to stay with a relative in Manila. He enrolled at San Juan de Letran on August 11, 1847. At age 17, he finished his Bachiller en Filosopia on February 11,1855 with the highest honors. He likewise achieved the highest honors when he completed his degree, Bachiller en Teologia, on January 21,1859. A year after, he was ordained on August 1, 1860.

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He took his master's degree at the University of Sto. Tomas. At the same time, Father Burgos taught Latin in the same university. One of his students was Jose Rizal. It is why Rizal dedicated to him his novel El Filibusterismo. He completed his master's degree, Licenciado en Teologia, on February 21, 1866 and his Bachiller en Canones on February 8, 1866. His thirst for knowledge never ends. He continued his studies and on April 14, 1868, he completed his Doctor en Teologia and Licenciado en Canones on October 29,1868. On April 1871, Father Burgos was also able to complete his Doctor en Canones, the highest degree one can attain in priesthood. His first mass was celebrated at Intramuros. He became the parish priest of Sagrario de Intramuros. He could not help but to be at odds with some senior priests because of his liberal ideas. He also became the parish priest of the Parish of St. Peter, second parish priest in the Cathedral, Master of the Claustral Ceremony at UST, ecclesiastical fiscal at Sagragrio de Intramuros and canonical magistrate at the Manila Cathedral. The highest position assigned to him was Ecclesiastical Court Fiscal. In spite of the good positions given to him, Father Burgos was never contented because he was witness to the cruelty of the Spanish friars to his fellowmen. With Father Gomez and Father Zamora, they fought for reforms in the government. Almost simultaneous with this was the outbreak of the Cavite Mutiny on January 20,1872. The Spanish friars took advantage of the situation. They took hold of the three Filipino priests and accused them of conniving with the rebels. An unjust trial followed and on February 16, 1872 they were sentenced to die by garrote. The three priests, popularly known as Gomburza, faced their Creator on February 17, 1872. hilippine Heroes - Miguel Malvar y Carpio (1865 - 1911) Miguel Malvar y Carpio was remembered in history as the last Filipino general who surrendered to the Americans. He was born in San Miguel, Sto. Tomas, Batangas on September 1, 1865. His parents were Maxima Malvar and Tiburcia Carpio. Miguel was the eldest among three children. Malvar came from a wealthy family. He could have studied in Manila but he had to help his parents manage their properties and workers. He even had to stop schooling to concentrate on the family business. He was only able to finish second year high school. In 1885, he married Maula Maloles, a childhood friend. He was attending some business transactions in Manila when he learned of the secret society founded by Andres Bonifacio. He joined the organization because he believed in what it was fighting for. When the revolution started off and reached Sto. Tomas, Batangas in August of 1986, Malvar gallantly led a group of men who fought with the Spaniards. They attacked and took over Spanish garrisons. He directed the uprisings in Indang, Bailen, Magallanes and Alfonso at Cavite. He was appointed Commanding General in Batangas on March 31, 1897 because of his skill and bravery. The signing of the Pact of Biak-na-Bato ended the hostility between the Spaniards and the Filipinos. The Spaniards surrendered Manila to the Americans on August 13, 1898. However, the attained peace was short lived. Another uprising threatened the freedom the Fiiipinos had just started to enjoy. Malvar once again gathered men who were willing to offer their lives for the country. In May 1899, the Malvar Batangas Brigade was directed to attack an American garrison in Muntinlupa. They succeeded. It was only in January 1900 when Malvar's army suffered defeat from the Americans. They endured continuous defeats, hunger, fatigue, ailments and lack of arms. His men started to get sick. Being a humble leader, Malvar, his loyal followers and their families laid down their arms together and surrendered to the Americans for the sake of his men. This was April 16,1902. Since then, Malvar lived as an ordinary farmer with his family. He died on October 13, 1911. Philippine Heroes - Felipe Calderon (1868 - 1908) Felipe Calderon was born on April 4, 1868 in Santa Cruz de Malabon (now Tanza), Cavite. His father was Don Jose Gonzales Calderon while his mother was Dona Mdnuela Roca. Both had Spanish blood. Calderon studied in Ateneo Municipal. Even though he belonged to a rich family, he was granted scholarships because of his exceptional talent. He completed with high honors his Bachelor of Arts degree. He also enrolled at the University of Santo Tomas where he finished his Licenciado en Leyes in 1893. Then, he took an apprentice job in the law office of Don Cayetano Arellano. Regardless of the Spanish blood running in his veins, he supported the revolutionary cause against Spain. It was the reason he was arrested and imprisoned by the Spaniards after the Cry of Pugad Lawin. He was released eventually. He drafted the Malolos Constitution, which was proclaimed on January 25, 1899. He went to Manila when the Filipino-Amerfcan War broke out. He appeared before the Schurmann Commission and presented propositions for the restoration of peace. He also founded in 1899 the Colegio de Abogados de Manila and the Escuela de Derecho, a law school. In 1904, he was chosen member of a committee assigned to draw up a proposed Penal Code. He died on July 6,1908. He was 40 years old. Some historians dub Tomas Pinpin, as the "Prince of Filipino Printers" or the "Patriarch of Filipino Printing." He learned the art of printing about the end of 1608 in the Dominican-owned printing press in Abucay. In Abucay, Father Blancas employed in 1609 young Pinpin as an apprentice at the printing shop and taught him the art of printing. Tomas Pinpin was said to have been born in Barrio Mabatang, Abucay, Bataan. The approximate date of his birth was between 1580 and 1585. Very little is known of his ancestry because of the loss of the parish records of Abucay.

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Historians believed that Pinpin was of Chinese parentage. The basis of which were his name, characteristics, business acumen and hardworking qualities. In 1648, Pardo de Tavera claimed that a beautifully engraved book by a friar stated at the end: "Printed in the Office of Tomas Pinpin." It was presumed that he had a printing shop in Manila by that time and that he was the one engraving and printing books written by the Spanish friars. It was presumed also that Pinpin taught the printer's trade to his son Simon. Pinpin was considered as the Prince of Filipino Printers. There are no records of Tomas Pinpin after 1640. Historians could not determine the date when he passed away. Philippine Heroes - Diego Baltazar Silang (1730-1763)

Diego was born on December 16, 1730 in Aringay, La Union to parents Miguel Silang and Nicolasa de los Santos. Diego worked as a messenger for the Spanish clergy in Vigan. He frequently traveled to Manila to deliver letters and messages. During those times, there were still no roads connecting Vigan to Manila. One time, while on his way to Manila, the small boat he was boarding was drifted by a strong typhoon to the shores of Zambales. He was rescued by the tribesmen but made him a slave. A missionary priest paid the tribesmen in exchange for his freedom. Diego went back to work as messenger. It was during one of his trips that he met Maria Josefa Gabriela. He fell in love with the young widow from Santa, Ilocos Sur that resulted to their marriage. On September 1762, Diego witnessed a band of armed British troops anchoring in Manila Bay. The British troops ordered the Spaniards to give up the city. When the Spaniards refused they bombarded the whole city. The British Army went on to capture Manila on October 1762. Because of what he witnessed, Diego realized that the Spanish forces had also their weaknesses. He went home to his parents and plotted an uprising. His townmates joined him in his plan. Diego fiercely fought the Spanish forces but he was captured and jailed. He managed to escape with the help of Father Millan, the priest who took care of him before. Right after regaining freedom, Diego fought more aggressively. Governor Anda, upon the orders of the Spanish authorities, persuaded Diego to surrender. He would be branded as a traitor if he would not follow their orders. Diego decided to seek help from the British authorities. He readily got their support. Because of what happened, Gov. Anda plotted for Diego's death. He promised a handsome fee and recognition from the Spanish authorities to anybody who could kill Diego. A Spanish mestizo by the name of Miguel Vicos and a certain Pedro Becbec agreed to Gov. Anda's conditions. On May 28,1763, Vicos shot Diego at the back. Diego Silang died on the spot at the age of 33. Philippine Heroes - Maria Josefa Gabriela Cario Silang (1731 - 1763) Maria Josefa Gabriela Cario Silang was the true name of Gabriela Silang. She was born on March 19,1731 in Caniogan, Santa, llocos Sur. Gabriela was a beautiful young woman. She was so pretty that many men, young and old alike, wanted her to be their wife. She was, 20 when her father arranged her marriage to a wealthy suitor. She became a widow at an early age. Her husband died a few years after they wed. She became wealthy because she inherited all the possessions of her spouse. She met Diego Silang, a brave young man who led a group of courageous fellowmen fighting the abusive Spaniards. They fell in love and got married. They lived in Vigan, llocos Sur where Diego's hideaway was located. Diego was a fearless man. He fought valiantly. In one of the skirmishes with the Spaniards, he was killed. She took over as the leader of Diego's group. Like her husband, she fought gallantly against the Spaniards. She put into practice what she had learned from Diego when he was still alive especially using weapons. Unfortunately, the Spaniards overpowered Gabriela and her men in one encounter. The Spaniard persecuted her by means of strangulation on September 20,1763. Philippine Heroes - Datu Lapu Lapu According to the historians, Lapu-Lapu was born and lived in the island of Mactan. He was the son of the couple Kusgano and Inday Puti. He was the first Filipino Hero. Lapulapu is considered one of the greatest figures of ancient Philippine history. Lapu-Lapu was handsome, brave and strong. He won over his rivals to marry Princess Bulakna, daughter of Datu Sabtano. They had a son named Sawili. When Princess Bulakna's father died, Lapu-Lapu became the chief of their tribe. He had more than a thousand and five hundred soldiers who obeyed him faithfully. When Magellan came to the Philippines he persuaded Raja Humabon, King Zula and other leaders to be allies of Spain. However, Lapu-Lapu refused to recognize the Spanish authority. He even encouraged fellow leaders not to make friends with the foreigners. Magellan got angry. He decided to bring more than 60 of his men to teach Lapu-Lapu a lesson. One day in April 1521, Magellan and his Filipino allies in Mactan attacked Lapu-Lapu. But the latter was prepared. Lapu-Lapu armed his followers with bows and arrows with poison. Their spears were made of steel pointed at the tip. When Magellan's party arrived at Mactan, a ferocious battle ensued. Lapu-Lapu was said to have killed Magellan in this encounter. Lapu-Lapu remained leader of Mactan until his death. His bravery frightened his enemies and earned the respect of his fellowmen.

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hilippine Heroes - Francisco Dagohoy Very few knew Francisco Dagohoy. Francisco was an ordinary man who fought against the Spaniards for his countrymen. Francisco hailed from Bohol. He had a brother who was a policeman. One day, their parish priest, Padre Morales, asked his brother to arrest a man. His brother chased the man. Unfortunately the man fought back and killed the policeman. They brought the dead body of his brother to the church for the vigil. Padre Morales refused to hold the wake inside the church unless they have money to pay for it. Francisco got angry with the inconsiderate priest. This led him to take action against Padre Morales. Francisco organize a group composed of angry countrymen who were victims of the abuses of the friars and the Spaniards. The group lasted for more than 80 years. They defended the oppressed and those maltreated by the friars. One of the first things they did was to get Father Morales out of their church. The group became a pain in the neck for the Spaniards. They ran after them but could not get them. Dagohoy's group went to the mountains to avoid the prying eyes of the enemies. In the year 1828, the Spaniards attacked Dagohoy's group unexpectedly. They brought with them heavy mortars. The group suffered many casualties, which eventually paralyzed their operation. Francisco Dagohoy likewise died in the attack. Dagohoy's rebellion was considered as the longest running rebellion in the history of the Philippine revolution. It started in the year 1744 and lasted until 1829. Philippine Heroes - Epifanio delos Santos y Cristobal (1871 - 1928)

Epifanio delos Santos was born on April 1, 1871. His parents were Esculastico delos Santos and Antonia Cristobal. He completed his Bachelor of Arts degree at Ateneo de Manila University and his law degree at the University of Santo Tpmas. Epifanio met Ursula Paez, He fell in love with her. He and Ursula got married. Ursula bore him a son. They named him Jose. When he and Ursula separated ways,he met Margarita Torralba. She became his second wife. Though he was a law graduate, Epifanio also shone in other fields like music literature and philosophy. His talent in Philology was recognized not only locally but also abroad. Upon reaching Spain, he was commissioned as member of the Real Academia in Madrid. He was also a known writer. He was the chief writer of the newspaper La Independencia . Many people admired the way he wrote the issues concerning the plight of the Filipinos in the hands of the Spaniards. Like those written by Rizal, Del Pilar and Jacinto, his articles were eye-openers among the unenlightened Filipinos. He was later appointed member of the Malolos Congress. He became a fiscal at the province of Nueva Ecija during the American regime. When he ran for governor, he won easily. He held the gubernatorial position a number of times. Other positions he held in the government were: technical editor at the Bureau of Census (1919); judge of the Court of Appeals; and editor of the National Library and Museum. He passed away on April 18,1928. Epifanio de los Santos Avenue (more popularly known as EDSA) was named after him as a way of honoring his contribution to the country in more ways than one. Philippine Heroes - Julian Felipe (1861 - 1944) Julian Felipe was born on January 28, 1861. He was the youngest son of the twelve children of Justo Felipe and Victoria Reyes. Julian inherited his talent in music from his father who was also a musician. Julian Felipe composed the Philippine National Anthem. He studied at a public school in Cavite and Binondo, Manila for his primary education. At an early age, he showed his talent in music. He also learned how to play the piano and the organ. Later, He became an organist in St. Peter's Parish Church. As an organist, Felipe was given the chance to hone his gift. Soon after he was composing songs. Among his early popular compositions were Moteti el Santesisimo, Sintos y Floras Rogodones and Amorita Danza. He impressed many music enthusiasts with the said pieces. Though still young, his works were already at par with the seasoned musicians. In recognition of his remarkable contributions in the field of music, he was given awards and accolades. When the revolution broke out, Julian joined his fellow Cavitenos who fought against the Spaniards. He was arrested and jailed at Fort San Felipe in Cavite. When freed, he again joined Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo's troop. He composed nationalistic songs that inspired his compatriots to continue fighting against the Spaniards. Gen. Aguinaldo asked him to provide a stirring composition to be played in the historic proclamation of Philippine independence. His composition Marcha Nacional Filipina, played on June 12, 1898 in Aguinaldo's home in Kawit, was adopted as the Philippine national anthem on September 5, 1938. Julian and his wife Irene Tapia had four daughters and a son. Julian died on October 2, 1944. One of the greatest blessings in a country is the have people who strongly fight and stand up for what they believe in is right. They are a country's pride - the heroes. These men and women played a major part in ensuing the freedom of the Philippines. The Philippine heroes are the people that have fought for freedom and independence or to fight back against oppression. Many of the Philippine heroes were revolutionaries in fight for independence against the colonizers. There are also those that have fought to uphold freedom and independence. List of Philippine National Heroes Dr. Jose Rizal - The National Hero. Andres Bonifacio - The Great Plebian and Father of the Katipunan. General Gregorio del Pilar - Hero of the Battle of Tirad Pass.

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General Emilio Aguinaldo - President of the First Philippine Republic. Apolinario Mabini - Sublime Paralytic and Brains of the Revolution. Doa Teodora Alonzo y Realonda - Mother and first teacher of Jose Rizal. Father Mariano Gomez - One of the Priest of GOMBURZA. Emilio Jacinto y Dizon - Brains of the Katipunan. Cayetano Arellano - First Chief Justice of the Supreme Court Father Jacinto Zamora - One of the three martyr priests, the GOMBURZA. GOMBURZA - Martyred Priests of 1872. Trece Martirez - 13 Martyrs from Cavite. General Antonio Luna - Cofounder of La Independencia. Melchora Aquino (Tandang Sora) - Mother of Balintawak. Graciano Lopez-Jaena - Greatest Filipino Orator of the Propaganda Movement. Panday Pira - First Filipino Cannon-maker. Mariano Ponce - Propagandist, Historian, Diplomat And Managing Editor of La Solidaridad. Gregoria de Jesus - Lakambini of Katipunan and Wife of Andres Bonifacio. General Vicente Lim - Brigadier General who was executed by the Japanese Imperial Army. Fernando Ma. Guerrero - Poet of the Revolution. Jose Abad Santos y Basco - 5th Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines. Felipe Agoncillo - Outstanding Diplomat of the First Philippine Republic. Francisco Baltazar Balagtas y Dela Cruz - Prince of Tagalog Poets. Rafael Palma - Cofounder of La Independencia and First UP president . Juan Luna - Greatest and Famous Filipino Painter. Marcelo H. Del Pilar - Greatest Journalist and Moving Spirit of the Propaganda Movement. Leona Florentino - First Filipino Poetess(from Ilocos Sur). Pedro Paterno - Peacemaker of the Revolution. Father Jose Apolonio Burgos - youngest priest of the GOMBURZA martyrs Isabelo delos Reyes - Founder of Philippine Socialism. Artemio Ricarte - Revolutionary General, known as Viborra. Miguel Malvar y Carpio - Last Filipino general who surrendered to the Americans. Jose Palma - Wrote the Spanish Lyrics of the Philippine National Anthem. Felipe Calderon - Drafted the Malolos Constitution. Lakandola - Chief of Tondo, Friendly to the Spaniards. Rajah Soliman - The Last Rajah of Manila. Leonor Rivera - Cousin and Fiancee of Jose Rizal. Tomas Pinpin - Prince of Filipino Printers. Marcela Mario Agoncillo - Maker of the First Filipino Flag. Galicano Apacible - One of the Founders of Katipunan. Jose Ma. Panganiban - Bicolandia's Greatest Contribution to the Historic Campaign for Reforms. Diego Baltazar Silang - Leader of the Ilocano Revolt. Maria Josefa Gabriela Silang - First Filipino woman to lead a revolt against Spanish colonization. Lapu-Lapu - Chieftain of Mactan Who Killed Magellan. First Filipino Hero. Francisco Dagohoy - Leader of the Longest Revolt in Bohol. Epifanio delos Santos - A Man of Many Talents; the Former Highway 54 is Now Named After him (EDSA). Teresa Magbanua - First Woman Fighter in Panay. Visayan Joan of Arc. Trinidad Tecson - Mother of Biak-na-Bato. Agueda Esteban - Wife of Artemio Ricarte Who Carried Secret Messages About Spanish Troops. Marina Dizon - Daughter of One of the Trece Martirez. General Francisco Makabulos - Leader of the Revolt in Tarlac. Julian Felipe - Composer of the Philippine National Anthem. Emilio Aguinaldo Declared Philippine Independence in Kawit on June 12, 1898 First President of the Philippines born March 30, 1869 in Kawit, Cavite died February 6, 1964 in Kawit. Cavite Click here for more on Emilio Aguinaldo Teodora Alonzo "The Rizals offer their lives to their mother country because of their inherent patriotism and not because of money." mother of Jose Rizal first teacher of young Rizal born November 9, 1827 in Meisek, Tondo died 1911 Click here for more on Teodora Alonzo Melchora Aquino known as Tandang Sora the Mother of Katipunan aided ailing Katipuneros before and during the revolution born January 6, 1812 in Banilad, Caloocan died March 2, 1919 Click here for more on Melchora Aquino Andres Bonifacio Father of the Katipunan Father of the Revolution and Philippine Democracy the "Supremo" the Great Plebeian born November 30, 1863 in Tundo, Manila died May 10 1897, in Mt. Buntis, by execution Click here for more on Andres Bonifacio Padre Jose Ma. Burgos priest-reformist one of the GOMBURZA martyrs executed by Spain, on suspicion of rebellion taught Rizal at the Ateneo de Manila born February 9, 1837 died February 28, 1872 at Bagumbayan by execution Click here for more on Padre Burgos. Gregoria de Jesus known as Lakambini wife of Andres Bonifacio Lakambini, wife of Andres Bonifacio Mother of the Philippine Revolution born May 9, 1875 in Kalookan died March 15, 1943

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Click here for more on Gregoria de Jesus. Emilio Jacinto Brains of the Katipunan wrote the Kartilya ng Katipunan born December 15, 1875 in Trozo, Manila died April 16, 1899 in Mahayhay, Laguna Click here for more on Emilio Jacinto Graciano Lopez Jaena one of the leading propagandist in Spain, for reforms in the Philippines leading orator of the Propaganda movement editor of La Solidaridad born December 29, 1856 died January 22, 1896 in Barcelona, Spain Click here for more on Graciano Lopez Jaena Gen. Antonio Luna brilliant general under Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo during the Philippine revolution born October 29, 1869 Urbiztondo, Manila died June 5, 1899 in Cabanatuan Click here for more on Gen. Antonio Luna Juan Luna renowned painter persecuted on suspicion of supporting the Katipunan born October 23, 1857 in Badoc, Ilocos Norte to Joaquin Luna and Laurena Novicio. died December 23, 1899 Click here for more on Juan Luna Apolinario Mabini Conscience and Brain of the Philippine Revolution the Sublime Paralytic key adviser of Emilio Aguinaldo proposed the first constitution of the Philippine Republic born July 22, 1864 Barrio Talaga, Tanawan Batangas to Inocencio Mabini, Dionisia Maranan died May 13, 1903 Click here for more on Apolinario Mabini Gen. Miguel Malvar Gen. Miguel Malvar last Filipino to surrender to the Americans President after Aguinaldo was captured by the Americans undertook the siege of San Pablo, Laguna born September 27, 1865 Barrio San Miguel, Sto Tomas Batangas to Maximo Malvar and Tiburcia Carpio died October 13, 1911 Click here for more on Gen. Miguel Malvar Gen Gregorio del Pilar hero of Tirad Pass commander of last Army of Gen. Aguinaldo born November 14, 1875 died December 2, 1899 fighting the Americans at Tirad pass Click here for more on Gen. Gregorio del Pilar Marcelo H del Pilar popularly known as Plaridel leading propagandist for reforms in the Philippines editor and co-publisher of La Solidaridad born August 30, 1850 in Cupang, San Nicolas, Bulacan to Julian del Pilar and Blasa Gatmaytan died July 4, 1893 in Barcelona, Spain Click here for more on Marcelo H. del Pilar Jose Protacio Rizal Mercado Philippine National Hero author of Noli Me Tangere and La Solidaridad founder of the La Liga Filipina born June 19, 1861 in Calamba, Laguna Seventh child of Francisco Engracio Rizal Mercado y Alejandro, and Teodora Morales Alonzo Realonda y Quintos died December 30, 1896 at Bagumbayan (now Luneta); execution by musketry Click here for more on Dr. Jose Rizal