PREFACE

This module discusses the significant topics in Philippine history by considering

the different learning styles of students. The new General Education Curriculum of

changing the way the Philippine History is taught and studied is also embodied in this

module.

An outcome – based module, Reading in the Philippine History aims to maximize

the learning experience of the students. There will be some recommended readings and

other learning materials to supplement the discussion of the main topics. An online

courseware would also be available.

It is expected that through this module, students may change their old

perspective that history is boring but instead they will take an active participation in all

suggested exercise by reading and analyzing materials from different media –

documents, pictures, videos, audio – visual recordings, digital sources and pictures.

By using this module, the instructor is expected to guide the students on how to

equip and develop in their critical thinking and reading skills.

 RAMON MAGSAYSAY MEMORIAL COLLEGES
General Education Department

Course Title : READINGS IN THE PHILIPPINE HISTORY

Course Credit : 3 units

Course Description : The course analyzes Philippine history from multiple

perspectives through the lens of selected primary

sources coming from various discipline and of

different genres. Students are given opportunities to

analyze the author’s background and the main

arguments, compare different points of view. The end

goal is to develop the historical and critical

consciousness of the students so that they will

become versatile, articulate, broadminded, morally

upright and responsible citizens.

Vision : RMMC is an institution of innovative

development and excellence.

Mission : RMMC is committed to realize human potentials

through holistic education.

Course Objectives : At the end of the semester, the students should be able to:

1. Differentiate between moral and non-moral problems.

2. Describe what a moral experience is as it happens in different levels of human

existence.
3. Explain the influence of Filipino culture on the way students look at moral

experiences and solve moral dilemmas.

4. Describe the elements of moral development and moral experience.

5. Use ethical frameworks or principles to analyze moral experiences.

6. Make sound ethical judgements based on principles, facts and the stakeholders

affected.

7. Develop sensitivity to the common good.

8. Understand and internalize the principles of ethical behavior in modern society at

the level of the person, society and in interaction with the environment and other

shared resources.
 TABLE OF CONTENTS
Pages
Overview iii
Department History iv
Module 1: CONTEXT ANAYLSIS
Section 2: Learning History
Module 2: UNDERSTANDING PERSPECTIVE
Section 1: Magellan’s Voyage around the World
Section 2: Customs of the Tagalog
Section 3: The Kartilya of the Katipunan
Section 4: The Act of the Proclamation of Independence
Section 5: Speech of Cory Aquino Before the U.S. Congress
Section 6: Artworks
Module 3: ANALYZING PRIMARY SOURCES
Section 1: The First Cry of Revolution
Section 2: The Tejeros Assembly
Section 3: The Rizal Retraction
Module 4: EXPLORING HISTORY
Section 1: Historic Sites and Landmarks Reconized by the National Historical
Commission of the Philippines
Module 5: PHILIPPINE GOVERNANCE AND REVENUE SYSTEM
Section 1: The Philippine Constitution
Section 2: Agrarian Reform
Section 3: Taxation
 PRELIM
COVERAGE
 MODULE 1: CONTEXT ANALYSIS

This module is a collection of primary sources. It analyzes the importance of

primary sources by taking into consideration the account of the author of the document,
author’s biographical backgrounds role in the event and the intent for writing the
document.
Employing primary sources in historical research has two kinds of criticism.
External criticism that examines the authenticity of the document to ensure that the
primary source is not fabricated and internal criticism w/c examines the truthfulness of
the content of the evidence.

Section 1: Learning History

What is history?
The term history stands for three highly related but differentiated concepts,
namely: 1) as past human events or activities, properly called as history – activity;
2) as the records of such past human events known as history-as-record: and 3) as
the process or technique of making or writing such records, properly called as history-
as-historiography.
History is from the Greek concept estoria which gives the Latin word historia,
the French historie and the English term history, originally meant inquiry, investigation
and research. Eventually, Historia – became known as the account of the past of a
person or a group of people through written documents and historical evidences. History
became an important academic discipline. It is thus important to ask: What counts as
history? Traditional historians start to believe that “if there’s no document, there’s no
history”
Just like any other academic discipline, history progressed and considered other
historical sources as valid like the oral traditions such as epics and songs, artifacts,
architecture and memory.
History as a discipline turned into a complex and dynamic inquiry thus it
produced various perspectives and many questions were raised like; what is history?
Why study history? And history for whom? How was a certain historical text written?
Who wrote it? These questions can be answered by historiography – means history of
history. The object in the study of history is the past, the events that happened in the
past and the causes of that event. The object of the study of historiography is history
itself. With it, better understanding of history can be grasped since historical facts and
the historian’s contexts are provided. Therefore, historiography is important for
someone who study history because it can make him critical in the lessons presented to
him.
There are three stages of historical writings in the Philippine history. First, our
history was written mainly by the colonizers. Our image of ourselves and of our past
was shaped by the writing of these foreigners. The second stage came when Filipino
historians emerged and start to write our history from the Filipino point of view. Their
work emphasized the role of Filipino elites who fight against the abuses perpetrated by
the Spaniards.
The third stage was the writing of history from the point of the Filipino people.
Basically, this means that historical figures, events developments should be judged in
terms of whether or not these advanced the interest of the masses. These interests are
controlled by the Filipino people of their own society and future through ever greater
democratic participation and a better life for all.
Those who think of history as an objective recital of facts may wonder why we
are talking about points of view. A few examples should convince us that even the
barest historical account has an implicit value of judgement w/c reflects a particular
point of view. From the colonizers point of view, those who opposed their rules were
filibusteros, tulisanes, insurgents, bandits. From the point of view of the Filipinos these
men were their heroes.
Why Study History?
History plays an important roles in the people’s lives. It can serve as a guide to
present and succeeding generations in facing the challenges of the times. Lessons from
the past can be used to make sense of the present. Learning of past mistakes can help
people to not repeat them. Being reminded of a great past can inspire people to keep
their good practices to move forwards. By projecting the people’s aspirations, history will
enable us to grasp the directions of the country’s development and identify the factors
that impede real progress.

Section 2
Understanding the Sources

Sources of information provide the evidence from which the historian obtains
facts about the past. In writing history, the historian not only relies on past thoughts
rather reenacts it in the context of analyzing the documents and other records. This is
an indispensable condition in the guest for historical facts.
Sources of history are classified into two such; primary and secondary. Primary
sources – are considered as contemporary accounts of an event, personally written or
narrated by a person who directly experienced or participated in the said event. There
sources range from eyewitness accounts, official documents, photographs, fossils,
artifacts and testimonies from the living witnesses. Mostly, primary sources include
unpublished works of individuals that were discovered after sometime like during
historical excavation and researches done in public and private libraries. In some
instances, newspaper or magazine articles are also considered primary sources as they
were written soon after the events.
Secondary sources – are those sources which were produced by an author who
used primary sources to produce the material. Usually, the author incorporates his/her
personal insights and interpretations of the subject being studied. These are in the
forms of published works such as journals, articles, reviews, books, conference paper
and documentaries.
Secondary sources are now available in print and digital repositories. Although,
the proliferation of fake news is evident in both platforms. With this, it becomes more
apparent that sources of texts should be scrutinized for their credibility. Secondary
accounts of historical events are narratives commonly passed on from one generation
to the next or knowledge that is shared within a community. As information is relayed
from person to person, the accuracy of the source material is compromised.
Both primary and secondary sources are useful in writing and learning history.
Historians need to thoroughly scrutinize this historical sources to avoid deception and to
come up with the historical truth – w/c can be done in conducting external and internal
criticisms. External criticism – is the practice of verifying the authenticity of evidence
by examining its physical characteristic; consistency with the historical characteristic of
the time when it was produced and the materials used for the evidence. While internal
criticism – is the examination of the truthfulness of the evidence. It looks at the content
of the source and examines the circumstance of its production. It looks at the
truthfulness and factuality of the evidence by looking at the author of the source.

MODULE EXERCISES
I. Guide Questions.
1. What is history? What is the significance of the study?
2. Is the study of history applicable to the real life situation? How?
3. How did the word “history” come about? Discuss its etymology and evolution
4. What is history from the point of view of the Filipino?
5. Give and explain the three stages in the writing of history.
6. What is the main difference between primary source and secondary source?
7. Why is primary source important in the study of history?
8. What is the purpose of a secondary source?

II. Enumerate examples of primary sources. Write you answers on the web
diagram.

Primary source
III. Write PS if the item is a primary source, SS if it is a secondary source and N if
it is neither of the two sources.

_____1. Memoirs _____6. Documentary Report

_____2. Paintings _____7. Newspaper
_____3. Artifacts _____8. Online Journal Article
_____4. Cartoons _____9. Photographs
_____5. Philippine History Book _____10. Statistical Table

IV. Using any social media site, ask your friends to share their opinions on whether
President Rodrigo Duterte is an elite president or a populist president. You screenshot
five responses that can either be a primary or secondary source of information. Justify
why each response is a primary or secondary source.

MODULE 2 – UNDERSTANDING PERSPECTIVE

This module is a collection of primary sources that contributed to the shaping of

Philippine history. It analyzes the significance of primary sources to the grand narrative
of the history of the Filipino people by providing concrete facts and details coming from
first – hand witnesses of the country’s specific event. These witnesses may have
different perspective – w/c means the point of view of the said author. For example, the
Spanish missionary historians viewed the Filipinos as barbarians or uncivilized. This is
not true, as it is known that Filipinos already had a form of civilization since they already
had their own system of government, system of writing, had their alphabet and had
early commercial ties with the neighboring Asian Countries.

Section 1
Magellan’s Voyage around the World

How and why the Spaniards and the Portuguese came to Asia or Orient is a long
story. In the 16th century, Europe was experiencing some changes because of the
growth of industry and commerce, the advances in science, the improvement of
navigation and the invention of machines and marine instruments. Added to this was the
desire of the of the Europeans to know more about the countries of the Orient. This
desire came about because of the stories told by the crusaders upon their return to
Europe. Crusade was a religious adventure to regain the Holy Land from the Muslim
Invaders. These crusaders found out the advance civilization in Asia/Orient and thus
fired the imagination of the Europeans to reach Asia. Eventually, they traded with Asian
countries.
In this trade, Venetians enjoyed the monopoly. Later, the Portuguese, Spaniards
and other people of Europe began to trade with Oriental countries. As a result, there
developed a rivalry among the European Countries. In the 15 th century an important
event took place w/c led to the search for new routes. In 1453, the Turks captured the
city of Constantinople. However, they allowed the Venetians came to monopolize the
Southern Route. This Venetian monopoly led Portugal and Spain to look for another
route to the Orient for them to reach the Spice Island or Moluccas Island. Spices
became the most expensive and in demand commodity among the Europeans because
of their numerous uses such as food preservation, flavor enhancement and even
medicine. Spices became a lucrative commodity so many merchants wanted to
monopolize the distribution in the European markets.
Of all the European countries, Portugal was the first to send expedition to the
Orient. Prince Henry, the navigator wanted to make Portugal as a sea power by putting
up a maritime school that trained sailors that would later discover another sea route to
the Spice Island. Portuguese discovered the Azores Island near the coast of Africa and
Prince Henry was the one who led the expedition to Western Africa thus, his voyage
inspired other explorers to sail to the Orient. Another Portuguese navigator, Barholomeo
Diaz, discovered the Cape of Good Hope and continuing his voyage, reached Calicut,
India.
The marriage of Queen Isabela and King Ferdinand II coupled with the victory of
the Catholic monarchs over the Moors in the battle of Granada resulted in the rise of
Spain as a World power. Inspired by the success of Portugal, Spain sent an expedition
to what is now North America which was discovered by Christopher Columbus but failed
to realize that it was a new territory since he thought that it was India. Later, Amerigus
Vespucci, an Italian, was sent by the Spanish King to explore what Columbus had
found. Geographers believed that what was discovered by Amerigus was a new world
and so they named this after him: Amerigus or America.
Other discoveries followed. In 1500, Vicente Pinzon discovered what is now
Brazil. On 1573, Nuñez de Balboa crossed what is now Panama and discovered the
Pacific Ocean. These geographical discoveries led to more explorations of new lands
and to their development as colonies of European countries.

Magellan Expedition
In 1518, a Portuguese named Ferdinand Magellan proposed to King Charles V
that he could reach the Moluccas by sailing west. Unfortunately, the King of Portugal
turned down his proposal. Magellan was hurt and so he left Portugal for Spain. He seek
the help of his father – in – law, Don Juan de Aranda who occupied a high position in
the Spanish India House Trade, Magellan was able to see King Charles1 of Spain. With
the help of some illustrations, Magellan explained to the young King that he could be
able to reach the Spice Island (Moluccas Island) by sailing westward. Eventually, the
King was convinced and agreed to finance the expedition.
The expedition consisted of five ships: The Flagship Trinidad, the Concepcion,
the Victoria, the Santiago and the San Antonio. Magellan and his men heard Mass in
the Church of Santa Lucia dela Victoria, after w/c the captains and the crew of ships
took an oath of loyalty to Magellan as their commander – in – chief. On Sept. 20, 1519,
the expedition left the Port of San Lucar and sailed southward across the Atlantic. Along
the way the expedition suffered natural and man – made challenges and out of five
ships that left Spain, only three reached the Philippines.
Antonio Pigaffeta’s travelogue is one of the most important primary sources in
the study of the pre – colonial Philippines. His account was considered as major
reference to the event leading to Magellan’s arrival in the Philippines and his encounter
with local leaders. His accounts also contains data about the economic activities of the
local folks and the goods they offered for trade. He got all this information through the
help of Magellan’s interpreter, Enrique de Malacca. Pigafetta also gave an eyewitness
account of the death of Magellan in the battle of Mactan.
The report of Pigafetta is quite long and it is not presented here in its totality. The
excerpts are limited to the narration of what happened to the expedition from the time
they landed in Homonhon up to the Battle of Mactan.
Pigafetta recounted that March 17, 1521, the expedition reached the Philippines,
the feast day of St. Lazarus thereby naming the archipelago as Islas de San Lazaro. On
March 18, they landed at Homonhon to get fresh water and supplies. He called the
island as “Watering Place of Good Signs”. It is in this place where they found the first
signs of golds in the island. On March 25, Magellan and his men saw two balanghais
(balangay) – a long boat full of people in Mazzaua. The King of the balanghai sent his
men to the ship of Magellan. The Europeans entertained them. Magellan told the
interpreter that what they wanted is money for their needs and said that they came into
the islands as a friend and not as an enemy. The king responded by giving them goods.
In return, Magellan gave gifts to the King like robes, knives, red cap and mirrors. The
two expressed their desire to become brothers. Pigafetta reported that after few days,
Magellan was introduced to the King’s brother who was also king of another island. The
king was Raja Kolambu. The king of Butuan and the first king was Raja Siagu. On
March 31, Magellan ordered the Fr. Pedro Valderama to preside a mass by the shore.
After the mass, Magellan ordered that the cross, the nail and the crown were the signs
of his emperor. Once these cross is planted in their place then it is beneficial for the
natives because once other Spaniards saw this cross then they would be at peace with
them.
Magellan and his men stayed in Mazzaua in just one week due to lack of
necessary provisions. They sailed to Cebu with the help of Rajah Kolambu. Magellan
told Enrique de Malacca, to assure the people of Cebu that they came us friends and
not as enemies. The king of Cebu consulted his council. The following day Magellan’s
men and the principal men of Cebu met in an open space. There, Rajah Humabon
offered a bit of his blood and demanded that Magellan do the same. Pigafetta recounted
that the two parties drew blood from their arms and mixed it with a wine. They drink the
wine with their blood and thereby calling themselves as blood brothers, otherwise
known as sanduguan, kasi-kasi or blood compact.
Magellan asked who would succeed him; Rajah Humabon told Magellan that he
had no son, only daughters. His nephew who married his daughter was therefore the
crown prince. Rajah Humabon added that parents were no longer honored in their old
age and instead follow their children’s order. Magellan explained to the Cebuano
chieftain the Christian teaching about honoring one’s parents. This confounded Rajah
Humabon. Soon he sought to be baptize as a Christian. His Christian name was Carlos
in honor of King Charles and his wife was baptized Juana in honor of the mother of the
king. On that day, 800 inhabitants were baptized and were converted to Christianity.
After baptism, Magellan gave the image of the child Jesus to Juana as a token.
Humabon then mentioned that there are other chieftains who may want to accept
Spain’s friendship and pointed to the island of Mactan where emissaries were sent. One
of the chiefs named Zula accepted Magellan’s offer of friendship. The other ruler of
Mactan named Lapu – Lapu (also known as Kalipulako) spurned Magellan’s offer. He
decided to break – away from Rajah Humabon. On april 27, 1521, Magellan tried to
invade Mactan. He led 60 Spaniards and 1,000 Cebuano warriors. He told Rajah
Humabon and his men to stay on their boats and watch how the Europeans fight.
Magellan had underestimate the fighting skill of Mactan warriors. They repulsed
the Spanish force with their spears and bamboo stakes they aimed their spears at the
unshielded legs of the enemies. The Spaniards retreated, Pigafetta recounted.
Magellan was wounded with a poisoned armor that hit his right leg and then a
bamboo spear stuck his face. Lapu – Lapu and his fighter pounced and killed him.
The battle of Mactan was a scandalous defeat for they failed to prove themselves
to the natives that they were better combatants. The natives of Cebu were having a plan
to massacre the remaining Spaniards. This was, allegedly because of the advice of
Magellan’s interpreter so that Humabon could acquire the ships and the goods of
Magellan’s fleet. While the Europeans were attending a banquet prepared by Rajah
Humabon, the Cebuano warriors attacked them. Duarte Barbosa, a new captain of the
expedition and twenty eight other Spaniards were killed.
The remaining members of the expedition were forced to flee before the
Cebuano’s could kill them all. They burned the ship Concepcion for there could be no
enough men to operate the vessel. The remaining two ships, Trinidad and Victoria,
continued their voyage and proceeded to Moluccas.

Analysis of Pigafetta’s Chronicle

Pigafetta’s chronicle contributed a lot to European historiography since it
popularized the achievements of Magellan expedition such as;
1) For proving that the earth is not flat but an oblate sphere.
2) The Europeans stop believing on the myth that there is a boiling water at the
equator.
3) The circumnavigation of the world.
4) They were able to prove that one can go to the east by sailing west.
5) The vastness of the Pacific Ocean was discovered
6) They were able to found out that America is a separate landmass from Asia.

These discoveries altered the European map of the world and resulted in the
inclusion of new territories in their world views.
Pigafetta was able to keep a detailed journal of Magellan’s expedition from the time
it left Spain until it returned to Spain. Before returning to Spain, all his accounts were
turned over to King Charles V. When he was in Italy his contemporaries wanted him to
publish a formal account of the Magellan expedition. He did it and made a presentation
of his draft, expecting to get some financial support from the Grandmaster of the
Knights of Rhodes and the mother of King Francis I but in vain.
However in 1516, Jacques Fabre published a condensed version of Pigafetta’s
manuscript. The original manuscript are now kept in France and in Bibliotheque
Nationale in Paris. The third copy was owned by British collector Sir Thomas Philipps. In
1800, an Italian version was published by Carlo Amoretti. The following year a French
version came out and in 1819, James Alexander Robertson published the English
version.

Guide Questions:
1) Was the coming of the Spaniards to the Philippines an accident or a plan action?
Why?
2) Based on your evaluation, was the expedition successful? Why?
3) What prompted the Europeans to search new lands in the 14th to 16th century?
4) Why did the native Filipino chieftains readily accept and accommodated Magellan
and his men?
5) Who is Antonio Pigafetta? What is his role in the Magellan’s expedition?

Section 2
Customs of the Tagalog

This section shows the different practices and customs presented by Fray Juan
de Plasencia in his account, “Customs of the Tagalog”. The Tagalogs observed these
customs even before the coming of the Spaniards. This only showed that Filipinos had
already their own government, laws, judicial process, economy, social and cultural
system even before the coming of the Spaniards.
Background of the Author
Fray Juan de Placencia, a Franciscan, performed missionary and sacerdotal
duties in numerous towns in Luzon. His interaction with Tagalog converts influenced
him in writing the book las Relacion de Costumbres delos Tagalogs (Customs of the
Tagalogs) which described the political, social, economic and cultural practices of the
Filipinos. He also wrote the Doctrina Christiana en Legua Española y Tagala, the first
printed book in the Philippines. This was used as a reading material for those Filipinos
who wished to deepen their Christian faith. The work of Placencia is considered by
many historians as an example of a friar account.
Miguel de Loarca, another friar who wrote about the Philippines during the early
Spanish colonial period. He was an encomndero of Panay and wrote Relacion delas
Islas Filipinas – that describes the way of life of Filipinos living in Western Visayas.
Antonia de Morga, an assessor and teniente General who wrote Sucesos delas
Islas Filipinas – which provides valuable information about the Philippines at the latter
part of the 16th century.

Excerpts from Customs of the Tagalogs

Chronicles noted that early Filipino settlements varied in population sizes. The
unit of social organization was the barangay which was headed by the chieftain called
Datu or Rajah. Wealth, political influence and social privileges are the bases for social
stratification. The ranks are as follows; 1)Datu class – they are the ruling class,
2)Maharlika or the aristocracy, 3)Timawa – the common class and 4)Alipin – the
dependent class.
2 Kinds of Alipin
a) Aliping namamahay – are those alipin who served their master during planting
and harvesting season. They can owned property and allowed to marry even
without the consent of the master and;
b) Aliping saguiguilid – served the master the whole year round, cannot owned
property and cannot marry without his master’s consent.
The datu or rajah ruled the barangay. The term barangay came from the word
balangay, which means boat. Fr. Juan de Placencia, speculated that the role of the datu
was from the captain of the boat. Miguel de Loarca in his Relacion delas Islas Filipinas
observed that only the best warrior were obeyed. The datu exercised executive judicial
and military functions.
The Spanish chroniclers recounted that early Filipinos were having their own laws.
Laws were either customary or written. Customary laws were handed down orally from
generation to generation and constituted the bulk of the laws of the barangay. Written
laws were promulgated by the chieftain and the elders. Example of written laws were;
Code of Kalantiyaw, Maragtas Code and Muslim Laws.
How a Law was made?
When the chieftain wanted to enact laws, he called the elders of the barangay
and told them what he had in mind. Once the elders approved his plan, a public
announcer called Umalohokan, was summoned and ordered to go around the
barangay to announce the promulgation of the new rules and regulations. With a bell in
one hand, the Umalohokan called the attention of the barangay folks by ringing the bell
furiously. The people gathered around him and heard from him the provision of the new
law. Anybody violating the law was promptly arrested and brought before the chieftain to
be judged according to the merits of the case.
Judicial Process
Disputes are inevitable among the early Filipinos but these disputes were
decided peacefully through a “court” composed of a chieftain as judge and barangay
elders as jury.
Trials were held publicly and decisions are rendered sooner thereby avoiding
what is now known as “justice delayed is justice denied”. At that time, there were no
lawyers yet, all trials were conducted immediately. The accuser and the accused faced
each other with their respective witnesses. To show their honesty and sincerity, took an
oath to this effect like; May the crocodile devour me if I tell any falsehood, may the
lightning strike me if I don’t tell the truth, may I die here and now if I tell a lie and may
the sun and the moon frown upon me. Most of the time the disputant with more
witnesses to his side was adjudged the winner.
Another way of determining the innocence or guilt of the accused trial by ordeal
was resorted. Several ordeals were adopted such as;
1) River ordeal- suspects were asked to plunged into the river, whoever comes to
the surface first was adjudged guilty.
2) Boiling water – suspects were ordered to get the stone from the container of a
boiling water whose hand was most damaged was regarded as the guilty.
3) Lighted candle – suspects were asked to hold the lighted candle whose candle
put – off first was the culprit and lastly;
4) Uncooked rice – here, the suspects were requested to chew the uncooked rice,
after chewing they were asked to spit whose saliva came out the thickest was
adjudged guilty. These trial was resorted for the reason that God in his infinite
wisdom and mercy will always protect the innocent.
Clothing and Ornaments
Early Filipinos made their own garments which were woven from abaca and
cotton. The men wore kanggan (a collarless jacket) and bahag (G – string) or a piece of
cloth which was wrapped around the waist and unto the thighs.
The woman wore an upper garment called baro or camisa and saya (skirt) in the
lower part. They also wore putong or headgear. Weapons were part of the male dress
which consisted of a dagger tucked into the pants.
 Tattoos were part of the body ornaments of the early Filipinos, men and women
alike. These were also sported as war “medals”. The more tattoos, the more impressive
was a man’s war record. The Visayans were the most tattooed thereby calling them as
“pintados” or “painted people”
Religion
The Filipinos believe in the existence of a hierarchy of Gods. Bathala was the
supreme god, the creator of heavens and earth and man. There were lesser gods and
goddesses like Ikapate – God of agriculture, Diyan Masalanta – god of love, Balangaw
– god of war, Lalahon – god of hell w/c was called siginarungan; Idiyanale – god of
death, Agni – god of fire and Wayen – god of harvest and the host of other gods.
The ancient Filipinos believed in the immortality of the soul and in the life after
death. After death, the soul would travel to another world to receive due reward or
punishment. The good soul would go to Kaluwalhatian (state of bliss) according to
Tagalogs. The bad soul would go to place of doom called Kasamaan. The abstract idea
of religion was concretely shown in sculptured objects known as likha or larawan,
reverently worshipped by the natives.
Subsistence Economies
The early Filipinos taught their children how to endure life’s challenges. The
father trained their sons in hunting, fishing, timber – cutting, mining and agriculture. On
the other hand, the mothers trained their daughters to do household tasks like cooking,
gardening and sewing.
Agriculture was the main source of living of the early Filipinos. The staple food
consisted of millet, rice and root crops. Rice was preferred but in many places
inhabitants could not grow it for a year’s supply. In some areas rice was a special food
eaten during on special occasions only. Possession of excess rice in one’s home is
considered as a sign of affluence.
Fishing was done with hook and line, nets and traps. Among the Tagalogs the
weir net or salambao was used. In some areas poison made from certain plants like the
berries of the tubli.
Dogs were used in hunting. Usually, the dogs would corner the large beast like a
boar and bite one of the limbs until the hunter will finish it off with a spear. Animals are
also caught with traps called balatiks w/c were wooden pales with a spring and a shaft
that is released when triggered.
In many provinces, winemaking is an age – old enterprise. Their most popular
wine was the tuba, made from the sap of coconut or nipa palms. The other wines
manufactured in the islands were basi- an Ilocano wine from sugarcane juice, pangasi-a
Visayan wine made from rice, Lambanog – a tagalog wine produced by distillation of
tuba, and the Tapuy – an Igorot wine made from rice.
Relevance
Placencia’s Customs of the Tagalog is very significant as it describes the way of
life of the early Filipinos before the arrival of the Spaniards. We learned from Placencia
that preaching should be coupled with reading materials that contain the basic elements
of faith.
Placencia’s account rebutted the claim of some Spaniards that when they arrived
in the Philippines, Filipinos were still uncivilized and lacking in culture. Based on
Placencia’s excerpts that the Tagalogs were already politically and economically
organized. Most importantly, Placencia recounted that early Filipino had a concept of a
supreme being and believed in life after death. He also mentioned that people wore
garments and ornaments. Therefore, it is very clear that Filipinos were already civilized
before the Spanish arrival in the Philippines.

Guide Questions:
1) Give three reasons why Placencia’s Customs of the Tagalogs is important to the
grand narrative of the Philippine history?
2) Describe the community of the Tagalogs prior to the arrival of the Spaniards and
the Christianization of Filipinos in term of :
a) Religious practices
b) Concept of marriage and family
c) Laws and political system
d) Economic system
3) Who is Fr. Juan de Placencia? How did he describe the hierarchy of people in
the barangay?
Section 3
The Kartilya of the Katipunan

This section shed the light on Emilio Jacinto’s Kartilya ng katipunan which
enumerates the guidelines that new members of the Katipunan have to follow. The
Kartilya served as the guide of the Katipunan. It contains thirteen “teachings” that the
members were required to adhere to.
Background of the Author

Historians regard Emilio Jacinto as the “Brains of the Katipunan”. Artemio Ricarte
called him “the Moses of Filipino people” while Epifanio delos Santos considered him as
“the Soul of the Revolution” and the “Eyes of the Katipunan”. Generally, he was known
as the “brains of the Katipunan”. He studied law at the University of Santo Tomas.
He joined the Katipunan in 1894 and used the name, “Pingkian” and “Dimasilaw”.
He was the fiscal, secretary, editor and later became the general of the Katipunan. He
then became an adviser to the Supremo.
 Historical Context
The radical ones led by Andres Bonifacio believed that the welfare of the people
could not be achieved by just requesting reforms from the Spanish authorities but by an
armed revolution. This goal was transformed from assimilation, which was the objective
of the members of the Propaganda Movement to separation and then independence.
They decided to form a secret revolutionary society, w/c was patterned after the
Masonic Order called Kataastaasan Kagalang – galangan Katipunan ng mga Anak ng
Bayan (Highest and Respected Society of the Sons of the People) otherwise known as
KKK or Katipunan, dedicated to national independence through armed revolution.
Aside from the maltreatment experience by Filipinos from the Spaniards, the
following are the other factors that were influential in the forming of the Katipunan and
that of the Kartilya: 1) the age of enlightenment 2) the French revolution 3) Masonry
4)the Propaganda Movement and the La Liga Filipina.
In the conduct of their struggle, Katipunan, created a complex structure and a
defined value system that would guide the organization in aspiring for a single goal. One
of the most important Katipunan document was the Kartilya ng Katipunan or Kartilla, a
word adopted from the Spanish cartilla w/c at that time meant a primer for grade school
students. Bonifacio recognized the value and intellect of Emilio Jacinto that is why he
asked him to prepare an official teachings e.g. Kartilla and copies were distributed to
their fellow Katipuneros.
The Kartilla can be treated as the Katipunan’s code of conduct. It has thirteen
rules that instruct the way a Katipunero should behave. There are two classifications of
the teaching of Kartilla; 1) the rules that make the member an upright individual and 2)
the rules that will guide the way one should treat his fellowmen. The primer constituted
the following;
I. Life that is not consecrated to lofty and sacred purpose is like a tree without a
shadow; if not a poisonous weed
II. A good deed that springs from a desire for personal profit and not from a desire to
do good is not kindness
III. True greatness consists in being charitable, in loving one’s fellowmen, and in
adjusting every movement, deed and word to the true reason
IV. All men are equal; be the color of their skin, black or white. One may be superior in
knowledge, wealth, and beauty, but cannot be superior in being
V. He who is noble prefers honor for personal gains; he who is mean prefers personal
profit to honor
VI. To a man with a sense of shame, his word is inviolate
VII. Do not fritter away time; lost riches may be recovered but time lost will never come
again
VIII. Defend the oppressed and fight the oppressor
IX. An intelligent man is he who is cautious in speech and he knows how to keep the
secrets that must be guarded
X. In thorny path of life, man is the guide of his wife and children; if he who guides
moves towards evil, they who are guided likewise move towards evil
XI. Think not of woman as a thing merely to while away time with, but as a helper and
partner in the hardships of life. Respect her in her weakness, remember the mother
who brought you into this world and who cared for you in your childhood.
XII. What you do not want done to your wife, daughter and sister, do not do to the wife,
daughter and sister of another.
XIII. The nobility of man does not consist of being a king, nor in the highness of the nose
and the whiteness of the skin, nor in being a priest representing a God, nor in the
exalted position in this earth, but pure and highly noble is he who, though born in the
woods, possessed an upright character.
As a primary governing document, which determines the rules of conduct in the
Katipunan, properly understanding the Kartilla will thus help in understanding the
values, ideals, aspiration and even the ideology of the organization.

Relevance

The relevance of the Kartilla does not only apply to the Katipuneros but the
established rules and principles are intended for all the citizens. Though, it was written
in the 19th century, the Kartilla is even important to the lives of the modern Filipinos
specifically in today’s crisis (COVID) that we ought to do something to be able to extend
help to others in our own little ways.

Guide Questions:
1. Out of thirteen rules of Kartilla, choose at least two and explain their significance
in maintaining a peaceful and orderly community
2. As a student, how will you embody the main teachings and guiding principles of
the Kartilla? Concretize your answer and cite specific lines from the document.
3. Why Andres Bonifacio chose to adopt the Kartilla of Emilio Jacinto instead of his
draft of the “Decalogue”?
4. What are the reasons why the Kartilla is important to the grand narrative of
Philippine history?
5. Considering the present circumstances in the Philippines today, do you think the
provisions of the Kartilla could help in addressing our problems? Cite an example
and defend your answer.
 Section 4: The Act of Proclamation of Philippine Independence of the Filipino
People
This section focuses on the Act of the Declaration of Philippine Independence
authored by Ambrosio Rienzares Bautista. It mentioned the different important aspects
of the actual declaration such as the national author and the waving of the national flag.

Background of the Author

Ambrosio Rienzares Bautista (also known as “Don Bosyong”) studied law at the
University of Santo Tomas and earned his degree when he was 35 years old. He
became the first adviser of President Emilio Aguinaldo in 1898. It was also Ambrosio
Bautista who was tasked by Emilio Aguinaldo to prepare the Act of the Declaration of
Independence and during the proclamation he was the one who read the act.

Historical Context
The struggle between the Spaniards and Emilio Aguinaldo’s revolutionary forces
ended when Governor – General Primo de Rivera sent Pedro Paterno (a mestizo) to
Biyak na Bato for peaceful negotiations.
This negotiation is known as the Pact of Biyak – na – Bato which resulted to the
voluntary exile of Emilio Aguinaldo and the revolutionary officials to Hongkong. In line
with this agreement, the Spaniards paid ₱800,000 to Aguinaldo in two installment basis;
1) ₱400,000 will be given to Emilio Aguinaldo upon their departure and another 2)
₱400,000, would be given to the combatant Filipinos if they could surrender at least 700
pieces of firearms and ₱900,000 will be given to the non – combatants during the
proclamation of the general amnesty.
While Aguinaldo was in Hongkong, he was met by an American consul E.
Spencer Pratt in Singapore who told him that Mr. Aguinaldo the U.S. President had just
made a solemn declaration to recognize Cuban independence. Cuba is at our door,
while Philippines is 10,000 miles away. He also met the American consul in Hongkong
Rounseville Wildman who told him that Mr. Aguinaldo, you should go back to the
Philippines and established a dictatorial government necessary in the prosecution of
war against Spain and further instructed to Aguinaldo that after the war you should
establish a government similar to the United States. Before leaving Hongkong,
Aguinaldo gave ₱117,000 to Wildman for the purchase of rifles and ammunitions. The
first shipment of ₱50,000 was made but the remaining half was never delivered nor was
given back to Aguinaldo
On May 19, 1898, Aguinaldo returned back to the Philippines on board the U.S.
cruise McCulloch. From his headquarters in Cavite he announced for the resumption of
war against Spain which marked the second phase of the revolution
On May 24, Aguinaldo announced the creation of a dictatorial government
thereby giving him the title as a “dictator” Aguinaldo established this new government in
order to unite the revolutionary forces and it was necessary to carry out the war
successfully. This government was temporary and will only last until a republic is
established.
With the Filipino government in operation, Aguinaldo thought that it would be best
to declare the independence of the country. With the belief that people will work hard to
protect their independence and give some contributions to the stability of the newly
established government.
On June 5, Aguinaldo ordered that June 12 will be set aside for the proclamation
of independence. To make the event memorable, he asked Julian Felipe to prepare a
composition to be played during the independence ceremonies. Six days later, Julian
Felipe presented his composition entitled “Marcha Filipina Magdalo” which later change
to “Marcha Nacional Filipina”. On June 12,1898, Aguinaldo proclaimed the
independence of the Philippines at Kawit Cavite. The Phil. Flag made by Marcelal
Agoncillo with the assistance of Delfina Herbosa and Lorenza Agoncillo, was officially
hoisted for the first time. The Act of the Declaration of Independence was prepared and
read by Ambrosio Reinzares Bautista. After the celebration of the Philippine
Independence Bautista was replaced by Apolinario Mabini being the official adviser of
Emilio Aguinaldo. Some of his enemies called him the Dark Chamber of the President
but his friends called him “brains of the revolution”. The declaration was signed by 98
people with one American Colonel L.M Johnson

Relevance
The proclamation of Philippine Independence was a turning point in the history of
our country because it signaled the end of 333 years of Spanish colonization. The
Declaration was the document that proves the value Filipinos place on their freedom.
The proclamation must be understood that the independence was attained in 1898 with
the death of many Filipino in attaining it. Therefore, citizens today must protect and
preserved such independence.

Guide Questions
1. What role did the Americans play before the proclamation of the Philippine
Independence?
2. According to the declaration, how did the Spanish colonization end?
3. Why did Emilio Aguinaldo decide to declare Philippine independence although
Apolinario Mabini was against it?
4. Who made the Philippine flag? What is the meaning of each feature or symbol
such as; white triangle, three stars, eight rays of the sun.
MIDTERM

COVERAGE
 Section 5: Speech of President Corazon Aquino before the Joint Session of the
United States Congress
This section focused about the speech of Cory Aquino in the U.S. Congress that
transpired on September 18, 1986. The members of the Congress gave her due
recognition of the peaceful EDSA revolution that ousted President Ferdinand Marcos
and paved the way for Corazon Aquino to become the president.
Background of the Author
Maria Corazon “Cory” Cojuangco Aquino became the president of the Philippines
because of the 1986 EDSA revolution – the non – violent revolution that ousted
President Ferdinand E. Marcos. She was the wife of the assassinated opposition leader
during Martial Law period, Benigno “Ninoy” Aquino Jr. In 1986, The Time Magazine
afforded her the title as the “Women of the Year”. She was also chosen by the same
magazine as one of the twenty (20) most influential Asians of the 20 th century. Before
becoming the president, she was never been an elected government official.
Historical Context
Since 1969, President Ferdinand Marcos occupied the highest position of the
government being the president, although the constitution clearly limits his term of office
for only six years. In the case of Marcos, he was able to stay in power for twenty one
(21) long years. This became possible due to the following reasons; first, when on Sept.
21, 1973 he proclaimed martial law and secondly when the 1973 constitution was
promulgated which established a modified parliamentary system. Marcos acted as the
Prime Minister – as the head of the government and at the same time the president as a
ceremonial head of State. Both were to be elected by the unicameral National Assembly
or Batasang Pambansa.
Several opposition groups including the church hierarchy wanted to end up
martial law. Rebels in the cities carried out series of bombings in defiance of military
rule.
On January 17, 1981, Proclamation No. 2045 was issued which ended the
martial law period in the country. Changes in 1981 like the lifting of Martial Law
eventually gave birth to the new Republic e.g. the Fourth Republic. Then, there was a
scheduled presidential election on June 16, 1981, and as expected Marcos won for
another six – years term in office
On August 21,1983, Ninoy Aquino, Cory Aquino’s husband returned back to
Manila after his 3 years exile in the U.S. but was assassinated at Tarmac’s Airport (the
old name of Ninoy Aquino International Airport or NAIA). The number one suspect in his
killing were the family members of Marcos and his cronies. Thousands of Filipinos
sympathized the bereaved family and it was manifested during Aquino’s burial since
many joined the funeral march. The death of Ninoy instigated the Filipinos to fight the
evils of the dictatorship:
 In 1985, the Philippine political and economic condition worsened. Foreign
investors were afraid to expand their business due to political instability. Rallies and
demonstrations made by anti – Marcos groups greatly affects the tourism industry.
The U.S. government advised Marcos to call for a Snap Presidential Election for
him to prove his mandate over the Filipino people. In connection with this idea, Marcos
announced on American and local television that he would hold a snap election of
February 7, 1986.
Several opposition leaders wanted to run for presidency and one of them was
Salvador Laurel. But majority of the opposition leaders proposed that the best candidate
against Marcos was Cory Aquino. Cory Aquino promised the oppositions that she will
run provided that one million Filipinos will sign a petition urging her to run.
In the official tallies of the COMELEC which was certified by the Batasang
Pambansa, the Marcos – Tolentino ticket won. But based on the (NAMFREL) or
(National Movement for Free Election), with their QUICK COUNT operation, Aquino and
Laurel had a margin of around 800,000 votes against Marcos.
Report of fraud, massive vote buying and ballot switching were happening during
the snap election. There were thirty tabulators who walked out protesting that the results
were being manipulated.
The Catholic Bishops’ Conference of the Philippines (CBCP) issued a pastoral
letter on Feb. 15, 1986 to be read in all catholic churches stating that the government
lost its moral basis due to electoral fraud.
On February 22, 1986, the two highest military officials, Juan Ponce Enrile and
Fidel Ramos in the press conference announced their withdrawal of support for Marcos.
Enrile admitted that it was Cory Aquino who won against Marcos.
The following day, the Marcos loyalist troops under General Ver prepared to
attack thousands of people who went to EDSA. The soldiers were not able to carry their
plan because of the people blocking the way. Guns and tanks were met with rosaries,
flowers, sandwiches and a glass of hot coffee from the demonstrators.
Marcos was advised by U.S. Senator Paul Laxalt to step down and leave
Malacañang. The U.S. military planes brought Marcos and his family to Honolulu,
Hawaii. That was the end of despotic administration of Marcos.
On Feb. 25, 1986, Cory Aquino took her oath of office at Club Filipino and
worked for the reorganization of government. It was clear that Cory Aquino’s
government was classified as revolutionary government since she was placed in her
position not in accordance with the Constitution but because of the People’s Power or
EDSA Revolution. Generally, a revolutionary government is classified as de facto
(illegal) but the government of Cory Aquino gained a de jure (legal) status due to; 1)
general support of the Filipino people and 2) support of the members of the family of
nations.
Filipinos became so famous after the EDSA Revolution for being a peace –
loving people in the world since there was no bloodshed whatsoever. The People Power
Revolution caught the imagination of the world but for Cory Aquino there was a hard
task to do. It was not easy to lead the country that had been badly damaged
economically and politically, on September 1986, Cory went to the United States for
state visit where she delivered her speech asking the U.S. Congress for financial
support to the Philippines and conferred with then President Ronald Reagan. It was a
nine day visit by which Cory was able to convince American businessmen to invest in
the Philippines.
Seven months after Cory Aquino assumed office, she was invited to speak
before the joints session of the U.S. Congress. He asked her executive Secretary
Teodoro “Teddy Boy” Locsin Jr, to prepare her speech but only half was done so it was
Cory Aquino who finished the draft of her speech which she delivered for half an hour
and was even interrupted with several applauses and it ended with a standing ovation
by the senators and congressmen.
Cory began her speech with the story of her stay with her family in the United
States for three years before the death of Ninoy Aquino. She mentioned the character
and strong conviction of Ninoy to free the people from the dictatorial regime of Marcos.
She attributed the peaceful EDSA revolution to the martyrdom of Ninoy. His death
sparked the revolution and the responsibility of offering the democratic alternatives.
In her speech, Cory mentioned her miraculous victory against the powerful
dictator through people’s help and sacrifices. Cory stressed, the importance of EDSA
revolution w/c she called as “limited revolution” – that give so much respect to the life
and freedom of the Filipinos. She wanted to restore the constitutional government that
will give utmost respect to the Bill of Rights. In her peace agenda, Cory wants to
persuade the rebels to leave the countryside and return to the mainstream society for
them to participate in the restoration of democracy.
She then mentioned about the controversial topic of the Philippines foreign debt
of $26 billion. She recognized it although the Filipinos did not benefit from it. She even
remarked that of all the revolution that happens throughout the world the EDSA
revolution have been the cheapest revolution every by which the Filipino people fulfilled
the most difficult condition of the debt negotiation e.g. the restoration of democracy and
responsible government.
She finished her speech by thanking America for being the home of her family for
three years. She invited the Americans in rebuilding the Philippines as a new home for
democracy.

Relevance
Cory Aquino’s speech was a significant event because it cemented the legitimacy
of the People’s Power government in the international venue. In her speech Cory
Aquino always mentioned her husband Ninoy Aquino, her relationship to him, the
influence and the suffering instilled by him to fight against the dictatorship. She pointed
out, the legacies and lessons of the life of her husband. Cory Aquino’s speech proved
that change was possible through peaceful means. Another relevance of her speech
was the unanimous approval of the members of the House of Representative of
extending $200 million dollars as an emergency aid for the Philippines.
Guide Questions
1. Identify (3) points highlighted by Cory Aquino in her speech before the U.S.
Congress. Explain their significance
2. Interview at least two individuals who can be considered as primary sources on
the positive contributions of Cory Aquino to the Philippines. Provide the given
testimonials and the names of the account witnesses.
3. Watch the speech of Cory Aquino. How did the audience react to her half – hour
long address?
4. What was in her speech that convinced the members of the House of Congress
to grant $200 million dollars as an emergency aid to the Philippines?
5. What are the points in her speech that you agree and disagree with? Why?

Lesson 6: Artworks
The Philippines was in a better condition under the Americans compared to the
Spaniards but freedom was not absolutely and immediately afforded to the Filipinos. To
illustrate the changes under the American rule some Americans and Filipinos used
political cartoons which was a subtle way of expressing their discontent with the new
colonizers.
Background of the Authors
During the American regime, political cartoons were popular in expressing the
people’s complaint and exposing the ills of the American administration. Alfredo McCoy
and Alfredo Reyes Roces compiled many political cartoons by Filipino artists depicting
the Philippines during American rules.
Alfred McCoy, was born on June 8, 1945 in Massachussets, U.S.A. He earned
his BA in European Studies, finished MA in Asian Studies and his PhD in Southeast
Asian history at Yale University. He focused in studying the Philippine political
caricatures for him to understand the social and political context of the Filipinos. He did
not create his own political caricatures but was interested to compile those from various
sources and thereby being able to produce a single collection known as Philippine
Cartoons: Political Caricature of the American Era.
Alfredo Reyes Roces, was a painter, an essayist and a versatile artist. He was
considered a prominent figure in Philippine art. He started with figurative style in his
painting but later improved it and began to adopt another style and began to be an
expressionist, fauvist and impressionist.
Historical Background of Political Cartoons
Cartoons became an effective tool of publicizing opinions by the use of
symbolism. There was a unique way that a caricature represents opinion that captured
the imagination of the people, the reason why historians had to examine those cartoons.
The following are the selected cartoons with an explained context;
1) The Independent on May 20, 1916
- This cartoon shows a politician named Dr. Santos who passed his crown to
his brother – in – law Dr. Barcelona. A Filipino guy was trying to stop telling
the former not to give the crown.
2) A cartoon from the magazine Lipang – Kalabaw (July 27, 1907)
- This depicted the parade of Filipinos who celebrated the victory of their
popular candidate, Fernando Ma. Guerrero who was given the seat in the
Philippine Assembly (Lower House). This greatly bothered the Americans
seeing the massive support of the Filipino towards their fellowmen. The
Americans were affected by the Filipino act to display banners and flags. On
Aug. 23, 1907, the Philippine Commission (Upper House) promulgated Act
No. 1696 w/c was known as the Flag Law – which prohibit the public display
of the Philippine flag and other patriotic banners.
3) Another cartoons appear in the booklet watch for the Saboteurs sponsored by
the League of Women Voters.
- This booklet was criticized by President Elpidio Quirino by saying that the
booklet was defective.
Relevance
The Spanish colonial period in the Philippines was marked by strict censorship,
the reason why Filipinos were not given the chance to express themselves politically.
Censorship was loosened when the American civil government was established.
Changes in culture, society and politics can be seen in the illustrations and cartoons.
The transition of the American colonial period provided the Filipinos the chance
to publish an independent newspaper. The four decades of the American colonial rule
became a formative period in the Philippine History.
Whenever the Americans felt offended with the publications made by the
Filipinos they had laws promulgated to stop the developing hostilities such as; 1)
Sedition Law – w/c imposed death penalty or a long imprisonment for the Filipinos who
advocated separation from the U.S. even by peaceful means. 2) Brigandage Act – w/c
punished death penalty or 20 years imprisonment for members of armed group and the
3) Flag Law – prohibits the display of the Philippine flag.
The selected cartoons illustrates the Philippine society, it paints the broad image
of politics under the Americans. The other cartoon showed how Americans controlled
the Filipinos through harmless weapon e.g. controlling their consciousness and
mentality. The reason why Filipinos are now known as a little brown Americans in Asia
since they can act, think and speak like an Americans.
Guide Questions
1) Make your own caricature depicting any present political and economic situation
in the Philippines. Make a short explanation for the symbolism that you used.
2) Why political cartoons important to the grand narrative of Philippine history?
3) Create your own comic strip with three scenes depicting any present political,
economic and social issue in the Philippines. Make it humorous. For more
examples. You may access to this website https://deadbalagtas.wordpress.com

MODULE 3 – ANALYZING PRIMARY SOURCES

This module will focus on the different events of history such as; The First Cry of
Revolution, the Tejeros Convention and The Retraction of Jose Rizal. Each event had
two or more participants or eyewitnesses who gave their own specific accounts. And
this is where the problem comes in of w/c account should we believe. Yes, there is one
past but there could be many histories. Conflicting views exists but this can be a
challenged to take in the study of historical sources by analyzing how different
perspective being come up with these eyewitnesses.

Section 1: The First Cry of the Revolution (August 1896)

The Philippine Revolution of 1896 was popularly known as the “First Cry”. This
was the first move of the Filipino to commence the revolution for independence. It took
place after the Spanish authorities discovered the existence of a secret revolutionary
government or Katipunan.
The controversy regarding this event existed in identifying the date and place,
when or where the cry happened. There are three eyewitnesses of the event who cited
different dates and place where the event took place.
1) Dr. Pio Valenzuela

He was one of the officials of Katipunan and a confidante of Andres Bonifacio -

the founder of the Katipunan. He was present during the event and published his
account as “Memoirs of Revolution”. According to Valenzuela, the first cry of revolution
took place at Pugadlawin, in the storehouse and yard of Juan Ramos, the son of
Melchora Aquino, who later became the mother of Katipunan on August 23, 1896.
Those present were tearing their cedulas and shouted, “Long Live the Philippines”.
2) Santiago Alvarez – one of the leaders of the Cavite Revolution

The account of Santiago Alvarez was published in the weekly Tagalog magazine
Sampaguita. The series was later published as a book entitled “The Katipunan and the
Revolution”, which was translated to English by Paula Carolina Malay. Based on this
account, The First Cry happened in “Bahay Toro” on August 24, 1896. There were
tumultuous shouts for those who were there “Long Live the Sons of the People”.
 3) Guillermo Masangkay – he was a friend and fellow Katipunero of Andres
Bonifacio.

The Sunday Tribune magazine made an interview to Masangkay in which he

recounted that the First Cry of Revolution happened in Balintawak on August 26, 1896.
He said that people who present in the said event pulled out their cedulas and tore them
to pieces. Accordingly, it was the beginning of the formal declaration of war by the
Filipinos against the Spaniards.
Guide Questions:
1. Explain the significance of cedulas during the Spanish period. What does it signify
when the Filipinos tore them out.
2. How does the National Historical Commission of the Philippines verify the accounts
given by these three eyewitnesses.
3. Why are these three witnesses cited different dates and place of the “First Cry”?

Watch the video entitled “Xiao Time: Ang Unang SIgaw ng Himagsikan sa
Balintawak, Kalookan posted by PTV and answer these questions: Is there a chance
that all sources are valid? Why?

Section 2: The Tejeros Assembly

When Emilio Aguinaldo joined the Katipunan, he was able to show his competent
as a revolutionary leader particularly in Cavite. Most of the fight or actual combat
headed by him Filipino forces rose as victors against the Spaniards. They were able to
subdue the Spanish forces by surprise and eventually been able to take control of the
provinces. This victory gave fame to Emilio Aguinaldo particularly in Cavite the reason
why the Caviteños wanted to change the Katipunan leadership from Andres Bonifacio to
Emilio Aguinaldo. It resulted to the division of the Katipunan into two factions.
Magdiwang – which was headed by Mariano Alvarez and they supported Andres
Bonifacio and Magdalo – which was led by Baldomero Aguinaldo. Since this faction
happened in Cavite so from Manila, Bonifacio went there to pacify their conflict and
some disagreements.
The Magdalo group wanted to change the Katipunan into another name since it
was already discovered by the Spanish authorities therefore, it ceased to be a secret
society and it is no longer responding to the demands of the time. The Magdiwang
group insisted that there is no need to create a new revolutionary government for the
reason that the Katipunan has already its own Constitution and by – laws.
Unfortunately for Andres Bonifacio he returned back to Manila empty handed
because there was no tangible result of his visit in Cavite. But the two groups agreed to
meet again to discuss the same issues at Tejeros. Three witnesses presented their own
accounts of what transpired during the Tejeros Convention. They are;
Artemio Ricarte
He was one of the officials of the Magdiwang group. He acted as the secretary of
the Tejeros Convention, when Andres Bonifacio took over Jacinto Lambreras as the
presiding officer. He was elected Captain – General of the new gov’t. established at
Tejeros Convention. Ricarte’s memoires entitled “Himagsikan ng mga Pilipino Laban sa
Kastila” was published in Yokohoma, Japan in 1927..
Based on Ricarte’s account, the Tejeros Convention was conducted on March
22, 1897 at Tejeros estate house. When the session was opened it was presided by
Jacinto Lumbreras from Magdiwang faction. The floor was first given to Severino delas
Alas, also from Magdiwang. He raise the motion that before discussing the defense of
the small piece of territory in Cavite, it is necessary to consider the kind of government
of the revolutionary forces. This motion resulted to the hated arguments among the
ranks of the Katipuneros. Jacinto Lumbreras sensed the seriousness of the matter calls
for a recess.
After an hour, Bonifacio was requested by Lumbreras to continue the convention
in as much as it is called to resolve the issue of whether or not a new government will
be established. The opening statement of Andres Bonifacio was; as you wish to
establish a new government and I being the President of the Supreme Council of the
Katipunan will agree to your petition but may I remind you of the two most important
principle 1) respect whatever be the decision of the majority and 2) Whoever be elected
to any position should be respected. Those who were present unanimously conform the
principles laid down by Andres Bonifacio. Eventually, the Philippine Republic was
agreed upon which was immediately followed by an election: Emilio Aguinaldo was
chosen as the president though he was not present in assembly since he was
commanding the Filipino forces in attacking the Spanish forces.
Severino delas Alas suggested that Andres Bonifacio be automatically the Vice –
President since he garnered the second largest number of votes in the election for
president but nobody supported him. Therefore, Andres Bonifacio ordered the
continuation of election. Mariano Trias was elected Vice – President; Captain General
Artemio Ricarte, Director of War – Emiliano Riego de Dios and the Director of the
Interior was Andres Bonifacio.
Daniel Tirona from Magdalo, objected the election of Andres Bonifacio by saying
that the position given to him was so important and this should be afforded to those who
have a lawyer’s degree. Tirona even pointed out that it shoud be Atty. Jose del Rosario
that must occupy the position.
Bonifacio was humiliated and said, have we not agreed that we shall respect the
will of the majority. He even demanded Daniel Tirona to apologize but instead Tirona
walked out and due to Bonifacio’s anger he almost fire a shot to Tirona. When almost
everybody were leaving the room, Bonifacio shouted at the top of his voice saying: I, as
the president of this assembly and I as the president of the Supreme Council for the
Katipunan as you all know, declare this assembly closed, and annul everything that has
been done here.
Andres Bonifacio
His account was from the letter he wrote to Emilio Jacinto on April 24, 1897. It
was first published in Jose P. Santos, Si Andres Bonifacio at Ang Himagsikan.
According to Bonifacio, majority of those who were present at Tejeros
Convention wanted to establish a new government of the revolutionary forces, but I told
them that it is not possible since representatives from other towns are absent – a
condition that was already agreed during the first assembly in Imus, Cavite but they just
ignored the previous agreement. So, Bonifacio just abide the will of the majority. They
promised that whatever decisions that come up by many, it will always prevail and be
respected by all.
Republic of the Philippines was the new government. The elected President was
Emilio Aguinaldo, Vice President, Mariano Trias, Auditor, General, Artemio Ricarte;
Director of War, Emiliano Riego de Dios. The elections were held through the
expressions of those who were present or “viva voche”. I was elected Director of the
Interior but Daniel Tirona made an objection and said that Jose Del Rosario be chosen
because the position should be given to those who have a lawyers’ degree. I answered
back that good and educated men are needed for all the positions and asked Tirona of
who among the elected are already competent in their positions, but he began to shout;
Let us agree to choose Atty. Jose del Rosario as the Director of the Interior. He did it for
four times. Because of the tumult, I made an announcement that this assembly was the
idea of those with evil intentions. I even added that if they wished I will point out one by
one the evil plans these people had to penned me down. Then the assembly answered,
it is no longer necessary. Then, I told them that what was approved in the assembly
should not be followed. Those elected are no longer be recognized. I was seconded by
General Artemio Ricarte stating that their assembly was the result of bad intentions.

Santiago Alvarez
Like Artemio RIcarte, Alvarez was also a direct participant and witness of the
election during the Tejeros Convention. His account is found in Chapter 32 of General
Santiago Alvarez’s memoirs.
Alvarez recounted that the conventions was convened on March 25, 1897. It was
Jacinto Lumbreras, the presiding officer who declared the opening of the assembly and
announced the main topic of the discussion on how to improve the defense in the areas
under Magdiwang Control. It was Severino delas Alas from Magdiwang who first given
the chance to talk. He said that before the discussion of minor details, let us decide of
whether or not a new government be establish. After which the minor problems will be
discussed and be resolved.
Lumbreras replied, the Katipunan now holds authority and it has already a
government of law and definite programs. It is recognized and respected by all because
it stands for freedom, brotherly love and well organized government. There was a
hatred arguments among the Katipuneros the reason why Jacinto Lumbreras called for
a recess.
 After the break, some wanted to adjourn but Andres Bonifacio would like to
pursue it. However, the presiding officer, Jacinto Lumbreras refuse to continue to
preside the assembly. But he proposed that the right person to act as the presiding
officer should be Bonifacio. It was readily accepted by him but remind the people that
everybody must respect and abide the wishes of the majority.
Because of the repeated request for the establishment of a new government,
Andres Bonifacio acceded to the will of majority. The Philippine Republic was then
established. It was immediately proceeded with an election. Emilio Aguinaldo was
elected president. Vice – President; Mariano Trias, Captain General was Artemio
Ricarte, Director of war was Emilio de Dios and the Director of the Interior was Andres
Bonifacio.
The election of Bonifacio was greatly protested by Daniel Tirona from Magdalo
faction by saying that the choice for the last position must be reconsidered for he has no
credentials to show his college degree and the position should be given to those who
has a lawyer’s diploma. Then in a loud voice, Tirona shouted. Let us elect Jose del
Rosario, a lawyer.
Greatly embarrassed, Bonifacio quickly stood up and said, we agreed to follow
the will of the majority and accept its choice whatever the status of life of the person
being elected. Then, Bonifacio demanded from Tirona to ask him an apology. Instead of
replying, Tirona just ignored Bonifacio and perhaps because of fear, he immediately
walked out.
Bonifacio adjourned the meeting with these words; In my capacity as a chairman
of this convention and as a President of the Supreme Council of the Katipunan, I hereby
declare null and void what has been approved and transpired in this assembly.
Guide Questions:
1. What are the similarities and differences among the three accounts?
2. How can the three accounts contribute to the establishment of the First Philippine
Republic?
3. Why did Andres Bonifacio declare the election results as null and void?
4. Trace the emergence of the two Katipunan Factions.

Section 3: The Retraction of Jose Rizal

In the study of the life, works and writings of the national hero, we have to
consider the pressing issues as to the veracity of the acts performed by Rizal a few
moments before his execution, specifically, his reconciliation with the Catholic Church
and his abjuration of masonry which is otherwise known as “retraction”. The following
questions must be answered by analyzing the account given by some witnesses. Did
Rizal really retract and abjure masonry? Did he really go back to the faith of his fathers?
If he did, where is the alleged retraction letter? Of the many versions of the retraction
letter, which version is authentic? Who said it is authentic?
 Allegedly, there are four versions of Rizal’s retraction letter. The first version was
published in La Voz Española and Diario de Manila on December 30, 1896. The second
appeared in the Magazine La Juventud on Feb. 14, 1897, who came from an
anonymous author who 14 yrs. Later revealed himself as Fr. Vicente Balaguer. The
third, was presumably the original text which was discovered in the archdiocesan
archives on May 18, 1935. The fourth, appeared in El Imparcial on December 31, 1896,
the shortest version of the Rizal’s retraction letter.
Until today, the issue whether there was Rizal’s retraction or non and whether the
retraction letter is real or not is still subject of continuous scrutiny by the historians and
some scholars. Primary accounts must be considered. The first two are the official
accounts as witnessed by the Jesuits. The other two are the critical analyses by Rizalist
scholars who doubted the story of retraction given by the Jesuits.
Statement from Fr. Vicente Balaguer
Fr. Balaguer was a Jesuit priest who visited Rizal in his prison cell in Fort
Santiago before his execution. He said, he was able to convinced Rizal to go back to
the Catholic fold by denouncing his masonry ideals. He further testified that he was the
one who solemnized the catholic marriage of Jose Rizal and Josephine Bracken hours
before his execution and there was an affidavit secured by Balaguer before returning
back to Spain in order to prove his statement on August 8, 1917.
Fr. Balaguer recounted that he and Fr. Villaclara went to Fort Santiago where
Rizal was detained. He readily accept us and gave us hugs. With this actuation of Rizal
for me it was a high time to convince him to publicly withdraw his statements either in
words or writings that were against the Catholic Church. I tried to make him see that
outside the Catholic Church there is no salvation. Jose Rizal was agitated by this
remark and told me, see here father if I will comply your request and sign the ready -
made retraction letter without any conviction then God will be offended for I am just a
hypocrite. He further said, what will I do to conquer my reason. I answered him, offer
everything to God, your whole self and self – esteem then ask God the gift of faith which
he offers in abundance if you will ask it with humility.
After the discussion, Jose Rizal yield to the impulse of grace. He made
confession, received communion and even prayed the rosary. When our discussion was
resumed he ask for the copy of the retraction letter. He asked me to read it. When he
heard the first paragraph, he told me to stop since the way it was written is very much
different from his own style and that he will not sign it. Then I showed to him the shorter
version of the retraction letter which was prepared by Father Pio P; I read the first
paragraph and he said, that style is simple as mine. If there is something you would like
me to profess and express then just dictate it and I will write them down here. After
writing, Rizal signed it together with the Chief of the Picket Señor Fresno and the
adjutant of the Plaza, Señor Mourre. This document of retraction was delivered to
Father Pio Pi who brought it to the Archbishop of Manila, Father Bernardino Nozaleda.
Fr. Pio Pi Statement
Fr. Pio Pi was the Superior of the Jesuit Congregation in the Philippines during
the execution of Rizal. There was an affidavit presented regarding his involvement in
the alleged retraction of Rizal. His involvement was limited in securing the retraction
document from Fr. Bernardino Nozaleda and writing a shorter retraction letter w/c most
of the terms were copied by Rizal.
Based on his account that he received an order from Fr. Nozaleda on December
28, 1896 that he should extend some spiritual care to Jose Rizal. He readily accept the
order because he wanted to save the soul of Rizal by reconciling him to God and the
church. At the beginning there was little difficulty in convincing him to go back to the
Catholic fold. After a long discussion, the old Christian sentiments in him were awaken
and eventually surrendered willingly and completely.
When the retraction document was presented to him, he made some objections
in the form as well as the composition by Fr. Balaguer w/c was prepared by the
Archbishop. Then, the one which I had made was shorter and concise was chosen by
Rizal and he wished to introduce some modifications to make it appear that he was the
one writing it. He wrote it entirely by his own handwriting then affix his signature on it.
The two affixed their signature as witnesses: Juan del Fresno, Chief of the Picket and
Eloy Mourre, the Adjutant of the Plaza
Rizal may not be satisfied in signing it without, pressure from anyone, he knelt
down before the altar of the Chapel and read the abjuration document slowly but in a
loud voice.
Rafael Palma’s Analysis
Rafael Palma was a lawyer, writer, educator and politician. In 1938, he won the
literary contest w/c was sponsored by the American Commonwealth Government with
his winning piece entitled Biografia de Rizal, which was translated to English by Roman
Ozaeta with the title Pride of the Malay Race. This book was published in the U.S. the
alleged retraction of Rizal is in Chapter 32 and 33 with Palma’s analysis in the last
chapter. The following are his contentions that Rizal did not retract
1) The document of retraction were kept secret. Copies furnished to the newspaper
was not original.
2) When the family of Rizal asked for the original copy, their petition were ignored.
3) Rizal burial was never known to the public, w/c means that there was no Catholic
mass celebrated in his honor and contrary to the claim of the friars that Rizal
already reconciled with Catholic Church before his death, yet he was not buried
in a Catholic cemetery in Paco.
Ricardo Pascual
He was authorized by the Archbishop of Manila to examine the alleged retraction
letter of Rizal. He wrote a book entitled, “Rizal beyond the Grave” in w/c he said that the
retraction diverged from the style of Rizal’s other writing of that period. He points out
that both signature of the witnesses were done by the same person.
 All the witnesses on ecclesiastical said notarized the papers and their oath; Fr.
Balaguer in 1917 that he took it to Ateneo before the execution of Rizal and that Fr. Pio
Pi brought it to Archbishop Nozaleda and entrusted it to his secretary Tomas Feijo.
When they traced this paper it was lost. This will caused doubt. It had been missing for
39 long years and when Filipino people really doubted for its existence; the same was
found in the very files where it had been previously sought. This fact caused another
doubt.
Fr. Balaguer swore that he officiated the Catholic wedding of Jose Rizal and
Josephine Bracken but no marriage record is found. Then, Lucia and Josephine went
together to visit Rizal said that she did not see any ceremony.
Doubts have also been raised since the Archbishop and the Jesuit priests never
intervene in the decision against Rizal but it was only his family who begged for mercy
to reduce his sentence.
If Rizal retracted then, he would not have been executed and been given a burial
like that of a dead dog outside Paco cemetery.

Guide Questions:
1) Create a multimedia presentation on the retraction issue. Convince the audience
on your own stand, whether there was a retraction or non.
2) How important is the retraction of Rizal to the Catholic Church?
3) If it was true that Rizal retracted, would do you think would be its effect to his
fellow reformists?
4) Research on the proliferation of fake news nowadays and answer this. a) What is
fake news? How to determine it? What can you do to stop it? You may access on
this website http://www.philstar.com/opinion/2017/06/26/1713616/fake-news

MODULE 4 – EXPLORING HISTORY

It is a must for the Filipinos to study and learn the culture of the Philippines by not
just reading books and some reading materials but it can be done by visiting the sites
where the event history happened or where the historical figures lived and died to fully
understand the historical context of such event. In doing this we are learning history by
being in history.
Section 1: Historic Sites and Landmarks Recognized by the National Historical
Commission of the Philippines
All over the Philippines, there are already hundreds of sites recognized by the
National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) as landmarks of history.
Republic Act no. 10086 provided for the responsibility given to NHCP which is for the
conservation and preservation of ‘Philippines’ historical legacies. In line with this, the
NHCP must undertake the commemoration of significant dates in the Phil. History and
the personages involved in the said event. NHCP is also tasked for historical
information and dissemination of activities like the recognition of historical sites and
landmarks thus, turning them into museums and parks opening them to visitors
particularly the students to promote historical awareness to the young ones.
These landmarks are found on pp. 155 – 168 on “BATIS” by Jose Victor Torres.
Aside from these landmarks, museums are best to consider and be visited to expound
our knowledge of Phil. history and museum of Fine Arts, b) National Museum of
Anthropology, c) National museum of National History and d) the National Planetarium
Private museums available are: a) UST Museum, b) Ayala Museum, c) Lopez
Museum and Library, d) The Museo Ilo – ilo (focuses on historical artifacts in Panay
Island), e) The Juan Nepomuceno Center (focuses on Kapampangan language, history
and culture, f) Cultural Center of the Philippines (a performance venue but also served
as an art galleries exhibit and g) Kaisa Angelo King Heritage Center (highlighted the
Filipino and Chinese culture)
To further preserved the old building that contributed to our historical heritage the
Philippine Congress implemented R.A. 10066 otherwise known as Cultural Heritage Act
– w/c created the Philippine Registry of Cultural Property, the rules and regulations to
preserve historic buildings that are over 50 years. This was signed into law on March
25, 2009.
Attempts were made to preserve the artifacts of history and culture. Intramuros
District formerly known as Walled City, was declared the first district being the National
Heritage Site. Why? Followed by Vigan City (Ilocus Sur) and Silay City (Negros
Occidental). These areas are mandated to follow (R.A. 10066) in w/c they have to
preserve their historic buildings and local traditions while blending it with the modern
surroundings.
Historic buildings that survived from the Spanish until the American regime must
also be preserved such as: old churches that are found in towns and cities, old school
campuses, like UP and UST. Monuments that are found in plazas and parks either in
urban areas and provinces are also preserved for the reason that monuments are
important since they are the markers of our past. Example of these monuments are the
Carriedo Fountain, King Carlos Monument, the Legaspi – Urdaneta Monument, the
Queen Isabel II and the Simon de Anda Monument.
Archaeological sites that are mostly found in the provinces are significant places
and are the pieces of evidence of our precolonial past. These sites are already open to
the public such as, Ifugao Rice Terraces, the Kabayan Mummy Burial Caves, the
Neolithic Shell Midden Sites, and the Paleolithic Archeological Site in Cagayan Valley
where the bones of what is believed to be the oldest human being, the Callao Man was
found.
Guide Questions:
1) What is NHCP? What are the functions of NHCP?
2) What historical sites have you been visited? Why is it important to visit these
sites?
3) How can you help in the preservation of our history and culture?