THE RESPONSES OF THE FILIPINOS AGAINST SPANISH COLONIALISM

Overview:
- because of geographical particularism the native Flipinos responses agains spaniards varied due to
different regions.
- Responses varied from Acceptance to Indifference and Rejection which is active or passive resistance.
Acceptance came from conversion and tribute paying.
- Determine the causes of early Filipino revolts to 19th century.
- Impact of European influences to nationalism
- Compare and Contrast Propaganda Movements and Katipunan; the Two Movements as expression of
Filipino Nationalism.

INSURRECTIONS BY FILIPINOS IN THE 17TH CENTURY (IN BOHOL & LEYTE, 1622)

The Bohol Revolt (1622) – led by Tamblot, a native babaylan (priest or shaman) of Bohol. He
encouraged people to return to the old native religion instead of Christianity, and promised that if they
abandoned the Spaniards’ religion, their ancestors’ spirits would provide abundant food, wine, and gold.
As a result, many natives joined Tamblot and they started destroying churches and rejecting Spanish rule.

- As a response of Spaniards, jesuit missionaries requested help from Spanish

forces in Cebu. A battle took place; around 2,000 of Tamblot’s followers fought
but were eventually defeated by the Spanish and their allies.
- Governor-General Alonso Fajardo dispatched Spanish soldiers and loyal Filipino
allies. After fierce fighting, Tamblot’s forces were defeated, and the revolt was
crushed within the same year (1622).
- Spanish authority was restored in Bohol, but the revolt showed Filipinos’
resistance to religious and colonial oppression.
- The Tamblot Revolt was the first religious revolt in the Philippines, proving that
conversion to Christianity was not universally accepted.

The Leyte Revolt (1622) – led by Bankaw (Bancao), the datu of Carigara, Leyte, and his babaylan
Pagali. He had been an ally of the Spaniards during Miguel López de Legazpi’s time and was even
rewarded with privileges. However, by 1622, he became disillusioned with Spanish abuses.

- Bankaw, with the help of the babaylan Pagali, urged his people to abandon
Christianity and return to their native worship. They built a temple for their
diwatas (native deities). Thousands of followers, and they attacked Spanish
settlements and destroyed religious symbols.
 - Spanish forces from Cebu and Manila attacked Bankaw’s stronghold. Bankaw
was executed, Pagali was killed, and the revolt was suppressed.
- Another failure of early resistance, but it revealed that even loyal allies of Spain
could eventually rebel. The Bankaw Revolt showed that dissatisfaction with
Spanish rule was widespread, even among former allies, and that religion was a
major spark for resistance.

Take Note:

- Both Bohol (Tamblot) and Leyte (Bankaw) uprisings reflected Filipinos’ struggle
for religious and political freedom. They were mainly religious revolts, rejecting
Christianity and colonial power.
- Though suppressed, they were early signs of Filipino nationalism and the desire
to resist colonization.
- These revolts were part of the long chain of 17th-century insurrections that
weakened Spanish control little by little.

INSURRECTIONS BY FILIPINOS IN THE 17TH CENTURY (IN PAMPANGA & PANGASINAN, 1660-61)
The Pampanga Revolt (1660) – led by Francisco Maniago, a prominent Kapampangan leader. It was
because of Forced Labor (Polo y Servicios): Pampangueños were forced to cut timber from forests to
build Spanish galleons, and the work was exhausting and dangerous. Encomenderos and Spanish
soldiers oppressed locals through heavy tribute and maltreatment. Also, natives Filipino demanded fair
payment for their work, but the Spanish often refused.
- Thousands of Kapampangans revolted against the forced labor system. Maniago
gathered a large force, driving Spaniards out of several towns in Pampanga.
- The revolt spread to nearby provinces and the Spanish were alarmed, they
sought to negotiate. Then, Maniago eventually agreed to lay down arms after
promises of reforms.
- The revolt ended without major bloodshed. However, it inspired other provinces
(like Pangasinan) to rise up soon after.
- The Pampanga revolt revealed the Filipinos’ growing resistance to forced labor
and oppression, and how organized uprisings could shake Spanish authority.
The Pangasinan Revolt (1660–1661) – led by Andres Malong, the gobernadorcillo (local governor) of
Binalatongan (now San Carlos City, Pangasinan). Inspired by the Pampanga uprising. Same issues as
Pampanga the - forced labor, heavy taxation, and Spanish abuses. Malong dreamed not just of reforms
but of total independence. Malong declared himself “King of Pangasinan” and raised an army of about
40,000 men. He urged other provinces to join him in overthrowing Spanish rule. His forces at first
defeated small Spanish detachments.
 - The Spanish quickly organized reinforcements. Malong’s army, though
numerous, was poorly armed (mostly spears and bolos vs. Spanish firearms).
Spanish troops crushed the rebellion in 1661.
- Andres Malong and other leaders were captured and executed.
- Spanish authority was re-established in Pangasinan.
- Unlike Maniago, Malong wanted independence, making his revolt one of the
earliest attempts to set up a native kingdom against Spain.
Take Note:
- It showed that Filipinos were no longer just resisting religious control but also
economic and political oppression.
- Pampanga’s revolt was about labor and fairness, while Pangasinan’s revolt was
about freedom and independence.
- Both uprisings signaled the rising courage of Filipinos to confront Spanish
colonial power, even if they were eventually suppressed.
- These revolts were stepping stones leading to later, bigger revolutions (like the
1896 Philippine Revolution).
DAGOHOY’S REVOLT (1744–1829) – started in 18th century. Before Dagohoy, Bohol had already seen
revolts like Tamblot’s in 1622. Spanish friars and officials continued to abuse the locals through: Forced
labor (polo y servicios), Excessive tribute, Religious abuses by friars. As a result this created long-
standing resentment among Boholanos.
- Led by Francisco Dagohoy (real name: Francisco Sendrijas) was a native of
Inabanga, Bohol. His brother, a constable, died during a mission. When
Dagohoy asked that his brother be given Christian burial, a Jesuit priest refused
because he had died in a duel. This deep insult to family honor became the
spark of the revolt.
- Dagohoy rallied thousands of Boholanos to his side. He established a free
community in the mountains, independent from Spanish rule. His followers built
settlements, farms, and defended themselves from Spanish attacks for decades.
The revolt grew so strong that at its height, more than 20,000 men and women
lived under Dagohoy’s leadership.
- As Spanish response, Spanish authorities sent repeated expeditions to suppress
Dagohoy’s rebellion. Over 20 governors-general tried to end it, but all failed. The
difficult terrain of Bohol and the strong unity of the rebels made it nearly
impossible for the Spaniards to penetrate.
- Finally, in 1829, Governor-General Mariano Ricafort led a massive campaign
against the Dagohoy rebels. Dagohoy had already died by then, but his
 successors continued the fight. After 85 years, the rebellion ended, with
thousands of survivors resettled into towns.
- The Dagohoy Revolt is the longest revolt in Philippine history (1744–1829 =
85 years). It showed the determination of Filipinos to resist Spanish abuses
despite overwhelming odds.
- Dagohoy became a symbol of Filipino courage, honor, and the fight for justice.
Today, Boholanos honor Dagohoy as their provincial hero.
SUMMARY
1622 – Bohol 1622 – Leyte 1660 – Pampanga 1660–1661 – 1744–1829 – Bohol
(Tamblot Revolt) (Bankaw Revolt) (Maniago Revolt) Pangasinan (Dagohoy Revolt)
(Malong Revolt)
Leader: Tamblot Leaders: Bankaw & Leader: Francisco Leader: Andres Leader: Francisco
(babaylan) Pagali (babaylan) Maniago Malong Dagohoy
Cause: Return to Cause: Abandon Cause: Forced labor Cause: Oppression, Cause: Denial of
native religion, Christianity, build (timber cutting for desire for Christian burial +
reject Christianity temple for diwatas galleons), abuses independence Spanish oppression
Result: Defeated by Result: Suppressed, Result: Negotiated Result: Declared Result: Longest
Spaniards leaders executed end, but inspired “King of revolt (85 years),
others Pangasinan” but ended in 1829
revolt crushed

Failure of the Rebellions ( According to Agoncillo, 2007) - According to Teodoro Agoncillo, the
numerous revolts from the 16th–19th centuries did not succeed because of several major reasons:

1. Lack of Unity among Filipinos - The Philippines was divided into many ethnolinguistic groups
(Tagalog, Kapampangan, Ilocano, Visayan, etc.). Each revolt was local and isolated, only concerning one
province or group. No sense of national identity yet → rebellions failed to spread across the archipelago.
2. Poor Organization and Planning - Most uprisings were spontaneous or triggered by immediate
abuses. Leaders lacked long-term strategies, military structure, and coordination. Revolts often relied on
bolos and spears vs. Spanish guns and cannons.
3. Spanish Military Superiority - Spaniards had better weapons, disciplined troops, and allies (like loyal
native soldiers and mercenaries). Spanish friars also acted as intelligence sources, often learning of
uprisings in advance.
4. Presence of Native Collaborators - Some Filipinos sided with the Spaniards for rewards, positions, or
fear of punishment. Betrayals from within (like Antonio Surabao in the Tondo Conspiracy) weakened
revolts.
5. Lack of National Consciousness - Early Filipinos still identified more with their barangay, tribe, or
province than with a united “Filipino nation.” Without a shared vision of independence, rebellions stayed
local.
6. Religious and Cultural Factors - Many revolts were religious (e.g., Tamblot, Bankaw) and focused on
restoring old beliefs rather than national freedom. The Catholic Church was powerful and used its
influence to suppress resistance.
Take Note:
Agoncillo emphasized that the revolts failed not because Filipinos lacked bravery, but because:
- They were scattered, poorly armed, and divided.
- Spain had the advantage of unity, superior weapons, and collaborators.
- It was only in the late 19th century, with the rise of nationalism (Propaganda Movement, Katipunan),
that Filipinos learned from past failures and mounted a united revolution (1896).

Cause of Failure Explanation Example Revolts

Tondo Conspiracy (1587–

Revolts were local and isolated; no 1588), Maniago Revolt
Lack of Unity
cooperation across provinces. (1660), Malong Revolt
(1660–61)

Uprisings were spontaneous,

Poor Organization & Tamblot Revolt (1622),
uncoordinated, and lacked military
Planning Bankaw Revolt (1622)
strategy.

Dagohoy Revolt (1744–

Spanish Military Spaniards had firearms, cannons, trained
1829, lasted long but still
Superiority soldiers, plus loyal native auxiliaries.
crushed)

Some Filipinos sided with Spaniards for

Tondo Conspiracy (Antonio
Native Collaborators reward or protection; betrayal weakened
Surabao’s betrayal)
uprisings.

Lack of National People identified with barangay/province, All local revolts before 19th
Consciousness not as “Filipinos.” century

Religious & Cultural Many revolts aimed at restoring old Tamblot Revolt (1622),
Factors religion, not building a united nation. Bankaw Revolt (1622)

The Beginning of Filipino Nationalism and the Campaign for Reforms (1882–1892) - By the late 19th
century, Filipinos had grown tired of: Abuses of friars (friar lands, control of politics, education, and
economy). Lack of representation in the Spanish Cortes (Parliament). Social inequality: Spaniards and
Peninsulares enjoyed privileges, while Filipinos (indios) were treated as second-class citizens. The
spread of liberal ideas (from Europe, American Revolution, and French Revolution) inspired educated
Filipinos to demand change.
- Rise of the Propaganda Movement (1882). Many young Filipino ilustrados
(educated class) went to Europe to study.
- In Spain, they formed associations and wrote against Spanish abuses,
demanding reforms. They were reformists, not separatists at this time – they
wanted reforms within Spain’s colonial system, not independence yet.
- This period marks the birth of Filipino nationalism. Though reforms failed, it
awakened national consciousness and inspired Filipinos to seek freedom. The
failure of peaceful reform later pushed Filipinos towards revolutionary
movements like the Katipunan (1892) founded by Andres Bonifacio.
- 1882–1892 = Filipinos tried reform through education, writing, and peaceful
campaigns. But failure of reforms led to the realization that only revolution could
bring true freedom.
The following had been regarded in history as factors that gave rise to Filipino nationalism (Agoncillo,
1990):
1. The Philippines in World Commerce (1834–1898) and Opening of the Suez Canal (1869)

(a) Opening of Manila to World Trade (1834): In 1834, the port of Manila was opened to world
commerce. This ended the old Galleon Trade (1565–1815), which limited trade only between
Manila and Acapulco, Mexico. Foreign merchants, especially British, American, Chinese, and
Spanish, began trading directly in the Philippines. As a result, Manila became a commercial
hub in Asia. Rise of cash crop economy: sugar (Negros), tobacco (Ilocos), abaca/hemp (Bicol,
Eastern Visayas), and coffee (Batangas). Growth of new ports: Cebu, Zamboanga, Sual
(Pangasinan), Iloilo (which became an economic center).

(b) Opening of Other Ports (1850s–1870s): To expand trade, the Spaniards opened additional
ports to foreign ships: Iloilo (1855) – developed sugar industry in Negros. Zamboanga (1830s), Cebu
(1860s), and others. Foreign firms established businesses and banks in the Philippines. As a result, local
industries grew, but Filipinos often remained as workers while foreigners controlled export trade. Chinese
mestizos (Filipino-Chinese) became wealthy middlemen, dominating trade.

(c) Integration into the World Economy: Philippines shifted from subsistence farming → export-
oriented agriculture. Dependence on foreign markets increased. The rise of haciendas (large estates):
many farmers lost land and became tenants or laborers. Economic boom created a small Filipino middle
class (ilustrados) who gained wealth and access to education.
 (d) Opening of the Suez Canal (1869) - The Suez Canal in Egypt was opened in 1869, linking the
Mediterranean Sea and the Red Sea. It drastically shortened travel time between Europe and Asia (from
3 months by Cape of Good Hope to 1 month). The effects of it in Philippines are:(1) Faster
Communication and Travel. (2) Ideas of liberalism, nationalism, and democracy spread faster from
Europe to the Philippines. (3) Newspapers, books, and reforms reached the country more quickly. (4)
Rise of Filipino Ilustrados; Wealthy Filipino families sent children to study in Europe. This produced a new
class of educated Filipinos who became leaders of the Propaganda Movement (Rizal, del Pilar, Lopez
Jaena). (5) Stronger Economic Ties; Philippine products reached European markets faster. Increased
prosperity for some, but also widened social inequality. (6) Spread of Nationalist Ideas and the ilustrados
were exposed to European liberal ideas (freedom, equality, rights).

Take Note:
- 1834–1898: Philippines entered world commerce → cash crops, haciendas, new ports, rise of middle
class.
- 1869: Opening of the Suez Canal → faster travel, spread of liberal ideas, rise of ilustrados.
- Together, these developments modernized the Philippines and laid the foundation for Filipino
nationalism and revolution.

2. The Rise of the Clase Media (Middle Class) - During the 19th century, changes in the Philippine
economy and society led to the growth of a middle social class between the rich Spaniards and the poor
indios. They were called the clase media, consisting mostly of:
- Chinese mestizos (children of Chinese merchants and native Filipinas).
- Principalia (native elites like gobernadorcillos and cabezas de barangay).
- Prosperous farmers and traders who benefited from cash crop exports (sugar, abaca, tobacco, coffee).
- They are wealthy enough to send their children to school in Manila and abroad (Europe). Many were
educated in liberal ideas (freedom, equality, democracy). They began to question Spanish abuses and
pushed for reforms. Some were writers, lawyers, doctors, artists, and professionals → later became the
ilustrados.
- The clase media (Chinese mestizos, principalia, wealthy farmers, traders) rose due to world commerce
and the opening of the Suez Canal. From them came the ilustrados, who carried the banner of Filipino
nationalism in the late 19th century.

3. European Liberalism - was a political and intellectual movement in Europe during the 18th and 19th
centuries. It was shaped by: (1) The Enlightenment (ideas of reason, science, human rights). (2) The
American Revolution (1776) – liberty and independence from colonial rule. (3) The French Revolution
(1789) – “Liberty, Equality, Fraternity.” By the 1800s, these ideas spread across Europe and challenged
absolute monarchies and colonialism.
Core Principles of European Liberalism:
Liberty (Kalayaan) – Freedom of the individual from oppression.
Equality (Pagkapantay-pantay) – All citizens equal before the law, no racial or class discrimination.
Fraternity (Kapatiran) – Solidarity and unity of the people.
Constitutional Government – Rule of law, not absolute monarchy.
Representation – Citizens must be represented in law-making bodies.
Freedom of Speech, Press, and Assembly – Essential to a free society.
Separation of Church and State – End of the Church’s political power.

- It was reached in the Philippines by the opening of the Suez Canal (1869) shortened travel between
Europe and Asia. Many Filipinos (ilustrados) went to Europe to study. In Spain, they witnessed liberal and
democratic institutions. They absorbed liberal principles and applied them to the Philippine situation.
- It planted the seed of national consciousness among Filipinos, and inspired the peaceful reform
movement (La Solidaridad, Rizal’s writings). Even after Spain rejected reforms, these liberal ideals fueled
the Katipunan and the Philippine Revolution of 1896.
- European Liberalism = freedom, equality, constitutional rights. It inspired the ilustrados and gave birth to
Filipino nationalism, which eventually led to the fight for independence.
4. Administration of Governor-General Carlos María de la Torre (1869–1871) - Appointed Governor-
General of the Philippines in June 1869. Arrived in Manila shortly after the opening of the Suez Canal
(November 1869), when liberal ideas were spreading quickly. Known as a liberal Spanish official,
influenced by the democratic revolution in Spain (1868 “La Gloriosa”) which temporarily dethroned Queen
Isabella II.
- De la Torre introduced progressive reforms: (1) Equality and Fraternity, treated both Spaniards and
Filipinos as equals. (2) Mixed freely with natives and mestizos, breaking the barriers of racial
discrimination. (3) Freedom of Expression, encouraged freedom of the press and speech and allowed
discussions of political issues that were previously censored. (4) Freedom of Assembly, permitted public
meetings, parades, and demonstrations, including reformist rallies.(5) Support for Reformists,
sympathized with Filipino priests fighting for the secularization of parishes (like Fathers Burgos, Zamora,
and Gomez). (6)Allowed liberal Spaniards and Filipinos to openly criticize the friars.

- Filipinos: Welcomed him enthusiastically, seeing him as a symbol of change. Reformists (ilustrados and
Filipino priests) gained confidence to speak out. (2) Friars and Conservative Spaniards: Strongly opposed
him, because his policies reduced their power and influence.
- In April 1871, he was recalled to Spain and replaced by Governor-General Rafael Izquierdo, a
conservative. Izquierdo reversed de la Torre’s liberal reforms, restoring friar power and strict policies.
- De la Torre’s administration gave Filipinos a taste of liberal governance. Inspired the growing sense of
Filipino nationalism among the ilustrados. However, his removal and replacement by Izquierdo set the
stage for the 1872 Cavite Mutiny, which later led to the execution of GOMBURZA — a major spark of
Filipino nationalism.

SUMMARY - Governor-General Carlos María de la Torre (1869–1871) brought liberal reforms: equality,
freedom of speech, press, and assembly, and support for Filipino priests. His administration inspired
Filipinos but angered friars. His recall ended the brief liberal period, paving the way for repression under
Izquierdo.

5. Racial Discrimination in the Philippines (Spanish Colonial Period): unequal treatment of people
based on race, skin color, or ethnic origin. In the Philippines under Spain, society was divided into racial
and social classes, with privileges based on ancestry and birthplace.

- Spanish colonial society created a caste system:

1. Peninsulares – Spaniards born in Spain. Held highest political and church positions.
Considered the ruling elite.
2. Insulares (Filipinos or Criollos) – Spaniards born in the Philippines. Still privileged but treated
as inferior to peninsulares.
3. Mestizos – Children of mixed ancestry.
4. Chinese mestizos (Chinese + native) often wealthy traders.
5. Spanish mestizos (Spanish + native) had more opportunities than indios.
6. Indios (Natives/Filipinos) – The majority. Heavily taxed, forced into polo y servicio (forced
labor). Rarely given access to higher education or government positions.
7. Sangleys (Chinese immigrants) – Subjected to heavy taxes and restrictions, often
stereotyped as greedy but essential to trade.

Forms of Racial Discrimination

1. Social Discrimination - Indios considered inferior; Spaniards and mestizos looked down on them.
Use of derogatory term “indio” to imply backwardness and ignorance.

2. Political Discrimination - Only peninsulares and insulares could hold top government positions.
Indios and mestizos were excluded from important political roles.

3. Religious Discrimination - Spanish friars refused to give Filipino priests equal rights. Filipino
clergy were denied leadership of parishes → led to secularization movement.
 4. Economic Discrimination - Filipinos were exploited as cheap labor. Spaniards and mestizos
owned the best lands; indios became tenants.

5. Legal Discrimination - Spaniards often received lighter punishments than indios for the same
crimes.

- The effect of it in Filipinos are: (1) Created resentment among Filipinos. (2) Inspired the rise of
the clase media (middle class) who sought equality. (3) Motivated the Propaganda Movement to
demand reforms, such as: Equality before the law.
- Note: Racial discrimination under Spanish rule placed peninsulares at the top and indios at the
bottom. This unequal treatment was seen in politics, economy, religion, and daily life. It became
one of the root causes of Filipino nationalism and the fight for freedom.

6. Secularization Controversy – Secular priests like Pedro Peláez, Burgos, Gómez, and Zamora
demanded justice for Filipino clergy.

Their fight for equal rights turned into a nationalist struggle against Spanish discrimination
Secularization = transferring the control of parishes from religious orders (friars) to secular
(diocesan) priests.
Secular priests = Filipino priests who did not belong to any religious order (e.g., Dominican, Jesuit,
Augustinian).
The movement called for Filipino priests to be allowed to lead their own parishes, instead of friars
monopolizing them.
Regular Priests vs. Secular Priests
1. Regular Priests (Friars) - From the Latin regula = “rule” (meaning they lived according to the rule of
their religious order).
- Members of religious orders: Dominicans, Franciscans, Augustinians, Jesuits, Recollects.
- Lived in monasteries or convents, under vows of poverty, chastity, and obedience.
Their main mission:
- Missionary work (spread Christianity, especially in far provinces).
- Administer rich and large parishes.
- Ran schools, hospitals, and universities (e.g., UST by Dominicans, San Jose by Jesuits).
In the Philippines, they monopolized the wealthiest and most important parishes, leaving poor parishes to
secular clergy.
2. Secular Priests - From saeculum = “world” (meaning they lived among the people, not in monasteries).
Diocesan priests, trained in seminaries, directly under the bishop of the diocese. Wanted equal rights with
Spanish priests to handle parishes.

Duties:
- Administer parishes (mass, baptisms, confessions, burials).
- Serve as parish priests of local communities. Many were Filipinos or mestizos.

- Council of Trent (1545–1563) – decreed that parishes should be under diocesan (secular) priests, not
religious orders. In the Philippines, however, Spanish friars ignored this rule and kept control of the
richest parishes. When some parishes were given to Filipino priests, friars later reclaimed them, causing
conflict.
- Padre Pedro Peláez – leader of the secularization movement; defended the rights of Filipino priests.
Died in the 1863 earthquake when Manila Cathedral collapsed.
- Padre Mariano Gómez, José Burgos, and Jacinto Zamora (GOMBURZA) – young priests who continued
the fight for secularization. Advocated for equality of Filipino priests. Supported reforms and criticized friar
abuses.
- The opposition of friars are: friars claimed Filipino priests were unfit to manage parishes. They feared
losing wealth, power, and influence if Filipinos gained control. They used their political influence to keep
Filipinos from holding high church positions.
- The execution of GOMBURZA shocked Filipinos and inspired a new wave of nationalism. José Rizal
dedicated El Filibusterismo to GOMBURZA, calling them martyrs. The secularization controversy became
more than a church issue → it turned into a political and nationalist movement.
SUMMARY:
- Secularization = Filipino priests wanted the right to lead parishes.
- Led by Pedro Peláez, Burgos, Gómez, Zamora. Opposed by Spanish friars.
- 1872 Cavite Mutiny + execution of GOMBURZA transformed it into a symbol of resistance
against colonial injustice.
- Sparked the growth of Filipino nationalism.

7. Cavite Mutiny (1872) and Execution of GOMBURZA

1. 1. Cavite Mutiny (January 20, 1872) - A small uprising of about 200 Filipino soldiers, workers, and
residents at the Cavite Arsenal (Fort San Felipe). The soldiers and workers protested the removal of
privileges (like exemption from tribute and forced labor). They believed they were being unfairly treated.
Then, the mutiny was poorly organized and lasted only a few hours. The Spanish forces quickly
suppressed it. Spanish authorities, especially the friars, exaggerated it as a large-scale conspiracy to
overthrow Spain. They linked the mutiny to Filipino priests and intellectuals to justify harsh measures.
2. Execution of GOMBURZA (February 17, 1872) - Three Filipino priests accused of masterminding the
mutiny: (1) Fr. Mariano Gómez – elderly priest, advocate for Filipino clergy. (2) Fr. José Burgos – young,
educated priest, defender of secularization. (3) Fr. Jacinto Zamora – accused falsely because of a
misinterpreted letter. No concrete evidence was presented; the trial was unfair. They were executed by
garrote (strangulation) in Bagumbayan (now Luneta). Many Filipinos, including Rizal’s family, witnessed
the execution.

Effects of the Cavite Mutiny and Execution of GOMBURZA

For Spaniards:
- Strengthened friar control and repressive policies.
- Used as an excuse to silence reformists.
For Filipinos:
- Shocked and angered the Filipino people.
- Created widespread sympathy for the Filipino clergy.
- The unjust death of GOMBURZA became a symbol of Spanish cruelty.
For Nationalism:
- Inspired a new generation of nationalists.
- José Rizal, as a young boy, was deeply affected and later dedicated El Filibusterismo to
GOMBURZA.
- The event is considered the spark that ignited Filipino nationalism, leading to the Propaganda
Movement and later the Revolution of 1896.

SUMMARY:
- Cavite Mutiny (1872): A small local revolt in Cavite, exaggerated by Spaniards as a nationwide
conspiracy.
- Execution of GOMBURZA: Three innocent priests executed, symbolizing Spanish injustice.

NOTE:Turned the struggle from religious (secularization) to political and nationalist, fueling the birth of
Filipino nationalism.

The Campaign for Reforms (1888–1892) - By the late 19th century, Filipinos were discontented with:
(1) Friar abuses, (2) Lack of representation in government, (3) Social and racial discrimination. Educated
Filipinos (ilustrados) who studied in Spain absorbed liberal ideas of democracy, equality, and freedom.
They launched the Propaganda Movement, first through writings, then petitions and campaigns.
 - On March 1, 1888, over 800 Filipinos in Manila signed the Anti-Friar Petition, calling for:
1. Expulsion of friars from parishes,
2. Return of lands seized by friars,
3. Recognition of Filipino priests.
- This marked the beginning of an organized reform movement in the Philippines itself, not just in Spain.
- The main leaders were José Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Graciano López Jaena, Mariano Ponce, and
Antonio Luna. They used writing and speeches to demand reforms:
- La Solidaridad (1889–1895) – reformist newspaper founded in Barcelona; became the official organ of
the movement.
- Rizal’s Noli Me Tangere (1887) and El Filibusterismo (1891) exposed friar abuses.
- Del Pilar wrote satirical essays (e.g., Dasalan at Tocsohan).
- López Jaena wrote fiery speeches and editorials.
- The reformists did not ask for independence yet. They asked for:
1. Representation of the Philippines in the Spanish Cortes (parliament).
2. Equality of Filipinos and Spaniards before the law.
3. Secularization of parishes and expulsion of friars.
4. Freedom of speech, press, and assembly.
5. Human rights for Filipinos.
6. Land reform and better treatment of Filipino workers.

- Spanish authorities and friars resisted all reforms.

- Reformists were divided: Rizal vs. del Pilar had different approaches.
- The movement was short on funds and unity.
- By 1892, the reform campaign weakened.
- Though reforms were not granted, the campaign:
1. Awakened Filipino national consciousness.
2. Exposed Spanish abuses to the world.
3. Created the foundation of Philippine nationalism.
- In 1892, Rizal returned to the Philippines and founded La Liga Filipina to continue reforms at home.
- Its breakup later gave birth to Bonifacio’s Katipunan, which chose revolution over reform.

SUMMARY:
1888–1892 = Peak of the reform campaign.
Leaders: Rizal, del Pilar, López Jaena, Ponce, Luna.
Medium: La Solidaridad, novels, essays, petitions.
Goals: Representation, equality, secularization, freedom, justice.
Outcome: Failed to achieve reforms but inspired the nationalist movement that led to revolution.
La Solidaridad, February 18, 1889-1895 - was founded by Filipino expatriates in Spain (ilustrados). Its
goal was to defend Filipinos against Spanish abuses and promote reforms through peaceful, legal means.
It became the mouthpiece of Filipino nationalists abroad.
First editor: Graciano López Jaena. Later succeeded by Marcelo H. del Pilar.
– The purpose was to be the voice of the Filipinos in Spain.
Fight against abuses – Oppose tyranny, friar dominance, and inequality.
Support for liberalism – Promote freedom, progress, equality, and reforms.
Unity – “Solidarity” meant Filipinos must stand together for national progress.
- First formal Filipino reformist newspaper in Europe.
- Spread awareness of Philippine issues to both Spaniards and Filipinos abroad.
- Gave intellectual and moral support to the Reform Movement.
- Provided a platform for writings of Rizal, del Pilar, López Jaena, Mariano Ponce, and Antonio Luna.
SUMMARY:
La Solidaridad’s first issue (Feb. 18, 1889) declared the mission of the Filipino reformists: liberty, equality,
progress, and justice. It opposed tyranny and friar abuses, while supporting liberal reforms. This paper
became the official organ of the Propaganda Movement until it stopped publication in 1895.