Malolos Falls

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 31, 1899

Malolos, the seat of government of the First Philippine Republic fell into the hands of the Americans during the Philippine-American War. 

General Arthur MacArthur Jr.'s troops used the Manilan Railway to advance towards the capital of President Emilio Aguinaldo's government and engaged the Filipinos in the Battle of Malolos. 

Aguinaldo escaped and transferred his government to San Isidro, Nueva Ecija and gave an order to Gen. Antonio Luna to burn the Malolos Cathedral including the silver altar so everything will be useless to the Americans.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: filipinoamericanwar.com

The First Mass

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 31, 1521

The first Mass in the Philippines was held in Limasawa Island, Southern Leyte. 

It was officiated by Fr. Pedro Valderrama using an improvised altar with the presence of Ferdinand Magellan, Antonio Pigafetta, Gines de Mafra, Francisco Albo, Spanish soldiers, Rajah Kolambu with his men and Rajah Siagu of Butuan.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse Lits Up

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 30, 1892

Cape Bojeador Lighthouse, a 66-foot-tall octagonal stone tower in Burgos, Ilocos Norte was first lit. 

Constructed on Vigia de Nagpartian Hill and overlooking the South China Sea, it was part of the Spanish government's plan to put up lighthouses in the northern and western parts of the Philippines. 

It marked the northwestern-most point of Luzon and guided the galleons. 

The design was made by Magin Pers y Pers in 1887 and the construction was finished by Guillermo Brockman's Lighthouse Service. 

To this day, it continues to serve as a navigational guide for ships entering the country from the north. 

It became a National Historical Landmark in 2004 and a National Cultural Treasure in 2005.

(Design, concept, stamps and resejjuarch: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Spanish Gov. Perez Dasmarinas Bans The Wearing Of Chinese Fabrics

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 30, 1591

Twenty-six years after Miguel Lopez de Legazpi successfully established the first settlements in Cebu, Spanish Governor Perez Dasmarinas issued an ordinance in Manila that banned all Indios from wearing silk and other fabrics from China. 

This ordinance was aimed to protect the draining of the Treasury’s gold and silver. 

It was also a move to avoid the elimination of the Peninsular silk in Spain which is more expensive than the imported Chinese silk and cotton.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: Wikipedia.org

Gen. Nicolas Capistrano Surrenders

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 29, 1901

General Nicolas Capistrano together with 160 men and 9 officers surrendered to American forces in Sumilao, Bukidnon and turned over 187 rifles and 80 shotguns during the Philippine-American War. 

Earlier, on January 16, 1900, leaders of the town signed a pact of resistance against the United States. 

Capistrano was elected to lead and was assisted by Major Apolinar Velez and Captain Vicente Roa. 

On April 7, 1900, he and his men fought U.S. troops in the Battle of Cagayan de Misamis (now Cagayan de Oro City) but ordered a retreat after realizing an imminent defeat. 

He later served in the Philippine Assembly in 1909 and in the Philippine Senate from 1916-1919.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org and filipinoamericanwar.com

Blood Compact In Limasawa

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 29, 1521

Rajah Kolambu, chieftain of Limasawa Island along with his brother Rajah Siagu of Butuan and Portuguese explorer Ferdinand Magellan (1480 - April 27, 1521) sealed their friendship through a blood compact. 

Earlier, the natives were given gifts as they met the Spaniards. Kolambu on the other hand offered Magellan a basket of ginger and a gold bar which he refused to accept.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Rodrigo R. Duterte

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 28, 1945

Rodrigo "Rody" Roa Duterte was born in Maasin, Southern Leyte. His early years were spent in Danao, Cebu, the hometown of his father Vicente Duterte who was a government worker. 

His mother Soledad, a public school teacher hails from Cabadbaran, Agusan del Norte. 

The family migrated to Davao in 1949 and his father became governor of Davao from 1959-1965. 

Duterte is a lawyer by profession, city prosecutor, OIC Vice Mayor of Davao City, Mayor of Davao for 7 terms (a total of 22 years), Vice Mayor and Congressman. 

He was elected as the 16th President of the Republic of the Philippines and the first Mindanaoan to occupy the post.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Ferdinand Magellan Arrives in Limasawa

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 28, 1521

Portuguese navigator and explorer Ferdinand Magellan (1480 - April 27, 1521) sets foot on Philippine soil for the first time in Limasawa Island. 

He was welcomed by the locals led by Rajah Kolambo who became his friend. 

Magellan’s slave named Enrique made their communication possible by speaking Malay to the natives.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Battle Of Marilao River

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 27, 1899

The Battle of Marilao River, a part of the U.S. campaign to capture Malolos was fought between American troops and Filipino forces personally led by President Emilio Aguinaldo in Marilao, Bulacan. 

The combined troops of Gen. Isidro Torres, Gen. Pantaleon Garcia (who came down from Dagupan with 1,000 riflemen and 4,000 men with bolos) and Col. Enrique Pacheco engaged the Americans. 

They destroyed bridges to delay the arrival of U.S. artillery units but the Americans gained superiority in the battle when gunboats were used to fire at the Filipinos' positions. 

The Filipino troops retreated after suffering heavy casualties.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy)

All rights reserved

Photo credit: malacanang.org.ph

Gen. Luciano San Miguel Dies In Morong Battle

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 27, 1903

Luciano San Miguel (January 7, 1875-March 27, 1903), a Magdiwang who became one of General Emilio Aguinaldo’s best generals of the Philippine-American War died in the Battle of Corral-na-Bato in Morong (now Rizal). 

A year earlier, as the newly elected Captain-General and the Supreme Commander of what’s left of the revolutionary forces, he launched guerrilla tactics against American forces and was among the most wanted leaders until his death.  

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: philippineamericanwar.webs.com

Gen. Arthur MacArthur's Troops Battle Filipino Forces

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 26, 1899

Maj. Gen. Arthur MacArthur's forces engaged Filipino troops in Malinta and Meycauayan. 

Malabon was on March 25 to 26, 1899 while some parts of Caloocan, Polo and San Francisco del Monte happened on the 25th. 

MacArthur's objective was to advance along the Manila-Dagupan railway and capture Malolos, the capital of the First Philippine Republic along with Pres. Emilio Aguinaldo. 

The Malolos Campaign began on March 24, 1899 and was carried out by MacArthur's 2nd Division comprising 12,000 men in three brigades under Brig. Gen. Loyd Wheaton, Brig. Gen. Harrison Otis, and Brig. Gen. Irving Hale.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org 

Philippine Legislature Passes Act No. 2928

Today in Philippine History  (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 26, 1920

The Philippine Legislature passed Act No. 2928 making the Philippine Flag as the official flag of the Philippine Islands and to be flown next to the American Flag. 

The flag’s Cuban blue and red were changed with the American colors. 

This act repealed the Flag Law (Act No. 1696) passed on September 6, 1907, which banned the Philippine Flag or any nationalist flags, banners or symbols, particularly those identified with the Katipunan from being waved in any public place.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: http://tumblr.malacanang.gov.ph

Pres. Cory Aquino Issues Proclamation No. 3

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 25, 1986

Pres. Corazon C. Aquino issued Proclamation No. 3 which established a revolutionary government after Pres. Ferdinand E. Marcos was ousted from power through the EDSA People Power Revolution. 

The Proclamation declared "a national policy to implement reforms mandated by the people protecting their basic rights, adopting a provisional constitution, and providing for an orderly transition to a government under a new constitution." 

She abolished the 1973 Constitution and replaced it with the 1986 Freedom Constitution, and exercised both executive and legislative functions until Congress was restored in 1987 and the 1987 Constitution was ratified.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: coryaquino.ph

The Cry Of Candon

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 25, 1898

Revolutionary General Federico Isabelo Abaya (1854 - May 3, 1900) led his men in the Cry of Candon (Ikkis ti Kandon) and drove away the Spaniards in the town of Candon, Ilocos Sur. 

He established the Republic of Candon with Fernando Guirnalda as president and himself as general and commander-in-chief.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. Crispulo Aguinaldo Dies In Battle

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 24, 1897

Gen. Crispulo Aguinaldo, the older brother of Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo was killed in the Battle of Pasong Santol. 

He offered to take his sibling's place in leading the Philippine Army in the battlefield so Emilio can take his oath as president. 

A month before his death, he killed in hand to hand combat Gen. Antonio Zabala, the commander of the Spanish forces in Dasmariñas, Cavite. 

The Battle of Pasong Santol, was part of an all-out campaign by interim Spanish Gov. Gen. Jose de Lachambre to recapture Cavite after their loss in the Battles of Binakayan and Dalahican.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org and quazoo.com 

Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt Signs The Tydings-McDuffie Law

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 24, 1934

The Tydings-McDuffie Law or the Philippine Independence Act was signed by President Franklin D. Roosevelt. 

Authored by U.S. Senator Millard Tydings (Democrat) of Maryland and Alabama Representative John McDuffie (Democrat), this U.S. federal law provided for the complete independence of the Philippine Islands. 

Earlier, Manuel L. Quezon headed a “Philippine Independence Mission” to Washington, D.C. to secure the act’s approval in Congress. 

Please visit my personal collection featuring the stamps of President Manuel L. Quezon at http://thephilippinepresidentscollection.yolasite.com/manuel-quezon.php

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credits: popdc.wordpress.com and http://tumblr.malacanang.gov.ph

Andres Bonifacio Issues The Acta De Tejeros

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 23, 1897

Andres Bonifacio gathered his followers and came out with the "Acta de Tejeros", a document that rejected the results of the convention held in Tejeros a day earlier. 

They called the gathering as disorderly and its decision invalid and illegitimate and signified their opposition to the new government. 

It was signed by Bonifacio and leaders of the KKK Magdiwang council. 

They later gathered at Casa Hacienda de Naic and came up with another document called the Naic Military Agreement which called for a government that was independent of the one established in Tejeros headed by President Emilio Aguinaldo. 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. Frederick Funston Captures Pres. Emilio Aguinaldo

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 23, 1901

American General Frederick Funston successfully captured President Emilio Aguinaldo in a house in Palanan, Isabela. 

His capture was a well-planned action that involved 78 Macabebe Scouts who were loyal to the Americans. 

They posed as the added reinforcements to augment Aguinaldo’s forces along with the five ex-Philippine Army officers Gregorio Cadhit, Cecilio Segismundo, Hilario Tal Placido, Dionisio Bato and Lazaro Segovia. 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Mariano Ponce

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 23, 1863

Mariano Ponce (March 23, 1863 - May 23, 1918) was born in Baliuag, Bulacan. 

A doctor and a writer, he joined Jose Rizal, Marcelo H. del Pilar, Graciano Lopez Jaena, and other Filipino patriots in the crusade for reforms. 

He co-founded La Solidaridad with Lopez Jaena in Barcelona on February 12, 1889. 

He wrote using the pseudonyms Naning, Kalipulako and Tigbalang. He was also one of the founders of Asociacion Hispano-Filipino.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Carpenter-Kiram Agreement

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 22, 1915

The Carpenter-Kiram Agreement was signed in Zamboanga, Philippine Islands between Hadji Mohammad Jamalul Kiram representing the people of the Sulu Archipelago and Frank W. Carpenter, the governor of the Department of Mindanao and Sulu, under the authority of Gov. Gen. Francis Burton Harrison. 

The president during that time was Thomas Woodrow Wilson. 

The mutual agreement indicated the sultan's acceptance without any reservation and limitation, the sovereignty of the United States of America while renouncing his sovereignty over Sulu.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All right reserved

Photo credit:  suluonlinelibrary.wordpress.com and wikipedia.org

Pres. Emilio Aguinaldo

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 22, 1869

Emilio Famy Aguinaldo (March 22, 1869 - February 6, 1964) was born in Kawit, Cavite. 

He joined the Katipunan in 1894 and was known as Magdalo. 

Aguinaldo led the Filipino forces against the Spaniards during the Philippine Revolution (1896-98) and the Americans in the Philippine-American War (1899-1902). 

He was inaugurated as the 1st President of the Philippines on January 23, 1899 in Barasoain Church, Malolos, Bulacan.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. MacArthur Arrives In Melbourne

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 21, 1942

General Douglas MacArthur arrived in Melbourne, Australia after being ordered by U.S. Pres. Franklin D. Roosevelt to leave the Philippines and be the Supreme Commander of the Pacific Area. 

He earlier left Corregidor Island with his family in PT boats. 

In Australia, he gave his famous line "I came through and I shall return."

General Jonathan M. Wainwright IV took over the command of all U.S. and Filipino forces in the Philippines. 

President Roosevelt authorized him to continue the fight against the Japanese invaders or make terms as he saw fit. 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan Uy) All rights deserved

Photo credit: Historylink.org

Marcela Marcelo Falls In Battle

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 21, 1897

A heroine of the Philippine Revolution, Marcela Marcelo (1869-1897) of Malibay is killed in the Battle of Pasong Santol in Imus, Cavite. 

Also known as Selang Bagsik and Henerala Sela, she was a woman of great courage. 

Feared by the Spaniards, she led her platoon to battle against the enemy with just a bolo in her hand.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: watawat net/ and wikipedia.org

King Philip II Grants Manila Its Coat Of Arms

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 20, 1596

King Philip II of Spain granted the coat of arms of the City of Manila, the first in the Philippines. 

It has "a shield which shall have in the center of its upper part a golden castle on a red field, closed by a blue door and windows, and which shall be surmouvnted by a crown; and in the lower half on a blue field a half lion and half dolphin of silver, armed and langued gules—that is to say, with red nails and tongue. The said lion shall hold in his paw a sword with guard and hilt." 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: malacanan.gov.ph

Gen. MacArthur's Speech In Terowie

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition)

MARCH 20, 1942

U.S. General Douglas MacArthur issues his speech “I came out of Bataan and I shall Return” in a small railway township in Terowie, South Australia. 

In his journey to Adelaide, MacArthur shortened his words to “I came through and I shall return”. 

These words made him dear to the Filipinos and repeats it often in public appearances until his return two and a half years later.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. Pio del Pilar Versus Gen. Loyd Wheaton

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 19, 1899

The troops of General Pio del Pilar fought against Brigadier General Loyd Wheaton's 22nd US Regular Infantry Regiment, 1st Washington Volunteers and 2nd Oregon Volunteers. 

The battle in the town of Taguig began a day earlier and Sta. Ana Church became the barracks of U.S. soldiers. 

General Loyd Wheaton commanded troops in battle in the American Civil War and the Philippine-American War while General Pio del Pilar led the Filipino soldiers in the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War. 

The war between the Filipinos and Americans was during the presidency of William McKinley (U.S.) and Emilio Aguinaldo (Philippines).

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Maria Josefa Gabriela Silang

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 19, 1731

Maria Josefa Gabriela Silang (March 19, 1731 - September 29, 1763) was born in Santa, Ilocos Sur. 

After the 1763 assassination of her husband Diego who led an uprising against the Spanish regime, she continued the fight as “La Henerala”.

She led the insurgents and won many victories against the Spaniards. 

Gabriela was captured and hanged in Vigan on September 23, 1763.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: jowanabueser.com

The USS Vicksburg Is Tasked To Help Capture Pres. Aguinaldo

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 18, 1901

The USS Vicksburg (Gunboat #11) under the command of Commander Edward Buttevant Barry began supporting the operations of the United States Army under Brigadier General Frederick Funston around Kasiguran Bay and Palanan Bay in Luzon. 

Funston was tasked to capture President Emilio Aguinaldo during the Philippine-American War. 

After his capture, Aguinaldo with three of his men were marched as prisoners of war towards the seashore in Palanan Bay where the ship was anchored. 

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Fidel V. Ramos

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 18, 1928

Born on this day in Lingayen, Pangasinan, Fidel V. Ramos is the 12th President of the Philippines. 

Popularly called FVR, he was a civil engineer and a soldier prior to taking his oath of office as president on June 30, 1992 before Chief Justice Andres Narvasa. 

He is credited for the international confidence and economic turnaround of the country during his six years in office. 

Ramos died on July 31, 2022 at the age of 94.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Philippine Independence Mission's Task

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 17, 1919

The Philippine Independence Mission led by Manuel L. Quezon was asked to convey to the United States government the assurance of goodwill, friendship and gratitude of the Filipinos. 

Earlier on March 8, 1919, the Declaration of Purposes for Guidance of the Independence Commission was passed by the Philippine Legislature, a bicameral body composed of the Senate and House of Representatives. 

The declaration stated the Filipino people's desire to be free and sovereign. 

To study ways and means to attain liberty, a Commission of Independence was created and recommended the sending of an independence mission to America.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy)All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Ramon Magsaysay's Plane Crashes In Cebu

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

March 17, 1957

President Ramon Magsaysay’s term ends abruptly after his presidential plane crashes in Mt. Manunggal, Cebu and killing him instantly along with 24 other passengers. 

The 7th President of the Republic of the Philippines, 49-year old Magsaysay earned the title “Champion of the Masses” for his leadership and commitment for the Filipino people.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. McKinley Creates The Taft Commission

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 16, 1900

U.S. President William McKinley established the Second Philippine Commission also known as the Taft Commission upon the recommendation of the First Philippine Commission. William Howard Taft headed it until July 4, 1901. 

The commission exercised legislative and limited executive powers in the Philippine Islands. 

It established a judicial system with a Supreme court, replaced Spanish ordinances, made 499 laws, organized a civil service and the Philippine Constabulary among others. It was disbanded on October 16, 1916. 

Taft would later become a U.S. president.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Blood Compact

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 16, 1565

Spanish Conquistador Miguel Lopez de Legazpi and Bohol chieftain Rajah Sikatuna forge their friendship in a ritual called Sandugo or blood compact. 

This ritual involves the cutting of their wrists and pour their blood into a cup filled with wine and then drink the mixture. 

Juan Luna came out with an award-winning masterpiece featuring this event.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Magellan Lands In The Philippines

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 16, 1521

Portuguese-born explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrives in the island of Homonhon with around 150 crew members of what’s left of the original 270. 

He claims the island for Spain and calls it Isla de San Lazaro. 

Everyone in this expedition earn the distinction as the first Spaniards to arrive in the Philippines.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. Mariano Trias Surrenders

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 15, 1901

Lt. Gen. Mariano Trias peacefully surrendered to U.S. forces. 

He led attacks against Spanish troops during the Philippine Revolution and fought the Americans in the Philippine-American War. 

Trias propagated the ideals of Andres Bonifacio's Katipunan. 

He was elected vice president with Emilio Aguinaldo as president in the 1897 Tejeros Convention. 

Trias and Aguinaldo got the same posts when the revolutionary government was reorganized in Biyak-na-bato in November 1897. 

Civil Governor William H. Taft appointed him as the first Governor of Cavite in 1901. 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: malacanang gov ph

PAL's First Flight

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 15, 1941

Philippine Airlines (PAL) flies the skies with a twin-engine, five-seater Beech Model 18 aircraft from Nielsen airfield in Makati to Baguio. 

Considered as the first and oldest commercial airline in Asia and the flag carrier of the Philippines, PAL serves numerous destinations in the country as well as in other parts of the world.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Gen. Frederick Funston Boards US Gunboat Vicksburg

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 14, 1901

The American gunboat Vicksburg which earlier left Manila Bay on March 6, docked at Casiguran Bay. 

Among its passengers was Major General Frederick Funston who was tasked to capture President Emilio Aguinaldo in Palanan. 

Macabebe scouts were disguised as rebels equipped with rifles and garbed in peasant clothes. 

Hilario Tal Placido, Lazaro Segovia and other Filipinos who earlier took their oath of allegiance to the U.S. were to act as officers with four American prisoners. Funston's plan led to Aguinaldo's capture.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

The RP-US Military Bases Agreement

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 14, 1947

The RP-US Military Bases Agreement (MBA) is signed by President Manuel A. Roxas and United States Ambassador Paul V. McNutt in Malacanang Palace. 

The MBA grants the US to maintain military, naval and air bases in the country for the mutual defense of both countries.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gov. Gen. Corcuera Leaves Zamboanga To Attack Sultan Kudarat

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 13, 1637

Spanish Gov. Gen. Sebastian Hurtado de Corcuera, left Fuerza de San Jose (Fort San Jose) in Zamboanga to attack Sultan Mohammad Dipatuan Kudarat. 

Built in 1635, the fort was a garrison where sea offensives were launched against Moro pirates. (In 1718, it was rebuilt and renamed Fort Pilar or Real Fuerza de Nuestra Señora del Pilar de Zaragoza). 

Corcuera landed in Rio de Grande de Mindanao and defeated the forces of Kudarat in Lamitan, killing Moro fighters and capturing many cannons. 

Kudarat was able to escape with his wife and baby.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Gen. Leandro Locsin Fullon

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 13, 1877

Brigadier General Leandro Locsin Fullon was born in Hamtik, Antique. 

General Emilio Aguinaldo appointed him as the commanding general of the Filipino forces in the Visayas region. 

He led his army to victory on different occasions in 1898 and 1900 against the Spaniards and Americans. 

He was one of the last generals to surrender to the Americans and became governor of Antique.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credits: malacanang.gov.ph

Supreme Court Creates Philippine Judicial Academy

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 12, 1996

The Supreme Court under the leadership of Chief Justice Andres R. Narvasa through Administrative Order No. 35-36 created the Philippine Judicial Academy (PHILJA). 

On February 26, 1998, Republic Act No 8557 established the Philippine Judicial Academy, and defined its powers and functions, and appropriate funds. 

This law institutionalized PHILJA to be the “training school for justices, judges, court personnel, lawyers, and aspirants to judicial posts.”

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: sc.judiciary.gov.ph

Gen. Manuel Tinio Orders More Attacks

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 12, 1900

Brigadier General Manuel Tinio y Bundoc instructs his commanders to intensify guerrilla attacks against the American forces. 

Known as Magiting of the Magdalo faction and the youngest Filipino general in the Revolutionary Army, his military skills won for the Filipinos several battles against the Spaniards (1896-98) and the Americans (1901).

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credits: malacanang.gov.ph and philippineamericanwar.webs.com

A Plebiscite To Amend The 1935 Constitution

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 11, 1947

A plebiscite was held to amend the 1935 Constitution which provides parity rights that allowed Americans the right to dispose of and utilize the natural resources of the country. 

79% of voters approved the parity rights amendment. 

A day earlier, while campaigning for the amendment, a grenade was thrown by Julio Gullien after Pres. Manuel Roxas gave his speech. 

Luckily it was kicked away from him by Senate Pres. Jose Avelino then by Gen. Mariano Castañeda until it fell on the ground.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: metaporista.com

Gen. MacArthur Escapes Corregidor

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 11, 1942

Gen. Douglas MacArthur escaped from Corregidor in a PT boat and headed for Australia. 

This action was the result of US President Franklin D. Roosevelt’s order after fearing that MacArthur would be taken prisoner after the fall of Corregidor. 

MacArthur traveled from Corregidor to Cagayan in Mindanao amidst stormy seas patrolled by Japanese warships then flew to Australia.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Nilad Lodge Gets Approval

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 10, 1892

Logia Nilad (Nilad Lodge) was approved by Grande Oriente Español as Logia Nilad No 144. 

It was organized by Pedro Serrano Laktaw with Moises Salvador and Jose A. Ramos, and was constituted on January 6, 1892. 

Jose P. Rizal was appointed Honorary Worshipful Master of the Lodge in July that same year. 

Nilad Lodge, the first Filipino lodge became the mother of all lodges in the Philippines and was also known as Logia Central y Delegada and had the power to supervise the other lodges.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy)  All rights reserved

Photo credit: hubpages.com

Gen. MacArthur's Troops Invade Zamboanga Peninsula

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

MARCH 10, 1945

U.S. Eight Army invades Zamboanga Peninsula. 

Gen. Douglas MacArthur reported: We have landed near Zamboanga on the southwestern-most tip of Mindanao. 

The bulk of the enemy garrison, caught off guard, has fled to the hills in disorder. 

We now control the entire length of the western shores of the Philippine Islands from the northwestern tip of Luzon to the southwestern tip of Mindanao.."

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Lt. Hiro Onoda Surrenders

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 9, 1974

The last imperial Japanese Army Intelligence officer of World War II, Hiro Onoda surrendered in Lubang island. 

He was a second lieutenant who did not surrender in August 1945. 

After 29 years as a holdout, his commanding officer arrived from Japan and relieved him of his duty. 

President Ferdinand E. Marcos gave him a pardon in spite of people killed and having shootouts with the police, after taking into consideration that he still believed that the war was not over.

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Jose P. Laurel

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition)

MARCH 9, 1891

President Jose Paciano Laurel y Garcia was born in Tanauan, Batangas. 

During World War II, he was installed as president of the Second Philippine Republic, a Japanese puppet government from 1943 to 1945. 

It was only during the term of President Diosdado Macapagal (1961-65) that Laurel was officially considered the legitimate 3rd President of the Philippines. 

(Design, concept, stamps and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Lonoy Massacre

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MARCH 8, 1901

During the Philippine-American War, Filipino guerrillas were killed by U.S. troops in Lonoy, Jagna, Bohol. 

In a narrow path, Capt. Gregorio "Goyo" Caseñas and his men armed with daggers, bolos, spears, machetes and some firearms hid in trenches and foxholes with the plan to ambush the Americans but Francisco Acala, a Boholano led the soldiers to their positions. 

The Lonoy Massacre left 406 Filipinos dead including Caseñas.

(Design, concept, stamp and research: Richard Allan B. Uy) All rights reserved

Photo credit: jagna.gov.ph

International Women's Day

World Stamp Today:

MARCH 8, 2019

Gibraltar Post issued on March 8, 2019 three stamps to commemorate International Women's Day. The celebration globally highlights the social, economic, cultural and political achievements of women every year on March 8. 

The United Nations 2019 theme is “Think Equal, Build Smart, Innovate for Change.” 

It focuses on innovative ways in which people can advance gender equality and the empowerment of women. 

Students from Gibraltar took part in a competition creating artworks with their own interpretation of the United Nations 2019 theme. 

The competition winners were selected by the Ministry of Equality and the winning artworks were featured on the set of stamps:

1st Place: Eliana Medici - £2.80 stamp

2nd Place: Kiarah Gomez - 80p stamp

3rd Place: Sara Rumford - 64p stamp

The stamps were designed by Stephen Perera. Illustration/Photography were by Sara Rumford, Kiarah Gomez, Eliana Medici.

(Concept and research: Richard Allan Uy) All rights reserved