Diego Silang

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

DECEMBER 16, 1730

Diego Silang (December 16, 1730 - May 28, 1763), a revolutionary leader was born in Caba, La Union. 

He worked as a mail courier for the Spanish Clergy in Vigan and was tasked to travel to Manila to bring letters and messages. 

As he went from one place to the other, he saw the abuses of the Spaniards towards the Filipinos so he decided to plot an uprising but was captured by Spanish forces. 

With the help of a priest Fr. Millan, he managed to escape prison. Diego led a revolt that was aimed to establish an independent Ilocano nation and to put a stop to Spanish rule. 

In 1762, the British declared war on Spain and invaded Manila, Diego collaborated with the British, who installed him as governor of Ilocos on their behalf. 

He was promised military reinforcements should he need it in his successful battles against the Spanish forces. Together with him in his battles was his wife Gabriela, also known as “La Henerala,” who was his “aide-de-campe” and adviser. 

To put an end to Silang’s revolt , the magistrate of the Royal Audencia, Simon de Anda decided to hire Miguel Vicos and Pedro Becbec to assassinate Diego. 

On May 28, 1763, Vicos and Becbec went to Silang’s headquarters in Vigan and with his back turned away from them, Diego was  treacherously shot. 

After his assassination, Gabriela took over and continued the fight against Spanish troops.

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

Photo credit: wikipedia.com