Aguinaldo Becomes A Dictator

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

MAY 24, 1898

General Emilio Aguinaldo established a Dictatorial Government making himself as dictator following the advise of Ambrosio Rianzares Bautista. 

It nullified all the orders made by the Revolutionary Government established at Biak-na-bato, as well as all commissions issued to officials of the army, towns and provinces. 

The new government was provisional in character. 

This was the first step towards the declaration of Philippine Independence on June 12, 1898 in Kawit, Cavite. 

Aguinaldo thought that declaring Philippine independence with a government in operation was necessary and it would inspire the Filipinos to eagerly continue the fight against the Spaniards.

Apolinario Mabini, his unofficial adviser objected and advised him that instead of declaring independence at an early stage, he should reorganize the government to convince the foreign powers of the competence and stability of the new government. Aguinaldo had it his way.

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

Photo credit: wikipedia.org