Still Stampin' (Darthphilatelist in Hyper Mode...): July 2023

Monday, July 31, 2023

The Battle of Paye

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 31, 1900

The Battle of Paye was a battle fought between the United States and the Philippines during the Philippine-American War.

It happened on July 31, 1900 at Sitio Paye near Barangay Balimbing in the town of Boac, Marinduque. The Americans called it a skirmish while the Filipinos refer to it as a battle.

1st Lt. Wiliam S. Wells, leader of the Company A, 29th USV led his troops to a reconnaissance patrol to Balimbing.

While on their way, they were ambushed by the 2nd Guerrilla forces of Capt. Teofilo Navaroso Roque.

As they escaped the attack, two Americans were wounded while two were captured. The Americans reached the Boac Church and stayed there.

When night fell, the guerrillas torched a portion of Boac called Mataas na Bayan which is near the church, in an attempt to flush out the Americans.

Although they failed, the guerrillas succeeded in paralyzing Company A while the residents of Boac fled the town leaving it deserted.

People in Marinduque by virtue of Republic Act No. 9749, commemorate July 31 of every year as the Battle of Paye Day in remembrance of the victory of the Marinduqueno revolutionaries against the American soldiers on July 31, 1900 in Sitio Paye, Barangay Balimbing, Boac.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson Dies

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 31, 1989

Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson (December 19, 1895 - July 31, 1989), the first woman senator of the Philippines passed away.

Pecson was born in Lingayen, Pangasinan and was a teacher, social worker, leader in nation building and an advocate for women’s right to vote.

Before winning the senate seat in 1947, she was President Jose P. Laurel’s private secretary and executive secretary of President Manuel Roxas.

She headed the Senate Committees on Education, Health, Public Welfare, and the Joint Congressional Committee on Education.

Pecson was the first Filipino and first woman elected to the executive board of the United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization (UNESCO) in 1950.

She was instrumental for the passing of notable laws on education such as the Free and Compulsory Education Act and the Vocational Education Act.

Geronima Josefa Tomelden Pecson founded the Foundation of Youth Development of the Philippines in 1955 and was its administrator till her death.

Photo credit: DepEd Philippines

Gen. Artemio Ricarte Dies

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 31, 1945

Gen. Artemio Ricarte (October 20, 1866 - July 31, 1945) known as the Father of the Philippine Army died at the age of 78 in Hungduan, Ifugao.

Also known in the Katipunan as Vibora (Viper), he led his men in many battles in Cavite, Laguna and Batangas against the Spanish forces during the Philippine Revolution.

He also fought the Americans during the Philippine-American War. In 1900, he was captured and deported to Guam together with Apolinario Mabini.

Ricarte refused to take the oath of allegiance to the United States.

Photo credit: http://en.wikipedia.org/ and http://www.oocities.org/

Sunday, July 30, 2023

Blast from the past: 2013 to 2015

SELYO UG KASAYSAYAN SA FORT (Stamps and History @ the Fort)

This is one of the many presentations I conceptualized and executed from my materials and collections for Cebu Stamp Club.

Thanks everyone for the support through the years especially the Cebu City Government, Mayor Michael Rama, SM City Cebu, Ayala Center Cebu, Philpost, Rachel Betos, Emie Patalagsa, bro Charles Mark Uybengkee, Erwin dela Cerna, my siblings bro Chef Bob, Cathy, and Debbie, my son Jerald, Cebu Stamp Club members and my media friends.

To God be the glory 🙏🇵🇭

President Elpidio Quirino's Health Improves

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 30, 1953

President Elpidio Quirino's health and condition improved after being confined at the Johns Hopkins Hospital in Baltimore, Maryland, USA.

Joseph Kelly, the public relations officer of the hospital announced that "The President rested well last night and his condition is satisfactory. He had a period of difficulty yesterday when there was some internal bleeding. He received several blood transfusions after which his blood pressure and pulse returned to normal and remained so through the night. His condition this morning is improved."

The President underwent several medical tests and examinations upon his arrival in Baltimore on June 30, 1953.

The hospital provided a room adjoining his suite which became his executive office.

He had a surgical operation on July 8 for a stomach ulcer removal.

President Elpidio Quirino was discharged from the hospital on August 15, 1953 and stayed in Washington D.C. until the 24th.

He went home to the Philippines aboard a Philippine Airlines commercial flight and arrived in Manila on September 7, 1953.

Photo credit: positivelyfilipino.com

Governor-General Ramon Blanco Writes To Rizal

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 30, 1896

Spanish Governor-General Ramon Blanco wrote to Dr. Jose Rizal who was exiled in Dapitan. He informed Rizal that his request to travel to Cuba to serve as a doctor in the Spanish Army during the Cuban Revolution was granted.

On August 1, 1896, Rizal and Josephine Bracken left Dapitan bringing the letter of recommendation from Blanco.

Meanwhile, the Katipunan, a secret society led by Andres Bonifacio was gearing up for a nationwide uprising against the Spaniards.

While on his way to Cuba, Rizal was arrested in Spain and was imprisoned in Barcelona on October 6, 1896.

He was brought back to Manila to stand trial after being implicated in the revolution through the people he knew in the Katipunan.

Photo credit: filipiknow.net

The First Philippine Assembly Election

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 30, 1907

The first elections for the members of the Philippine Assembly were held.

The Partido Nacionalista won the majority seats of the 80 districts against the Progresista party and the Independents.

Sergio Osmeña was elected Speaker and Manuel Quezon became majority floor leader. US Secretary of War William Howard Taft addressed the First Philippine Assembly.

The Philippine Organic Act of 1902 stipulated the establishment of the Philippine Legislature composed of the Philippine Assembly (lower house) and the Philippine Commission (upper house).

Photo credit: en.wikipedia.org

Saturday, July 29, 2023

Juan Antonio de Urbiztondo Sits As Governor-General

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3)

JULY 29, 1850

Juan Antonio de Urbiztondo started his term as the 73rd Governor-General of the Philippines.

Born on January 7, 1803 in San Sebastian, he joined the Spanish military and was the Marquis of La Solana.

During his term, he established the Council of State called the Junta de Autoridades which is composed of himself, the Archbishop of Manila, the president of the Real Audiencia, and officials of the colonial government.

Governor-General Urbiztondo led an invading force to Jolo, Sulu in 1850 and 1851. The bloody military campaign incorporated the Sultanate of Sulu’s territory into the Spanish crown until 1898.

He authorized the establishment of the Banco Español-Filipino in 1851 which became the de facto government bank of the colony. It was later renamed Bank of the Philippine Islands.

His term was characterized by many administrative laws and ended on December 20, 1853.

He was appointed minister of war by a royal decree on October 12, 1856.

Governor-General Juan Antonio de Urbiztondo died on April 26, 1857 in Madrid, Spain.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc.

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 29, 1910

The Philippine Anti-Tuberculosis Society (now called The Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc. or PTSI) was founded by a group of Filipino and Americans who were concerned with the healthcare problem of tuberculosis (TB) in the Philippines.

The creation of the society spearheaded by Eleanor Franklin Egan, its first president together with Sixto delos Angeles aimed to check the alarming rise of tuberculosis which has affected 40,000 Filipinos in 1910.

The Philippine Islands Anti-Tuberculosis Society after its conceptualization was approved in August of 1910.

In 1934, Manuel L. Quezon who was the Senate President steered the passage of the Sweepstakes Law that gave 25% of its proceeds to the society. Through this, the Quezon Institute was built.

On February 29, 1960, the Society was incorporated and registered with the Securities and Exchange Commission.

The Philippine Tuberculosis Society, Inc. (PTSI) is the largest private NGO and longest serving medical institution that is engaged in the detection, control and treatment of tuberculosis in the Philippines.

Photo credit: philtbsociety.wordpress.com

Pres. Manuel Roxas issues Republic Act No. 4

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 29, 1946

Pres. Manuel Roxas issued Republic Act No. 4 which was an Act that made it unlawful for anyone carrying a firearm or ammunition.

This was one of the measures he did to check and stop the communist Hukbalahap movement of Luis Taruc.

On March 6, 1948, Roxas issued a proclamation declaring the Hukbalahap and Mateo Castillo’s Pambansang Kaisahan ng Magbubukid (PKM) as illegal and seditious associations.

Anyone affiliated with the two groups were considered enemies of the state and were to be arrested and imprisoned.

Photo credit: malacanang.gov.ph and choosephilippines.com

Friday, July 28, 2023

Cebu Stamp Friday #8

CEBU CITY COAT OF ARMS
Date of Issue: April 27, 1951
Design: Coat of Arms of the City of Cebu
Denomination:
5c Light Red
6c Golden Brown
18c Blue Gray
Printer: American Bank Note Company

Pres. Duterte and Prime Minister Suga Share Video Messages

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 28, 2021

During the celebration of the 65th Anniversary of Japan-Philippines Friendship, President Rodrigo Duterte and Japanese Prime Minister Yoshihide Suga exchanged video messages in commemoration of the historic occasion. They expressed their well-wishes as the Philippines and Japan make a milestone in diplomatic relations. President Duterte shared a message reiterating that “Japan is a friend closer than a brother.” He highlighted the bilateral relationship of Japan and the Philippines is among those that are deeply transformative, and one that is marked by one triumph after another. Prime Minister Suga gave his appreciation for the strong bond between Japan and the Philippines. He remarked that the bond between the two nations has never been stronger, and highlighted the successful collaborations throughout the years. Prime Minister Suga shared his optimism that the legacy of 65 years of friendship will provide the momentum for further deepening the relations between the two countries. President Duterte gave his well-wishes for the success of the Tokyo 2020 Olympic and Paralympic Games. He praised Japan’s hosting amidst the pandemic as an enduring symbol of humanity’s unbowed spirit. Both leaders hoped that the shared future of the Philippines and Japan will remain bright.

Photo credit: Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan

Governor-General William Forbes Endorses Reconstruction Of Rizal House

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 28, 1909

Governor-General William Cameron Forbes endorsed the reconstruction of Dr. Jose Rizal's house in Dapitan.

Forbes was governor-general of the Philippines from 1909 - 1913, during the term of US President William Howard Taft.

Rizal lived in Dapitan as an exile from July 17, 1892 to July 31, 1896 after the Spanish authorities accused him of sedition and plotting a revolution.

Rizal's house in Dapitan City, Zamboanga del Norte, with its surroundings is now known as the Jose Rizal Memorial Protected Landscape, and also called the Rizal Park and Shrine.

The protected area was established in 1940 as the Rizal National Park with an initial area of 10 hectares through Proclamation No. 616 signed by President Manuel Luis Quezon.

It was enlarged in 2000 to its present size of 439 hectares and a buffer zone of 15 hectares.

Proclamation No. 279 declared it as a protected landscape under the National Integrated Protected Areas System.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Scout Memorial Day

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 28, 1963

United Arab Airlines Flight 869 crashed into the Arabian Sea near India killing a delegation composed of 24 scouts and officials of the Boy Scouts of the Philippines together with 28 passengers and 8 crew members.

The Philippine delegation were on their way to attend the 11th World Scout Jamboree in Marathon, Greece.

Pope Paul VI and world leaders sent condolence messages while Filipinos mourned the deaths of the scouts.

In 1988, Pres. Corazon Aquino declared every July 28 as Scout Memorial Day.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Thursday, July 27, 2023

The 1924 Summer Olympics End

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3)

JULY 27, 1924

The Games of the VIII Olympiad also known as Paris 1924 or the 1924 Summer Olympics ended.

The games officially began with an opening ceremony on July 5 at the Olympic Stadium of Colombes in Paris, France, although some games started on May 4, 1924.

There were 44 countries that competed in the games including the Philippines. For the first time as a nation, the Philippines sent runner David Nepomuceno (May 9, 1900 – September 27, 1939) as its lone athlete.

Although he failed to advance in the 100 meter and 200 meter dashes, he holds the distinction as the First Olympian of the Philippines.

Nepomuceno who hails from Albay, was with the Philippine Scouts and a sailor in the United States Navy. He died on duty in 1939.

When the Philippines joined the International Olympic Committee in 1918, it was a requisite for the country's acceptance to send an athlete at the 1924 Olympic Games.

Photo credit: wikipedia org and International Olympic Committee

Pantaleon Villegas

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 27, 1873

Pantaleon Villegas y Soldi (July 27, 1873 – April 8, 1898) popularly known as León Kilat (Lightning Lion) was born in Bacong, Negros Oriental.

He was the revolutionary leader in Cebu during the Philippine Revolution against Spain.

Villegas led his forces in the Battle of Tres de Abril where they engaged the Spaniards on April 3, 1898.

He was treacherously murdered in Kabkab now called Carcar by Apolinario Alcuitas, a Katipunan recruit on April 8, 1898.

Leaders in Kabkab plotted his death for fear that the Spanish authorities will retaliate against them.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Felix Manalo Establishes The iglesia Ni Cristo

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 27, 1914

The Iglesia ni Cristo or INC, a Christian denomination religion was founded by Felix Manalo who became the first Executive Minister.

After Manalo’s death in 1963, the INC had become a nationwide church with 1,250 local chapels and 35 large cathedrals.

His son Eraño took over and successfully campaigned for the growth of the church locally and internationally until his death in 2009.

Eduardo Manalo succeeded his father Eraño as Executive Minister.

To date, the Iglesia ni Cristo is the 3rd largest religious denomination in the Philippines.

Photo credit: iglesianicristo.website.com

Wednesday, July 26, 2023

Pres. Nixon And Party Arrive In Manila

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 26, 1969

United States President Richard Nixon and First Lady Pat Nixon arrived at the Manila International Airport in Manila for a state visit.

They were welcomed by President Ferdinand E. Marcos, his wife First Lady Imelda R. Marcos, and their children Irene, Ferdinand Jr. and Imee, along with thousands of Filipinos.

They were later given a state dinner hosted by Pres. Marcos and FL Imelda.

That very day, Gloria Diaz who won the Miss Universe Beauty Pageant on July 19, 1969 in Miami, Florida left New York to Manila via Honolulu for her homecoming. The first man, astronaut Neil Armstrong, landed on the moon on the same day.

Pres. Nixon announced that "The United States conquered the moon but the Philippines has conquered the Universe... I think it is significant to note that the first world capital that I am visiting, after having greeted the first men to have set foot on the moon, is Manila, the capital of the Philippines."

Among President Nixon's many visits to the Philippines was when he was vice president in 1956. He affirmed the American government's recognition of Philippine ownership and sovereignty over the American bases on the nation's soil.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Manuel Gonzales Araullo

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 26, 1924

Manuel Gonzales Araullo (January 1, 1853 - July 26, 1924), was the third Chief Justice of the Supreme Court of the Philippines.

He was born in Batangas and graduated at Colegio de San Juan de Letran earning the Bachelor of Arts in Philosophy degree.

He received his Doctorate of Laws from the University of Santo Tomas where he became a professor and taught law.

Araullo was a Relator de la Real Audencia de Manila and its judge-at-large during the Spanish period.

He served as a judge in Manila and was a prosecuting attorney in Cebu and Manila. He was known for his fair judgements thus earning for him the title, “The Just Judge.”

Araullo was appointed as Chief Justice by US President Warren Gamaliel Harding, after the death of Chief Justice Victorino Mapa.

His term began on November 1, 1921 until his demise on July 26, 1924.

Two schools were named after him, the Manuel Araullo High School in Manila and Araullo University in Nueva Ecija.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Franklin Delano Roosevelt Creates The USAFFE

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 26, 1941

Pres. Franklin Delano Roosevelt issued the order creating the United States Army Forces in the Far East (USAFFE) Command that has jurisdiction over the Philippine Department and the military forces of the Commonwealth of the Philippines.

Lt. Gen. Douglas MacArthur was recalled to active duty as the commander of the new command from his positions as military adviser of the Philippine government and Field Marshal of the Philippine Army.

The USAFFE headquarters was at No. 1, Calle Victoria, Manila, Luzon, the Philippines.

Photo credit: wikipedia org

Tuesday, July 25, 2023

Miguel de Benavides Dies

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 25, 1605

Miguel de Benavides y Añoza (c. 1552 – July 25, 1605) was the 3rd Archbishop of the Archdiocese of Manila and founder of the University of Santo Tomas.

He was born in Carrión de los Condes, Spain and was part of the first Dominican Mission that arrived in the Philippines in 1587.

He authored the Doctrina Christiana in Chinese, the first book printed in the Philippines.

After his death, his library and property were donated for the establishment of the Colegio de Nuestra Senora del Santisimo Rosario now the University of Santo Tomas.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Pres. Cory Aquino's 2nd SONA

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 25, 1988

Pres. Corazon Cojuangco Aquino delivered her second State of the Nation Message to Congress.

She was quoted saying “I call on the people to gather the scattered stones of the edifice and build. For I had not been called to power to achieve economic progress at the cost of the ideals of the Revolution that swept me into office.”

She also shared how to make democracy work, people powered capitalism, decentralization, debt burden, foreign policy review, the new army for democracy, the time for action and rediscovering national purpose.

Photo credit: gov.ph

Gerardo “Gerry” de Leon Dies

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 25, 1981

Gerardo “Gerry” de Leon (September 12, 1913 – July 25, 1981) was born Gerardo Ilagan in Manila and was part of the Ilagan clan in showbiz that included Robert Arevalo, Conrado Conde, Angel Esmeralda, Eddie Ilagan, Ronaldo Valdez, Tito Arevalo, and his daughter Liberty Ilagan.

Manong as he was called was a doctor who focused in show business.

He starred in eight movies then did his first directorial debut in 1939.

He was the most awarded film director of the Filipino Academy of Movie Arts and Sciences (FAMAS) Awards. He died at the age of 67.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Monday, July 24, 2023

Pres. Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr.'s 2nd SONA

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 24, 2023

The President of the Philippines and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Philippines Ferdinand "Bongbong" R. Marcos Jr. delivered his 2nd State of the Nation Address (SONA) on July 24, 2023 at 4:00 p.m. at the Batasang Pambansa in Quezon City.

During his inaugural address in 2022, he laid down his administration's 8-point socio-economic agenda.

He returned to report on the nation's current state and the actions being undertaken to address the post-pandemic challenges.

The president announced that the government is working towards improving the state of the country's economy through education, health, food security and employment opportunities.

He assured that in doing so, no Filipino citizen will be left behind. "Ang bawat buhay ay mahalaga—anuman ang edad, kasarian, pangkat, relihiyon, o pisikal na kundisyon. Sila ay kukupkupin at tutulungan."

The president concluded by saying that the state of the nation is "sound" and "improving."

Photo credit: Courtesy of LIVE COVERAGE | (RTVM) Radio Television Malacañang - Presidential Broadcast

Cayetano Arellano And Others Testify Against Self-Rule

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 24, 1899

Cayetano Arellano along with Pedro Paterno, Benito Legarda, Florentino Torres and Felipe Buencamino testified before the Schurman Commission that the Philippines was not ready for self-rule.

The commission, also called the First Philippine Commission, was composed of Jacob Gould Schurman, Admiral George Dewey, Charles Denby, Dean C. Worcester and Maj. Gen. Elwell Otis.

It was established by US President William McKinley on January 20, 1899 to study and make recommendations on what to do with the Philippines after it was ceded by Spain.

Arellano and Paterno and other ilustrados met and founded the Partido Federal on December 23, 1900 to promote the annexation of the Philippines as a state of the United States of America, and was attended by 119 pro-American upper class Filipinos.

When the American Civil Government was established in 1901, Governor William Howard Taft appointed Cayetano Arellano as the first Supreme Court Chief Justice.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Guillermo Estrella Tolentino

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 24, 1890

Guillermo Estrella Tolentino (July 24, 1890 - July 12, 1976), the National Artist for Sculpture was born in Malolos, Bulacan.

He created the University of the Philippines Oblation monument in 1935. He also did the bronze figure of Pres. Manuel Quezon at Quezon Memorial, busts of Jose Rizal at UP and University of the East, the marble statue of Pres. Ramon Magsaysay at GSIS building, and the Bonifacio Monument that stands in Caloocan City.

Tolentino also designed the Seal of the Republic of the Philippines and the medals for the Ramon Magsaysay Awards.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Sunday, July 23, 2023

SAI Building Collapses

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3)

JULY 23, 2004

The eight-story commercial-residential SAI Building located at the corner of Padre Rada and Juan Luna Streets in Divisoria, Binondo, Manila collapsed.

The 5-year-old building has been leaning towards the Italy Marketing building across the street before it crashed on it at 4:40 p.m.

There were no fatalities as authorities safely evacuated around 200 occupants earlier and cordoned the area.

The building housed a branch of the Insular Savings Bank, several residential apartments, and a marketing firm.

Manila Mayor Lito Atienza commended officials of the Manila Disaster Coordinating Council (MDCC), fire marshal Pablito Cordeta and police and barangay officials for the early and orderly evacuation of the building.

The Metropolitan Manila Development Authority, the National Disaster Coordinating Council, the Manila City Government, and the Department of Public Works and Highways helped secure the area.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Peace Treaty and Reparations Agreement Gets Ratified

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 23, 1956

Diplomatic relations between the Philippines and Japan normalized after the Peace Treaty and Reparations Agreement was ratified.

Towards the end of the 1950s, Japanese investors came back to the country.

Having close and friendly relations with Japan has been beneficial for both countries and peoples which cover trade and economic cooperation, political and security, development assistance, socio-cultural and people-to-people exchanges, and labor and cultural issues.

President Gloria Macapagal-Arroyo signed Proclamation No. 854 in 2006 declaring July 23 as Philippines-Japan Friendship Day.

Japan is a major influence in the security situation and economic development of East Asia and the region.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Apolinario Mabini

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 23, 1864

Apolinario Mabini y Maranan (July 23, 1864 - May 13, 1903), the “Brains of the Katipunan” and the “Sublime Paralytic” was born in Barangay Talaga, Tanauan, Batangas from a poor family.

He finished law, supported the reform movement and joined the Katipunan. In 1896, he got sick with polio that paralyzed his legs.

He wrote a war manifesto that warned revolutionary leaders that Spain will cede the Philippines to America.

This caught Gen. Emilio Aguinaldo’s attention who sought for him. Mabini later became Aguinaldo’s trusted adviser and prime minister.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Saturday, July 22, 2023

Apolinario de la Cruz (Hermano Pule)

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 22, 1815

Apolinario de la Cruz (July 22, 1815 – November 4, 1841), popularly known as Hermano Pule (Spanish for "Brother Pule") was born in Lucban, Tayabas (now Quezon province).

At the age of 15, he committed himself to the monastic life but being a native, he was turned down.

He became a lay brother (donado) at the San Juan de Dios Hospital and joined the Cofradia de San Juan de Dios affiliated with the hospital.

He founded the Cofradia de San Jose (Confraternity of Saint Joseph) in 1832 as a response to the racial discrimination by the Catholic church in the Philippines.

The establishment of the confradia, which was exclusive to native Filipinos had 4,500 to 5,000 members from the provinces of Tayabas, Batangas, and Laguna.

Alarmed by the strength of the confradia, the Spanish government headed by Governor General Marcelino de Oraa Lecumberri tried to suppress it on October 23, 1841 by sending 300 troops.

Hermano Pule and his 4000 followers who operated on the foot and slopes of Mount San Cristobal & Mount Banahaw defeated the Spaniards. He was crowned “King of the Tagalogs,” taking on the role of Tagalog messiah.

Another batch of Spanish forces was sent to attack the Cofradia encampment at Mount San Cristobal for 10 days.

Hundreds of Pule's followers were killed and the Filipinos were defeated on November 1, 1841.

Hermano Pule was captured, tried & executed. His remains were dismembered & displayed throughout Tayabas.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Filipino Forces Liberate Pangasinan

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 22, 1898

Revolutionary forces liberated the province of Pangasinan from the Spaniards.

The Battle of Dagupan was fought between the forces of General Francisco Makabulos, chief of the Central and Directive Committee of Central and Northern Luzon, and the troops of General Federico Ceballos of the Spanish Army.

Earlier, on July 18, 1898, the armies of Daniel Maramba of Santa Barbara, Vicente Prado of San Jacinto and Juan Quezada of Dagupan surrounded Dagupan City.

The Spaniards, holed up in the Catholic church, made their last stand.

General Makabulos, who was appointed as brigadier general by General Emilio Aguinaldo, arrived with his army and strengthened the revolutionary forces.

After days of fighting, a white flag was waved and General Ceballos and Governor Joaquin de Orengochea, along with 1,500 Spanish soldiers surrendered.

General Francisco Makabulos organized the first Katipunan chapter in Tarlac after he was inducted by Ladislao Diwa in 1896.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The Philippine National Bank

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 22, 1916

The Philippine National Bank was established as a government-owned bank located at the old Masonic temple in Escolta, Manila.

The Philippine legislature passed Public Act 2612 creating the PNB and replacing the Agriculture Bank to provide financial services to various industries, the agriculture sector and to support the government's economic development effort.

In 1996, the Securities and Exchange Commission approved the Bank's new Articles of Incorporation and by-laws and changed PNB’s status from a government-based to a private corporation.

Photo credit: pnb.com

Friday, July 21, 2023

San Pedro Calungsod

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 21, 1654

Pedro Calungsod (July 21, 1654 - April 2, 1672), was born in Ginatilan, Cebu. He studied at a Jesuit school where he mastered catechism and learned Spanish.

Being groomed for missionary work, he honed his skills in carpentry as well as drawing, painting, singing and acting.

Calungsod was the companion of Spanish Jesuit missionary Diego Luis de San Vitores in propagating Christianity.

In 1668, he accompanied San Vitores to preach to the Chamorro natives in Tumon, Guam.

The village chief named Mata'pang got mad after they baptized his daughter. With the help of Hirao, a villager, they killed San Vitores and Calungsod and the bodies were thrown in the waters of Tumon Bay.

Pope John Paul II beatified Calungsod on March 5, 2000. Pope Benedict XVI canonized him on October 21, 2012.

San Pedro Calungsod is Cebu's first saint and the second Filipino saint after St. Lorenzo Ruiz of Manila.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org and Cebu Stamp Club

Margie Moran Wins The Miss Universe Crown

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 21, 1973

Binibining Pilipinas winner Maria Margarita “Margie” Roxas Moran competed in the 22nd Miss Universe pageant and won. She was also named Miss Photogenic.

There were 61 beautiful ladies from around the world who vied for the title held at the Odeon of Herodes Atticus in Athens, Greece and was the first Miss Universe event to be held in Europe.

The first Filipina to win the title was Gloria Diaz in 1969 and the latest was Pia Wurtzbach in 2015.

Miss Universe is an annual beauty pageant that is handled by the Miss Universe Organization.

It is seen in more than 190 countries and half a billion people worldwide watch it annually. The first Miss Universe Pageant was held in Long Beach, California in 1952.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

The 5th Philippine Legislature Opens

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 21, 1919

The 5th Philippine Legislature opened its regular session.

It was under the sovereign control of the United States of America and enacted laws until March 22, 1922.

The Philippine Senate has 24 members that included Manuel L. Quezon (Senate President), Santiago Fonacier, Rafael Palma, Teofisto Guingona and Lope K. Santos.

There were 91 members of the House of Representatives and among them were Sergio Osmena (Speaker), Claro M. Recto, Elpidio Quirino, Benigno S. Aquino Sr., Manuel C. Briones, Vicente Urgello and Mariano Jesus Cuenco.

Photo credit: xiaochua.net

Cebu Stamp Friday #7

CROSS OF MAGELLAN
Philippine Tourism Series 4
Date of Issue: May 3, 1971
Design & Denomination:

30s Magellan's Cross in Cebu City

Thursday, July 20, 2023

Eugenio H. Lopez Sr.

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3):

JULY 20, 1901

Eugenio "Eñing" Hofileña López Sr. (July 20, 1901 – July 5, 1975), a business figure and media magnate in the Philippines, was the founder of the Lopez Group of Companies.

He was born on July 20, 1901 in Jaro, Iloilo City and belonged to the Lopez clan of Iloilo, one of the richest and influential political families in the Philippines.

His parents were Benito Villanueva Lopez, a governor of Iloilo, and Presentacion Javelona Hofileña. He was the older brother of Philippine Vice President Fernando Lopez.

He married Pacita de Santos Moreno and they have five children: Eugenio Jr., Oscar, Presentation, Manuel and Roberto.

He enrolled at the Ateneo de Manila and graduated cum laude in 1919. He then took up law at the University of the Philippines in Manila and graduated in 1923. He earned his master of laws degree from Harvard University.

After the second World War, he acquired The Manila Chronicle and established the TV network Chronicle Broadcasting Network. It then merged with Alto Broadcasting System that led to the establishment of ABS-CBN where he sat as chairman.

He was also the president of the Manila Electric Company (MERALCO).

He used to be the political supporter of President Ferdinand E. Marcos until they had a falling out.

Don Eugenio H. Lopez Sr. died on July 5, 1975 after a bout with cancer.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Macario Sakay Surrenders

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 2):

JULY 20, 1906

Macario Sakay came down from the mountains to Cavite to attend a banquet at the governor’s residence.

He decided to surrender after the authorities agreed to his terms which include the granting of general amnesty and allowing him to carry firearms.

However, he and his men were seized and disarmed and accused of the crimes under the Brigandage Act.

They were put on trial and were found guilty. Both he and his aide, Col. Lucio de Vega were incarcerated at the Old Bilibid Prison and were hanged on September 13, 1907.

Earlier, with the arrest of President Emilio Aguinaldo and the capture of General Miguel Malvar, US President Theodore Roosevelt announced on July 4, 1902 that the Philippine Insurrection (Philippine-American War) was over.

All revolutionaries were then considered bandits and tried under the Brigandage Act.

Sakay was a general who fought in the Philippine Revolution against the Spaniards and the Philippine-American War.

He was close to Andres Bonifacio, the leader of the Katipunan. He operated in the mountains of Southern Tagalog region and in 1903, he declared himself President of the Republic of Katagalugan.

He decreed that anyone giving aid or comfort to the government of the United States of America will be considered traitors to the native land.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Margarita Roxas de Ayala

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition):

JULY 20, 1826

Margarita Roxas de Ayala (July 20, 1826 - November 1, 1869), one of the greatest businesswoman and matriarch of the Roxas, Zobel and Ayala families was born in Manila.

She was the daughter of Don Domingo Roxas, the founder of Casa Roxas later named Ayala y Compañia (Ayala Corporation at present).

She married Antonio de Ayala, her father’s business partner and they co-founded the Bank of the Philippine Islands.

Margarita also founded the Colegio de la Inmaculada Concepcion de la Concordia or the La Concordia College.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org

Series 3 Begins

On July 16, 2023, I started the 3rd and final series of my Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition). This contains around 370 articles and will commence on July 15, 2024. This is a ten year endeavor which began in 2014 and will end in 2024.

Series 1 was published daily with 370 stories on February 28, 2014 and was completed on December 28, 2014. Series 2 has 370 stories too that began on March 2, 2018 and finished on March 1, 2019.

Through all these years, I always give thanks to God for making me an instrument to promote history through presentations or exhibits in malls, schools, museums, and historical places as well as write about it in a weekly column in the Freeman newspaper (1996-2001) and the daily articles in Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition) Series 1, 2 and 3 totalling more than 1000 stories.

This is my humble contribution for love of country and passion for Philippine philately 🇵🇭🇵🇭🇵🇭

Stamplines

I still recall when I was writing for The Freeman in my weekly Sunday column Stamplines from 1996 to 2001.

It was the late Sir Juanito Jabat whom I got the nod to write about stamps. He then introduced me to Sir Noel Pangilinan.

My articles were published under the Community Section with the ever beautiful Divine Sanchez Ngujo as my editor.

Aside from Stamplines, I got the opportunity to write about Cebu's arts and culture.

Happy Anniversary to The Freeman! 🎉🎊! More power to all of you 🙂

Wednesday, July 19, 2023

Carmen Guerrero Nakpil

Today in Philippine History (Philatelic Edition Series 3)

JULY 19, 1922

Carmen Guerrero Nakpil (July 19, 1922 – July 30, 2018) was a journalist, author, historian, public servant and a recipient of the S.E.A. Write Award.

Born on July 19, 1922 in Ermita, Manila, her parents were Dr. Alfredo Leon Guerrero, and the Philippines first female pharmacist Filomena Francisco.

She belonged to the Guerrero clan, who were painters and poets, scientists and doctors. Essayist Fernando Ma. Guerrero and Manuel S. Guerrero were her uncles. Wilfrido S. Guerrero, the son of Manuel and the National Artist for Theater was her cousin. Her paternal grandfather Leon Ma. Guerrero, a revolutionary and politician was "Father of Philippine Pharmacy" and "Father of Philippine Botany."

She studied at St. Theresa's College in Manila and graduated with a Bachelor of Arts degree in 1942.

Twice a widow, her first marriage was with Lt. Ismael A. Cruz in 1942 and the second was to architect Angel E. Nakpil in 1950.

She has five children, Gemma Cruz Araneta, Ismael Cruz, Ramon Guerrero Nakpil, Lisa Guerrero Nakpil, and Luis Guerrero Nakpil. She has two step-daughters too, Nina Nakpil Campos and Carmina Nakpil Dualan.

From 1967 until 1970, she chaired the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) and is known as the "Grand Old Lady of Public History" for her efforts in bringing history closer to the Filipinos through her books and various newspaper columns.

During her term as NHCP chairperson, historical markers in historical sites and buildings in the country were installed.

She was the representative elected by the UNESCO General Assembly in Paris from 1983 to 1986, and the managing director of the Technology and Livelihood Resource Center in 1984 to 1986.

Carmen Guerrero Nakpil, the grand dame of Philippine letters died on July 30, 2018 at the age of 96.

Photo credit: wikipedia.org and Philippines Graphic