- Kartilya ng Katipunan:

- When: The "Kartilya ng Katipunan" was written in 1896. It was used by the Katipunan from
1896 to 1897.
- Where: It was distributed among members of the Katipunan in the Philippines. The Katipunan
operated primarily in and around Manila, but its influence extended to other provinces.

- Gunita ng Himagsikan:
- When: Emilio Aguinaldo wrote "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" between 1928 and 1946. The first
volume was published later in 1964.
- Where: The memoirs detail events that took place throughout the Philippines, primarily in
Cavite and other regions involved in the Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War.

Filipino Grievances Against Governor Wood

- When: The document was adopted as a joint resolution by the upper and lower houses of the
Philippine Legislature on November 17, 1926 .
- Where: The document was a collective output of Filipino politicians, representing the Philippine
Legislature .

Customs of the Tagalogs (Juan de Plasencia)

- When: Written in the 1580s and published in October 1589 .
- Where: Written in the Philippines, specifically in Nagcarlan, Laguna .

First Voyage Around the World (Antonio Pigafetta)

- When: The book was published from 1550 to 1559 by Italian historian Giovanni Battista
Ramusio. Another source mentions the first publication date as January 1, 1524 .
- Where: The original manuscript was found in Biblioteca Ambrosiana, Milan .

President Corazon Aquino’s 1986 U.S. Congress Speech & Democratic Transition
- Date Delivered: September 18, 1986
- Location: Joint Session of the United States Congress, Washington, D.C.
- Context: This speech marked President Aquino’s first official visit to the U.S. as the newly
elected leader of the Philippines following the peaceful People Power Revolution. She appealed
for support in rebuilding Philippine democracy after the fall of Ferdinand Marcos.

---

Filipino Grievances Against Governor Wood

- Date Published: November 17, 1926
- Location: Philippine Legislature (Upper and Lower House)*
- Context: This was a joint resolution drafted by Filipino leaders, notably Jose Abad Santos and
Jorge Bocobo, expressing strong opposition to the policies of U.S. Governor-General Leonard
Wood. The grievances centered on Wood’s refusal to cooperate with Filipino officials and his
undermining of self-governance efforts during the American colonial period
KARTILYA NG KATIPUNAN (EMILIO JACINTO)

The "Kartilya ng Katipunan," authored by Emilio Jacinto, served as the moral and ethical
compass for members of the Katipunan, a secret revolutionary society in the Philippines aiming
to overthrow Spanish colonial rule. More than just a set of rules, it was a philosophical treatise
outlining core values and principles for Katipuneros.

Kartilya emphasizes that true honor and nobility come from one's character, not from high birth
or skin color. It stresses the importance of living a life guided by reason and justice, being
truthful, and fulfilling one's duties. It promotes charity and compassion towards others,
especially the less fortunate.

Equality is a central theme, advocating for the equal treatment of all individuals regardless of
their race, social status, or origin. The document places a high value on women, recognizing
their role as partners in the struggle for liberation and emphasizing the need to respect their
honor.

Kartilya calls for selfless service to the nation, urging members to prioritize the welfare of the
Philippines above personal interests. It promotes the values of hard work, perseverance, and
courage in the face of adversity. It also stresses the importance of leading by example, setting a
good example for others to follow.

In essence, the "Kartilya ng Katipunan" is a comprehensive guide for ethical and nationalistic
behavior, aiming to transform not only Philippine society but also the character of its people. It
seeks to create a virtuous, enlightened, and independent nation founded on the principles of
equality, justice, and love of country.
MGA GUNITA NG HIMAGSIKAN (EMILIO AGUINALDO)

Emilio Aguinaldo's "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" (Memoirs of the Revolution) is a pivotal

autobiographical work that offers a firsthand account of the Philippine Revolution against
Spanish colonial rule and the subsequent Philippine-American War. Written by the first
President of the First Philippine Republic, this memoir provides invaluable insights into a
tumultuous period of Philippine history from the perspective of one of its central figures.

The Author: Emilio Aguinaldo

Emilio Aguinaldo (1869-1964) was a prominent Filipino revolutionary, statesman, and military
leader. Born in Kawit, Cavite, he rose to prominence as a municipal leader and later joined the
Katipunan, a secret society dedicated to overthrowing Spanish rule. His military successes
against the Spanish forces propelled him to leadership within the revolutionary movement.
Aguinaldo declared Philippine independence on June 12, 1898, and was subsequently elected
as the first president of the First Philippine Republic under the Malolos Congress. His leadership
continued through the Philippine-American War, where he led Filipino forces in resistance
against the new American colonizers .

Purpose and Genesis of the Memoirs

Aguinaldo penned his memoirs between 1928 and 1946, with the first volume, "Mga Gunita ng
Himagsikan," published in 1964. The primary purpose of this extensive work was to provide his
personal experiences and insights into the revolution, effectively shaping his historical legacy
and offering a narrative from his viewpoint. In his preface, Aguinaldo stated that his account was
based on a diary he meticulously kept, various documents he preserved, and family stories
passed down through generations. This makes the memoir a crucial primary source for
understanding the events of the revolution .

Key Contents and Themes

The "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" covers a broad spectrum of events and themes, detailing
Aguinaldo's journey from a young revolutionary to the head of the nascent Philippine Republic.

Revolutionary Struggle Against Spain

The memoirs provide detailed descriptions of battles and military strategies employed by the
Filipino forces against the Spanish colonizers. Aguinaldo recounts key engagements and the
challenges faced by the revolutionaries, offering a glimpse into the tactical decisions and
leadership required during wartime. His account highlights the unwavering determination of
Filipinos to achieve independence from Spain.
Internal Power Struggles and Controversies

A significant and often controversial aspect of the memoirs is Aguinaldo's perspective on the
internal power struggles and factionalism within the revolutionary movement. This includes the
contentious events surrounding the Tejeros Convention, where he was elected president, and
the subsequent death of Andrés Bonifacio, the founder of the Katipunan. Aguinaldo's narrative
presents his justification for his actions during these critical moments, which remain subjects of
historical debate .

Declaration of Independence and the First Republic

The memoirs chronicle the momentous declaration of Philippine independence on June 12,
1898, in Kawit, Cavite, and the subsequent establishment of the First Philippine Republic.
Aguinaldo details the aspirations for self-governance and sovereignty that fueled these historic
events, presenting his role as instrumental in these foundational moments of the nation .

Transition to the Philippine-American War

Aguinaldo's account also sheds light on the dramatic shift from fighting Spain to resisting
American occupation. He describes the initial alliance with the United States against Spain,
followed by the betrayal of trust when the U.S. refused to recognize Philippine independence,
leading to the outbreak of the Philippine-American War. His memoirs offer his viewpoint on the
strategic and moral dilemmas faced by the Filipino leadership during this new conflict.

Historical Significance and Limitations

As a primary source, "Mga Gunita ng Himagsikan" is invaluable for understanding the Philippine
Revolution and the early years of the republic. It offers a unique window into the thoughts,
motivations, and experiences of a key participant. However, like any personal memoir, it is
inherently subjective and may contain personal biases. Historians emphasize the importance of
viewing Aguinaldo's account critically and cross-referencing it with other historical sources to
achieve a balanced and comprehensive understanding of this complex period in Philippine
history. Despite its potential limitations, the memoirs remain an indispensable document for
studying the Philippine struggle for independence .
FIRST VOYAGE AROUND THE WORLD (ANTONIO PIGAFETTA)

Antonio Pigafetta was a Venetian scholar and explorer, best known for chronicling Ferdinand
Magellan's expedition, the world's first circumnavigation. He was born in Vicenza, Republic of
Venice (present-day Italy) between 1480 and 1491, and died around 1531.

Pigafetta, a Venetian explorer, was part of the expedition that completed the first
circumnavigation of the globe. The excerpt primarily focuses on the encounters he and the other
explorers had with the indigenous people they met during their travels. He provides rich
descriptions of the people, their customs, and daily lives, as well as the interaction between
them and the Europeans.

1. First Encounters with Local People

●​ Pigafetta describes how they met the locals who lived near a palm tree that was used
to make wine, oil, and vinegar. The people were seen extracting substances from the
tree, and the explorers were fascinated by the techniques.
●​ The locals also showed them how they used various plants and natural materials for
food and daily life. He mentions a particular kind of tree whose gum they used, which
was wrapped in palm or fig leaves.

2. The Island of Zunuan

●​ The first king they encountered was from an island called Zunuan. Pigafetta and the
explorers were introduced to the local leaders, and a lot of attention was paid to
exchanging gifts. The explorers provided the kings with mirrors, knives, and other
trinkets.
●​ A lot of time is spent discussing the etiquette around presenting gifts, such as when
the king raised his hands toward the sky, showing reverence to his gods, which Pigafetta
found interesting.

3. Kings and their Relations

●​ The king of Zunuan asked for help with various matters, and the captain-general
arranged a visit to their palace. Pigafetta describes the palace, which was high up and
reached by a ladder, as being made of bamboo and palm leaves.
●​ The kings were pleased with the gifts, and Pigafetta describes how they interacted,
including the exchange of food. The explorers ate with the kings and were treated with
great respect. There was wine and food offered, and the exchange between the
explorers and the kings was ceremonial.
4. Christian Practices and Religious Ceremonies

●​ Pigafetta describes how they celebrated Mass and how the local people, including the
kings, participated in the ceremony. There was a sense of reverence among the locals,
who were fascinated by the cross and the Christian rituals.
●​ The captains and the kings exchanged gestures of respect, raising their hands and
thanking each other. The ceremony was a demonstration of the growing relationship
between the European explorers and the local leaders.

5. The Kings' Rituals and the Ships' Departure

●​ After the religious ceremony, the captain-general asked the kings whether they were
willing to let the Europeans settle in their land, but they declined. Instead, they promised
to help them find their way, and the explorers proceeded to different islands, including
Zubu and Mazaua.
●​ Pigafetta provides insights into the natural environment, including the wildlife on the
islands, which they described as having birds as large as domestic chickens, and how
the people used their resources in daily life.

6. Observations on Local Customs

●​ Pigafetta noted several details about the customs of the people they encountered,
such as how they dressed, their food, and how they constructed their houses. There was
also discussion of local animals and their behavior, such as the turtles and birds.

7. End of the Expedition

●​ The final parts of the excerpt describe their departure from the islands, after
exchanging more gifts and forming a positive relationship with the kings. The explorers
sailed onward to further destinations, continuing their journey around the world.

In summary, Pigafetta’s account provides detailed observations about the local people, their
customs, the exchange of goods and culture, and the interactions between the indigenous kings
and the European explorers. It highlights both the fascination and respect the explorers had for
the people they encountered, as well as the challenges of building relationships in unfamiliar
lands.
CUSTOMS OF THE TAGALOGS (JUAN DE PLACENCIA)

I. Social Stratification and Mobility:

- Three-Tiered System: Early Philippine societies were characterized by a hierarchical structure,

primarily divided into the nobles (maharlika), commoners (aliping namamahay), and slaves
(aliping sa guiguilir). This system was not entirely rigid, as social mobility was possible under
certain conditions.
- Nobility (Maharlika):
- The maharlika were considered the elite class, enjoying privileges such as exemption from
taxation and tribute.
- They were expected to provide military service to the dato (chief) and were supported by him
in return.
- Their status was hereditary, but could be lost through certain actions or circumstances.
- Commoners (Aliping Namamahay):
- The aliping namamahay had more rights than the aliping sa guiguilir.
- They possessed their own property, cultivated their own lands, and lived in their own houses.
- They were obligated to provide service to their lord, but this service was limited and defined by
custom.
- They could not be sold or removed from their barangay without their consent.
- Slaves (Aliping sa Guiguilir):
- The aliping sa guiguilir were at the bottom of the social hierarchy.
- They lived in their master's house and worked on his land.
- They had limited rights and could be sold or transferred by their master.
- However, even slaves had certain protections under customary law.
- Social Mobility:
- Individuals could move between classes through marriage, manumission (freeing a slave), or
acts of bravery or service.
- A slave could be freed by paying off their debt, by being ransomed, or through the generosity
of their master.
- Marriage between members of different classes could also affect the status of their offspring.

II. Economic Activities and Resource Control:

- Subsistence Economy: Early Philippine societies were primarily agrarian, with rice cultivation
being a central economic activity.
- Fishing and Trade: Fishing and trade were also important sources of livelihood. Coastal
communities relied heavily on fishing, while trade with neighboring islands and foreign
merchants was common.
- Resource Control: The dato (chief) often controlled access to key resources such as land,
water, and fishing grounds. This control allowed him to maintain his power and influence within
the community.
- Tribute and Labor: Commoners and slaves were obligated to provide tribute and labor to the
dato in exchange for protection and access to resources.

III. Marriage and Family Customs:

- Marriage Arrangements: Marriages were often arranged by families to consolidate alliances or

improve social standing.
- Dowry (Bigay-kaya): The groom's family typically provided a dowry to the bride's family. This
dowry could consist of land, gold, or other valuable items.
- Polygamy: While monogamy was the norm, polygamy was practiced, especially among the
ruling class. However, only one wife was considered the legitimate wife.
- Divorce and Inheritance: Customary laws governed divorce and inheritance. In case of
divorce, the dowry was typically returned to the husband's family. Inheritance laws were
complex, with different rules for legitimate and illegitimate children.

IV. Legal and Judicial Systems:

- Customary Law (Adat): Early Philippine societies were governed by customary laws, which
were passed down orally from generation to generation.
- Dispute Resolution: Disputes were typically resolved by the dato or a council of elders. Trials
by ordeal were sometimes used to determine guilt or innocence.
- Punishments: Punishments for crimes varied depending on the severity of the offense and the
social status of the offender. Fines, imprisonment, and enslavement were common forms of
punishment.
- Debt and Slavery: Debt was a major cause of enslavement. Individuals who were unable to
repay their debts could be forced into servitude until the debt was satisfied.

V. Spanish Influence and Misunderstandings:

- Spanish Colonization: The arrival of the Spanish in the 16th century had a profound impact on
Philippine societies.
- Misinterpretations: Spanish colonizers often misunderstood the nuances of the indigenous
social structure, leading to misinterpretations and the imposition of Spanish legal and
administrative systems.
- Alcaldes-Mayores: Spanish officials known as alcaldes-mayores often struggled to differentiate
between the aliping namamahay and aliping sa guiguilir, leading to abuses and exploitation.
- Transformation of Social Structures: Spanish colonization gradually transformed indigenous
social structures, leading to the decline of the traditional elite and the rise of a new class of
wealthy landowners.

VI. Key Concepts and Terms:

- Dato/Rajah/Lakan: Chieftain or ruler of a barangay.

- Maharlika: Noble class, freeborn individuals.
- Aliping Namamahay: Commoner class, with limited rights and obligations.
- Aliping sa Guiguilir: Slave class, with very limited rights and subject to the will of their master.
- Bigay-kaya: Dowry, property given by the groom's family to the bride's family.
- Adat: Customary law, traditional rules and practices.
- Barangay: A socio-political unit, typically consisting of 30-100 families.

FILIPINO GRIEVANCES AGAINST GOVERNOR WOOD

Governor-General Leonard Wood during the American colonial period in the Philippines,
particularly around 1929:

📜 Historical Context
These documents stem from the *Commission on Independence* and Filipino leaders' formal
protest against the policies and actions of Governor-General Leonard Wood. The grievances
reflect deep dissatisfaction with American colonial governance and a strong desire for Philippine
independence.

-Key Grievances and Accusations

1. Undermining Filipino Self-Governance

- Refused to approve laws deemed necessary for public welfare.
- Overrode the authority of Filipino department heads and constitutional advisers.
- Replaced qualified Filipinos with Americans in government posts, reversing the policy of
Filipinization.

2. Violation of Legislative Powers

- Imposed conditions on laws passed by the Philippine Legislature.
- Revived outdated budget items and vetoed current ones, violating the Organic Law.
- Failed to submit the annual budget on time and in proper form.
- Made appointments without legislative approval and retained officials whose salaries were
vetoed.

3. Economic Exploitation and Foreign Favoritism

- Attempted to dismantle government-owned corporations and sell them to powerful American
interests.
- Tried to close the Philippine National Bank, vital for economic development.
- Sought to open Philippine resources to exploitation by unscrupulous foreign entities.

4. Suppression of Civil Liberties

- Illegally arrested and imprisoned Filipino legislators and public officials who opposed his
policies.
- Deported citizens without due process.
- Repeatedly targeted members of national development boards and corporations with arrests
and persecution.

5. Political Manipulation and Propaganda

- Intervened in local and national elections, violating principles of self-rule.
- Sanctioned anti-Filipino propaganda campaigns in the United States.
- Created discord between Christian and Muslim Filipinos through divisive policies.

6. Subversion of Constitutional Principles

- Issued Executive Orders that bypassed legislative authority, particularly Executive Order No.
37.
- Ignored laws governing the Board of Control, threatening the separation of powers.
- Converted the Philippine government into a de facto absolute regime, eroding constitutional
rights.

🗣 Filipino Response and Call to Action

Filipino leaders, through the Commission on Independence, issued a solemn protest:
- They denounced Governor Wood’s actions as unconstitutional and oppressive.
- They reaffirmed their commitment to justice, liberty, and national sovereignty.
- They called for the preservation of Filipino rights and the acceleration of independence from
American rule.

--
Governor-General Leonard Wood was accused of undermining Filipino autonomy, violating
constitutional laws, favoring American interests, suppressing civil liberties, and obstructing
economic and political progress. These grievances fueled the Filipino independence movement
and highlighted the urgent need for self-governance.

PRESIDENT CORAZON AQUINO'S 1986 U.S. CONGRESS SPEECH & DEMOCRATIC

TRANSITION

### 🗣️ Aquino’s Address to the U.S. Congress

- President Corazon Aquino opened her speech by recalling her grief-stricken departure from
the U.S. three years earlier to bury her husband, Benigno "Ninoy" Aquino Jr., a martyr for
Philippine democracy.
- She returned not as a widow, but as the elected leader of a free people, symbolizing the
triumph of democratic ideals over dictatorship.
- Her speech was a plea for continued American support—not through military aid, but through
moral solidarity and economic cooperation.

### 🕊️ Ninoy Aquino’s Legacy

- Ninoy’s assassination galvanized the Filipino people, sparking a peaceful revolution that
ultimately toppled the Marcos dictatorship.
- His imprisonment, torture, and exile were emblematic of the regime’s brutality, yet he remained
steadfast in his commitment to democracy.
- He rejected offers of exile and safety, choosing instead to return to the Philippines, where he
was tragically killed. His death became a rallying cry for freedom.

### ⚖️ The Fall of Dictatorship and Rise of Democracy

- The Marcos regime had dismantled democratic institutions, shut down Congress, and ruled
through fear and repression.
- Despite this, the spirit of democracy endured—kept alive by figures like Ninoy and the
resilience of the Filipino people.
- Aquino’s rise to power was marked by a snap election in 1986, which, despite being marred by
violence and fraud, resulted in a popular uprising (EDSA People Power Revolution) that
restored democratic governance.

### 🛡️Rebuilding Constitutional Government

- Vice President Salvador Laurel emphasized the peaceful transition and the commitment to
rebuild constitutional structures.
- A Constitutional Commission was formed to draft a new charter, aiming to restore civil liberties
and institutional checks and balances.
- Aquino and Laurel pledged to uphold democracy, avoid authoritarianism, and ensure that
power would be exercised with integrity and respect for human rights.

### 🌍 International Cooperation & Poverty

- Aquino highlighted the importance of U.S.-Philippine relations, especially in terms of economic
aid and mutual respect.
- She acknowledged the deep poverty and unemployment in the Philippines, urging that
democracy must deliver tangible benefits to the people—not just abstract ideals.
- Her meeting with President Reagan was framed as a step toward deeper cooperation and
shared democratic values.

---

## TL;DR: The Heart of the Message

President Aquino’s speech was a powerful testament to the Filipino people's struggle for
freedom. It honored Ninoy Aquino’s sacrifice, condemned the abuses of dictatorship, and
celebrated the peaceful restoration of democracy. She called on the U.S. to support the
Philippines not with weapons, but with solidarity and aid that would uplift the poor and
strengthen democratic institutions.