Exploring the Life and Legacy of Isabelo de los Reyes

Introduction

Isabelo de los Reyes y Florentino, affectionately known as Don Belong, stands as one of the most complex, dynamic, and influential figures in Philippine history. His life journey traversed an astonishing array of fields, leaving an indelible mark on each. He was not merely one thing, but many: a pioneering journalist giving voice to the voiceless, a meticulous writer capturing the soul of his people, a groundbreaking folklorist preserving indigenous traditions, a fiery labor leader championing the rights of the working class, a principled politician serving his constituents, and a controversial religious innovator who challenged centuries of established dogma. Understanding Isabelo de los Reyes is essential to grasping the turbulent yet vibrant period of the late 19th and early 20th centuries in the Philippines – a time of burgeoning nationalism, revolution, and the forging of a modern Filipino identity.

His contributions were often radical, sometimes contradictory, but always driven by a fierce love for his country and a deep desire for the upliftment of the Filipino people. From the cobblestone streets of Vigan to the prisons of Spain, from the halls of the Philippine Senate to the picket lines of Manila’s nascent labor movement, Don Belong’s life and legacy reflect the struggles and aspirations of a nation striving for self-determination and cultural recognition. This post aims to explore the multifaceted journey of this remarkable Filipino nationalist, delving into his formative influences, his diverse contributions across various fields, and the enduring impact he continues to have on Filipino culture and society today. Join us as we unravel the compelling story of Isabelo de los Reyes.

The Formative Years: Birth, Education, and Early Influences

The foundations of Isabelo de los Reyes’ extraordinary life were laid in the historic province of Ilocos Sur, shaped by a unique blend of maternal intellectualism, provincial pride, and the simmering socio-political currents of the late Spanish colonial period.

Birth and Ilocano Roots

Isabelo de los Reyes was born on July 7, 1864, in Vigan, the capital of Ilocos Sur, a city renowned for its well-preserved Spanish colonial architecture and rich cultural heritage. He was born into a prominent family; his mother was the celebrated Ilocano poetess Leona Florentino, widely regarded as the “mother of Philippine women’s literature.” Leona’s literary talent and intellectual independence, rare for women of her time, undoubtedly cast a long shadow and provided an early, powerful influence on the young Isabelo. Though his parents separated, and he was primarily raised by the wealthier relatives of his mother, the connection to Leona Florentino remained significant.

His Ilocano heritage was central to his identity. Growing up in Vigan immersed him in the distinct language, customs, and traditions of the Ilocano people. This deep connection to his roots would later fuel his pioneering work in folklore studies and his efforts to promote vernacular languages through journalism. The Ilocos region, known for its resilient and industrious people, also had a history of uprisings against Spanish rule, perhaps subtly shaping his later nationalist inclinations.

Education and Intellectual Awakening

Don Belong received his early education in his hometown, attending the seminary in Vigan. This initial religious schooling provided him with a classical foundation, but his intellectual curiosity soon sought broader horizons. He moved to Manila to pursue higher education, enrolling first at the Colegio de San Juan de Letran, where he earned his Bachelor of Arts degree. Subsequently, he studied law at the prestigious University of Santo Tomas (UST), the oldest university in Asia.

His time in Manila was crucial for his intellectual awakening. The capital was a melting pot of ideas, where news from Europe and discussions about the Philippines’ status under Spanish rule were more prevalent. Despite the conservative atmosphere often maintained by the friar-run institutions, exposure to liberal thought and the burgeoning nationalist sentiments among Filipino intellectuals was unavoidable. He became an avid reader, absorbing not only his law texts but also works on history, literature, and social commentary. It was during his university years that he began to hone his writing skills, contributing articles to various newspapers in Manila, foreshadowing his future career as a prolific journalist and writer. This period marked the transition from a provincial youth to an intellectually engaged young man, increasingly aware of the injustices faced by his countrymen and developing the critical thinking that would define his later activism.

The Journalist and Propagandist: Voice of the People

Before becoming known for his roles in labor and religion, Isabelo de los Reyes first made his name as a fearless journalist and a key, though perhaps less heralded, figure associated with the Propaganda Movement. He wielded his pen as a weapon, establishing platforms for Filipino voices and directly challenging the colonial status quo.

Founding “El Ilocano”

In June 1889, while still in his twenties, De los Reyes achieved a significant milestone in Philippine journalism by founding “El Ilocano”. This was not just another newspaper; it was the first newspaper written primarily in a Philippine vernacular language – Ilocano. Based in Manila but circulating widely in the Ilocos region, its establishment was a revolutionary act. The purpose of “El Ilocano” was multifaceted:

Promote Ilocano Language and Culture: It provided a platform for Ilocano writers and served as a repository for local news, poetry, stories, and cultural information, fostering pride in regional identity.
Educate the Populace: Written in a language understood by the common people of the North, it aimed to raise awareness about local and national issues beyond the Spanish-speaking elite.
Subtle Social Commentary: While cautious due to censorship, the newspaper often contained subtle critiques of local governance and friar abuses, planting seeds of discontent.

Running a vernacular newspaper under Spanish rule was fraught with challenges. De los Reyes faced financial difficulties, logistical hurdles in distribution, and constant scrutiny from censors. Despite these obstacles, “El Ilocano” survived for several years, demonstrating Don Belong’s tenacity and commitment to giving his fellow Ilocanos a voice. It set a precedent for vernacular journalism in the archipelago.

Contributions to the Propaganda Movement

While distinct from the core group based in Spain (like Rizal, Lopez Jaena, and Del Pilar), Isabelo de los Reyes was a vital ally and contributor to the Propaganda Movement from within the Philippines. He actively wrote for Spanish-language newspapers in Manila, such as La España Oriental, Diario de Manila, and La Opinion, often using pseudonyms to protect himself. His articles echoed the Propagandists’ calls for reforms, highlighting the abuses of the colonial administration and the clergy, and advocating for greater Filipino representation and rights.

His connection to the movement solidified when he began contributing articles to La Solidaridad, the official organ of the Propaganda Movement published in Spain. Although geographically distant, his writings provided valuable insights into the conditions within the islands, grounding the reformist campaign in local realities. Compared to Rizal’s more novelistic and Del Pilar’s sharply satirical approach, De los Reyes’ journalistic contributions were often characterized by direct, factual reporting mixed with passionate denunciations of injustice, particularly concerning agrarian issues and friar power in the provinces. He acted as a crucial voice from the homeland, amplifying the grievances of the Filipinos directly under colonial rule.

Notable Journalistic Works and Style

Throughout his journalistic career, De los Reyes tackled a range of themes. He wrote extensively on:

Social Critique: Exposing corruption, land grabbing, forced labor (polo y servicios), and abuses by authorities.
Historical Research: Publishing articles based on his investigations into Philippine history, often challenging Spanish accounts.
Cultural Advocacy: Championing Filipino traditions and languages.

His writing style was often described as fiery, direct, and polemical. He was unafraid to name names or confront powerful figures, which frequently landed him in trouble with the authorities. His journalism was not detached observation; it was advocacy. He saw the press as a tool for education, mobilization, and resistance. This combative yet informative style made him a popular, albeit controversial, figure among readers seeking truth and reform. His early journalistic endeavors laid the groundwork for his later, more radical activities, establishing his reputation as a fearless defender of Filipino interests.

The Folklorist and Historian: Preserving Filipino Culture

Parallel to his journalistic pursuits, Isabelo de los Reyes harbored a deep passion for understanding and preserving the indigenous culture and history of the Philippines. He recognized the importance of documenting the pre-colonial past and the richness of local traditions as foundational elements of a distinct Filipino identity, separate from the imposed Spanish culture.

Pioneering Folklore Studies in the Philippines

Isabelo de los Reyes is widely regarded as the pioneer of folklore studies in the Philippines. His most significant contribution in this field was the publication of the two-volume work “El Folk-lore Filipino” in 1889 and 1890. This groundbreaking collection stemmed from a request by the renowned European ethnologist Dr. Adolf Bastian for Filipino scholars to contribute materials on local folklore for an international exposition. De los Reyes took up the challenge with immense enthusiasm and diligence.

“El Folk-lore Filipino” compiled a vast array of materials primarily from his native Ilocos region, including:

Folktales and Fables
Myths and Legends (including accounts of local deities and spirits)
Songs and Riddles
Proverbs and Sayings
Descriptions of Traditional Rituals, Beliefs, and Superstitions
Information on Traditional Medicine and Healing Practices

He didn’t just collect these materials; he attempted to analyze them, drawing comparisons and seeking patterns, laying the groundwork for a systematic study of Filipino folk traditions. He argued passionately that understanding this “popular wisdom” (saber popular) was crucial for understanding the true spirit and psychology of the Filipino people. He believed that folklore was not mere superstition but a living repository of the nation’s soul, values, and pre-colonial heritage. His work earned him recognition abroad, including a silver medal at the Exposición Filipina in Madrid in 1887 even before the book’s full publication, highlighting the novelty and importance of his research. Folklore studies in the Philippines owe their formal beginnings to Don Belong’s pioneering efforts.

Historical Writings and Contributions

Beyond folklore, De los Reyes also delved into historical writing, driven by a desire to correct the often-biased narratives presented by Spanish chroniclers and to highlight the achievements and complexities of Filipino societies before colonization. His most notable historical work is the “Historia de Ilocos” (published in two volumes, 1890). This work attempted to reconstruct the history of his home region from pre-colonial times up to the late 19th century.

His approach to history was nationalistic. He sought to demonstrate the existence of sophisticated pre-Hispanic societies and counter the notion that Philippine history began only with the arrival of Magellan. He utilized available Spanish accounts but critically re-evaluated them, supplementing them with local traditions and linguistic evidence gleaned from his folklore research. While celebrated for its nationalist perspective and ambition, “Historia de Ilocos” and some of his other historical writings faced criticism even during his time for methodological shortcomings, occasional factual inaccuracies, and interpretations that were sometimes seen as overly speculative or driven by his strong biases against the Spanish clergy. Nonetheless, his historical works were significant for challenging colonial historiography and encouraging Filipinos to take ownership of their past. They represented an early attempt at writing a Philippine history from a Filipino viewpoint.

Exile, Imprisonment, and Radicalization

The outbreak of the Philippine Revolution in 1896 dramatically altered the course of Isabelo de los Reyes’ life. His known nationalist sentiments and critical writings made him a prime target for the Spanish authorities, leading to a period of persecution, exile, and profound ideological transformation.

Arrest and Deportation (1896-1897)

Following the discovery of the Katipunan secret society and the start of the revolution, the Spanish colonial government initiated a widespread crackdown on suspected sympathizers and intellectuals. Despite a lack of concrete evidence directly linking him to the Katipunan’s armed uprising, Isabelo de los Reyes was arrested in February 1897. His reputation as a vocal critic of Spanish rule and his association with nationalist circles were enough to condemn him in the eyes of the authorities.

He was initially incarcerated in the notorious Bilibid Prison in Manila. Conditions were harsh, and he witnessed firsthand the brutality faced by political prisoners. After several months in Bilibid, he was among the many Filipinos deported to Spain. His destination was the infamous Montjuïc Castle prison in Barcelona, a fortress known for holding political dissidents and revolutionaries, particularly anarchists. This period of imprisonment was undoubtedly traumatic but also transformative.

Exposure to European Socialism and Anarchism

His time in Spain, particularly within the politically charged atmosphere of Barcelona and its prisons, exposed De los Reyes directly to the burgeoning radical ideologies sweeping across Europe at the time: socialism and anarchism. Montjuïc Castle held numerous Spanish anarchists and radicals, and through interactions with them and access to smuggled literature, Don Belong encountered the ideas of thinkers like Karl Marx, Mikhail Bakunin, Peter Kropotkin, and Errico Malatesta.

He was particularly drawn to anarchist and socialist critiques of state power, capitalism, and clerical authority, which resonated with his own experiences of oppression under Spanish colonial rule. He saw parallels between the struggles of European workers and peasants and the plight of the Filipino masses. This exposure fundamentally shifted his political outlook. While he had previously focused on nationalist reforms and cultural preservation, his time in exile radicalized him, convincing him that true liberation required not just political independence but also social and economic transformation. He began to envision a future Philippines free not only from Spanish control but also from exploitation by any ruling class, whether foreign or domestic.

Writings from Exile

Even in exile and imprisonment, De los Reyes did not cease his intellectual activities. He continued to write, smuggling manuscripts out of prison whenever possible. His writings from this period reflected his evolving, more radical perspective. One notable work conceived during this time was his “La Sensacional Memoria sobre la Revolución Filipina” (Sensational Memoir on the Philippine Revolution), which he presented to the Spanish Prime Minister upon his eventual release. In this and other writings, he defended the Filipino cause, detailed Spanish atrocities, and began incorporating elements of socialist and anarchist thought into his analysis of the Philippine situation. His exile, therefore, was not just a period of suffering but a crucible that forged a new, more revolutionary Isabelo de los Reyes, setting the stage for his future role as a pioneering labor leader.

The Labor Leader: Championing the Filipino Worker

Upon his return to the Philippines, Isabelo de los Reyes brought back not just his unwavering nationalism but also the radical social and political ideas he had absorbed in Europe. He quickly turned his attention to the plight of the Filipino working class, becoming the leading figure in the nascent Philippine labor movement and earning the title “Father of Filipino Socialism.”

Return to the Philippines (1901)

De los Reyes was released from prison in Spain due partly to the changing political climate and potentially the influence of sympathetic Spanish liberals. He returned to the Philippines in 1901, arriving in a country vastly different from the one he had left. The Spanish were gone, defeated in the Spanish-American War, but replaced by a new colonial power: the United States. While some Filipinos collaborated with the Americans, others continued the struggle for independence, and the social inequities that plagued the Spanish era persisted. Don Belong arrived armed with socialist and anarchist literature and a burning desire to organize the Filipino masses, particularly the urban workers in Manila.

Founding the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD) (1902)

Recognizing the need for collective action to protect workers’ rights, Isabelo de los Reyes spearheaded the formation of the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD) (Democratic Workers’ Union) on February 2, 1902. This marked a pivotal moment in Philippine history as the UOD became the first modern labor union federation in the country. Its establishment was heavily influenced by the socialist and anarcho-syndicalist principles Don Belong had encountered in Barcelona.

The UOD aimed to unite workers across various trades (printers, cigar makers, tailors, etc.) under one banner. Its key objectives included:

Improving Working Conditions: Advocating for shorter working hours, safer workplaces, and an end to abusive practices.
Securing Fair Wages: Demanding better compensation for labor.
Promoting Workers’ Education: Raising class consciousness and literacy among members.
Achieving National Independence: Linking the workers’ struggle directly to the broader fight for Philippine sovereignty. The UOD explicitly adopted a nationalist stance, viewing American colonialism as another form of oppression.

Under De los Reyes’ charismatic leadership as its first president, the UOD grew rapidly, attracting thousands of members. It organized public rallies and demonstrations, culminating in the first organized Labor Day celebration in the Philippines on May 1, 1903 (though initiated by UOD’s successor). Key figures like Hermenegildo Cruz worked alongside De los Reyes in organizing and mobilizing the workers. The UOD introduced radical concepts like the general strike as a tool for workers’ power.

Impact and Suppression of the UOD

The Unión Obrera Democrática had an immediate and significant impact. It successfully organized several strikes, forcing employers to concede to some demands and demonstrating the potential power of organized labor. It instilled a sense of solidarity and class consciousness among Filipino workers that had not existed before. The UOD’s fusion of labor rights advocacy with strong anti-colonial nationalism made it a potent force challenging the new American administration.

However, its radicalism and effectiveness also made it a target. The American colonial government, wary of organized labor and its potential to fuel the ongoing resistance, viewed the UOD with suspicion and hostility. Employers lobbied for action against the union. Using the pretext of a strike organized by the UOD that allegedly violated sedition laws, the authorities arrested Isabelo de los Reyes in August 1902. He was charged with sedition and conspiracy and subsequently sentenced to several months in prison.

His imprisonment effectively crippled the UOD, which soon dissolved. Despite its short lifespan, the UOD laid the foundation for the Philippine labor movement. It demonstrated the power of collective bargaining and political action for workers and cemented De los Reyes’ reputation as a fearless champion of the working class and the undisputed Father of Filipino Socialism. His pioneering efforts ensured that the struggle for social justice would become an integral part of the broader narrative of Philippine nationalism.

The Religious Founder: The Aglipayan Church

Concurrent with his intense involvement in the labor movement, Isabelo de los Reyes played an equally crucial, though perhaps less direct, role in another major upheaval of the era: the religious schism that led to the founding of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), more popularly known as the Aglipayan Church. This act further demonstrated his radical nationalist spirit and his willingness to challenge established institutions.

Context: Nationalism and Religious Schism

The late 19th and early 20th centuries were marked by deep-seated resentment among many Filipinos, particularly the Filipino clergy, towards the Spanish friars who dominated the Catholic Church in the Philippines. These friars were often accused of abuses, land grabbing, racial discrimination against Filipino priests, and actively obstructing Filipino aspirations for reform and independence. The Propaganda Movement itself had heavily criticized the power and influence of the friar orders.

The Philippine Revolution and the subsequent arrival of the Americans created a power vacuum and an opportunity for change within the religious sphere. Father Gregorio Aglipay, a Filipino Catholic priest who had served as Military Vicar General for the revolutionary government under Emilio Aguinaldo, became a central figure in the movement for Filipinization of the Church. There was a strong desire among nationalist Filipinos and many Filipino priests for a church free from foreign control, particularly from the Vatican and the remaining Spanish bishops.

Proclamation of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) (1902)

While Gregorio Aglipay was hesitant to break completely from Rome, hoping for reforms and recognition of the Filipino clergy within the Catholic structure, it was Isabelo de los Reyes who decisively pushed for a formal schism. Fresh from founding the UOD and deeply imbued with nationalist fervor, Don Belong saw the religious sphere as another front in the struggle for national liberation.

During a meeting of the UOD on August 3, 1902, De los Reyes dramatically proposed the establishment of an independent Philippine church, separate from the Vatican, with Gregorio Aglipay as its Obispo Maximo (Supreme Bishop). The proposal was enthusiastically received by the assembled workers and nationalists. Although Aglipay himself was not initially present and only formally accepted the leadership later after attempts at reconciliation with the Vatican failed, De los Reyes’ proclamation is considered the foundational moment of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI).

The key tenets of the newly proclaimed Aglipayan Church included:

Nationalism: A church run by Filipinos, for Filipinos.
Use of Vernacular: Conducting services and translating religious texts into local languages.
Lay Participation: Giving a greater role to lay members in church governance.
Rejection of Friar Authority: Explicitly breaking away from the control of Spanish religious orders and, eventually, the Pope.

De los Reyes’ Theological Contributions and Role

While Aglipay provided the ecclesiastical leadership, Isabelo de los Reyes became the IFI‘s foremost lay leader, propagandist, and theologian. He took it upon himself to provide the intellectual and doctrinal foundations for the new church. Leveraging his skills as a writer and researcher, and influenced by his readings in rationalism, European higher criticism of the Bible, and his own folklore studies, he authored numerous foundational texts for the Aglipayan Church.

These included:

Oficio Divino: The church’s first liturgy book.
Catequesis de la Iglesia Filipina Independiente: The official catechism.
Biblia Filipina: A rationalist interpretation and translation of parts of the Bible.
Genesis Cientifico y Moderno: A work attempting to reconcile science and religion.

His theological views were often radical and syncretic, incorporating elements of rationalism, science, and even his understanding of pre-colonial Filipino beliefs, which sometimes led to doctrinal controversies within the IFI itself. He was appointed Honorary Bishop by Aglipay in recognition of his immense contributions. Though not a cleric, Isabelo de los Reyes‘ intellectual energy and organizing prowess were instrumental in establishing the Iglesia Filipina Independiente as a significant and enduring religious institution in the Philippines, embodying a unique fusion of faith and nationalism.

Later Life: Politics and Continued Advocacy

After his instrumental roles in founding the first labor federation and the first independent Filipino church, Isabelo de los Reyes’ energy did not wane. He transitioned into formal politics, continuing his advocacy for national interests and social justice through legislative channels, while also remaining active in cultural and intellectual pursuits until the end of his life.

Political Career

Following his release from imprisonment related to the UOD activities, De los Reyes entered the political arena under the American colonial regime. His popularity, particularly among the working class and nationalists, translated into electoral success.

Councilor of Manila: He was first elected as a councilor for the city of Manila, using this position to champion urban poor issues and continue advocating for labor rights at the local level.
Senator: His political career culminated in his election to the newly established Philippine Senate in 1922. He represented the first senatorial district, which primarily comprised the Ilocos region (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, Abra, and La Union). This victory was a testament to his enduring connection to his Ilocano roots and his national stature.

As a senator, Don Belong continued to be a voice for the marginalized. His legislative work focused on labor issues, land reform, promotion of Filipino culture, and advocating for greater autonomy and eventual independence from the United States. He remained a staunch Filipino nationalist, often clashing with colleagues who were more accommodating to American rule. His time in the Senate demonstrated his ability to adapt his activism from the streets and printing presses to the formal halls of government.

Continued Writings and Activities

Even while serving as a politician, De los Reyes never abandoned his passion for writing and research. He continued to publish articles, pamphlets, and books on a variety of subjects, including:

History and Folklore: He revisited themes from his earlier works, sometimes revising his interpretations or adding new findings. His interest in Ilocano studies remained strong.
Religion: He continued to write theological and liturgical materials for the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI).
Politics and Social Commentary: He commented on contemporary issues, advocating for his political and social ideals.

He also remained involved in various civic and cultural organizations, lending his name and expertise to causes promoting national heritage and social welfare. He was a constant presence in public discourse, respected even by his political opponents for his intellect and unwavering convictions, although his often-uncompromising stance could also lead to friction.

Declining Health and Death

In his later years, De los Reyes suffered from declining health, eventually becoming paralyzed. Despite his physical limitations, his mind remained sharp, and he reportedly continued to dictate his thoughts and writings. After a long life filled with relentless struggle, intellectual production, and profound contributions to the shaping of the modern Philippines, Isabelo de los Reyes passed away on October 10, 1938, at the age of 74. His death marked the end of an era, but his formidable legacy was already deeply woven into the fabric of the nation.

The Enduring Legacy of Don Belong

The life and legacy of Isabelo de los Reyes are remarkable for their breadth and depth. He was a true Renaissance man of the Philippine nationalist era, leaving significant imprints on nearly every field he touched. His contributions continue to resonate in contemporary Philippine society, reminding us of the complex interplay between culture, politics, labor, and faith in the nation’s journey.

Multifaceted Impact Summarized

It is difficult to overstate the diverse impact of Don Belong:

Journalism: Pioneered vernacular journalism with “El Ilocano,” providing a voice for regional cultures and contributing significantly to the Propaganda Movement‘s efforts from within the Philippines.
Folklore and History: Established folklore studies in the country with “El Folk-lore Filipino” and challenged colonial narratives with works like “Historia de Ilocos,” fostering appreciation for indigenous Filipino culture and a national perspective on the past.
Labor Movement: Founded the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD), the first modern labor federation, introducing socialist ideas and championing workers’ rights, earning him the title “Father of Filipino Socialism.”
Religious Innovation: Played the pivotal role in initiating the schism that led to the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) or Aglipayan Church, providing it with foundational texts and linking religious independence with national sovereignty alongside Gregorio Aglipay.
Politics: Served as a councilor and senator, advocating for labor, nationalism, and social justice within the formal political system.

Influence on Philippine Nationalism and Identity

Isabelo de los Reyes’ most profound legacy lies in his contribution to the shaping of Filipino nationalism and identity. Through his diverse activities, he consistently emphasized the value of native culture, the importance of the vernacular, the dignity of the Filipino worker, and the necessity of political and religious independence.

His folklore and historical research helped Filipinos reclaim their pre-colonial past and appreciate the richness of their indigenous traditions, countering the colonial mentality.
His journalism empowered ordinary Filipinos by speaking to them in their own language and articulating their grievances.
His labor organizing fostered solidarity and linked the struggle for economic justice with the fight for national liberation.
His role in the IFI provided a religious institution that was distinctly Filipino, breaking centuries of foreign ecclesiastical control.

Collectively, these efforts fostered a stronger sense of national consciousness, pride, and self-worth among Filipinos during a critical period of nation-building.

Relevance Today

The issues that Isabelo de los Reyes grappled with over a century ago remain surprisingly relevant today.

The fight for labor rights, fair wages, and safe working conditions continues.
The preservation and promotion of regional cultures and languages (Filipino culture) amidst globalization are ongoing concerns.
The pursuit of genuine national sovereignty, both politically and economically, remains a central theme in Philippine discourse.
The Iglesia Filipina Independiente continues to be a significant religious institution, carrying forward the legacy of its founders.

Remembering Don Belong is not just about honoring a historical figure; it is about engaging with the enduring questions of social justice, cultural identity, and national self-determination that he dedicated his life to addressing. He remains a complex, sometimes controversial, but undeniably pivotal figure whose life and legacy offer valuable lessons for contemporary Philippines.

Conclusion

Isabelo de los Reyes was, without doubt, one of the intellectual giants and most versatile figures of the Philippine nationalist movement. His journey from the historic city of Vigan to the centers of power and protest in Manila and even the prisons of Spain, encapsulates the turbulent transition of the Philippines from a Spanish colony to a nation struggling for its identity and independence in the face of new challenges. As a journalist, folklorist, historian, labor leader, politician, and religious founder, his contributions were immense and transformative.

Often called the “Father of Filipino Socialism” and recognized as the pioneer of folklore studies in the Philippines, Don Belong’s fearless advocacy for the marginalized, his dedication to preserving Filipino culture, and his instrumental role in founding both the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD) and the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) solidify his place as a key architect of modern Filipino thought and society. His life and legacy serve as a powerful reminder of the importance of critical thinking, cultural pride, social justice, and unwavering patriotism. Studying the life of Isabelo de los Reyes is not merely a historical exercise; it is an invitation to understand the deep roots of many contemporary Filipino struggles and aspirations. Let us continue to explore and learn from the lives of such pivotal figures who shaped Philippine history.

Key Takeaways

Isabelo de los Reyes (Don Belong) was a highly influential Filipino intellectual and activist involved in journalism, folklore, history, labor organizing, religion, and politics.
He founded “El Ilocano,” the first vernacular newspaper, contributing significantly to Ilocano culture and the Propaganda Movement.
His work “El Folk-lore Filipino” pioneered folklore studies in the Philippines, preserving indigenous traditions.
He founded the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD), the first Philippine labor federation, introducing socialist ideas and earning the title “Father of Filipino Socialism.”
He played a key role in founding the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) / Aglipayan Church, collaborating with Gregorio Aglipay and writing foundational texts.
His multifaceted life and legacy significantly contributed to Filipino nationalism, cultural identity, and the ongoing struggles for social justice and national sovereignty.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Who was Isabelo de los Reyes? Isabelo de los Reyes (1864-1938), also known as Don Belong, was a prominent Filipino writer, journalist, folklorist, labor leader, politician, and a key founder of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Aglipayan Church). He was a major figure in the Philippine nationalist movement.
What was “El Folk-lore Filipino”? “El Folk-lore Filipino” (1889-1890) was a groundbreaking two-volume work by Isabelo de los Reyes that compiled and analyzed Ilocano folktales, myths, legends, traditions, and beliefs. It is considered the foundational work of Philippine folklore studies.
What is the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD)? The Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD), founded by Isabelo de los Reyes in 1902, was the first modern trade union federation in the Philippines. Influenced by socialist and anarchist ideas, it aimed to unite workers, fight for better wages and conditions, and advocate for national independence.
What is the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (Aglipayan Church) and what was De los Reyes’ role? The Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI), or Aglipayan Church, is an independent Christian church founded in the Philippines in 1902 as a schism from the Roman Catholic Church. Isabelo de los Reyes proposed its formation, nominated Gregorio Aglipay as its first Supreme Bishop, and served as its leading lay theologian, writing many of its foundational texts and catechisms.
Why is Isabelo de los Reyes considered the “Father of Filipino Socialism”? Isabelo de los Reyes earned this title primarily for founding the Unión Obrera Democrática (UOD) in 1902 and introducing socialist and anarchist ideas (particularly anarcho-syndicalism) he encountered during his exile in Spain into the Philippine labor movement. He explicitly linked the workers’ struggle for economic justice with the fight against colonialism and capitalism.

Sources

National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP): Articles and resources on Isabelo de los Reyes. (e.g., https://nhcp.gov.ph/)
Scott, William Henry. (1992). Looking for the Prehispanic Filipino: And Other Essays in Philippine History. New Day Publishers. (Contains analysis of De los Reyes’ historical and folkloric work).
Mojares, Resil B. (2006). Brains of the Nation: Pedro Paterno, T.H. Pardo de Tavera, Isabelo de los Reyes and the Production of Modern Knowledge. Ateneo de Manila University Press. (Provides in-depth intellectual biography).
Agoncillo, Teodoro A. (1990). History of the Filipino People. Garotech Publishing. (Provides context on the revolutionary period and De los Reyes’ role).
Constantino, Renato. (1975). The Philippines: A Past Revisited. Tala Publishing Services. (Offers a nationalist perspective on Philippine history, including the labor movement).
Official Website of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI): Information on church history and founders. (e.g., https://ifi.org.ph/)
Various Academic Journals: Articles on Philippine history, labor studies, and religious studies often feature analyses of De los Reyes’ contributions. (e.g., Philippine Studies: Historical and Ethnographic Viewpoints).

Category: Contemporary Period (1986-Present)