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Have you ever wondered about the unsung heroes who worked tirelessly alongside Emilio Aguinaldo for Philippine independence? While Emilio Aguinaldoโs name echoes through history, his cousin, Baldomero Aguinaldo, played a crucial role, often overlooked in the grand narrative of the revolution.
The Early Years: A Shared Vision for Freedom
Baldomero, born in Kawit, Cavite, shared the same revolutionary fervor as his cousin Emilio. They both envisioned a Philippines free from Spanish rule. Even before the revolutionโs eruption, Baldomero was a key figure in the Katipunan, the secret society that lit the flames of rebellion.
A Family Affair: Leading the Charge in Cavite
When the revolution exploded in 1896, Baldomero was at the forefront, leading the fight in Cavite.
- Military Prowess: He commanded troops with skill and courage, contributing significantly to the early successes against the Spanish in their stronghold.
- Civil Administrator: As the revolution gained ground, he took on the role of Secretary of War in Aguinaldoโs revolutionary government, showing his ability to navigate both the battlefield and the complexities of administration.
Biak-na-Bato: Seeds of Discord and Shifting Tides
The Pact of Biak-na-Bato, a truce agreement with Spain in 1897, saw the revolutionary leaders, including Baldomero, accepting exile in Hongkong. However, this truce sowed seeds of discord among the Filipinos.
- Financial Disputes: The money paid by Spain for the truce sparked disagreements over its distribution, revealing fissures within the revolutionary ranks.
- Aguinaldoโs Dominance: While Baldomero remained loyal to Emilio, the latterโs growing dominance and tendency toward favoritism caused some friction.
A New Adversary: Shifting Allegiances and the American Arrival
The arrival of American forces in 1898 changed everything. While Emilio navigated a complex dance with Admiral Dewey, seeking recognition for Philippine independence, Baldomero found himself at odds with some of the decisions.
- Opposing Joint Occupation: He argued against allowing American troops to share control of Manila, a point of contention that foreshadowed future conflict.
- The Waterworks Issue: Baldomero clashed with the Americans over control of Manilaโs waterworks, demonstrating his commitment to Filipino sovereignty.
Malolos: The Quest for a Unified Front
The establishment of the Revolutionary Government at Malolos saw Baldomero continuing to serve as Secretary of War. However, internal divisions persisted.
- Conservative vs. Radicals: He aligned himself with the conservatives, advocating a more cautious approach and seeking to secure a favorable arrangement with the United States, preferably a protectorate.
- Clash with Luna: His relationship with Antonio Luna, the fiery and ambitious Director of War, was strained, reflecting the deep divisions within the revolutionary leadership.
The Inevitable Clash: The American Occupation and Armed Resistance
As American intentions to annex the Philippines became clear, Baldomero, like many Filipinos, felt betrayed. The dream of independence seemed to be slipping away.
- Preparing for War: He, along with Luna, began preparing for armed resistance, convinced that the Americans were not the liberators they initially appeared to be.
- Organizing Defenses: Baldomero played a key role in organizing the Filipino defenses around Manila, readying his forces for the inevitable clash.
Beyond the Battlefield: The Unsung Contributions
While Baldomero is remembered primarily for his military role, his contributions went far beyond the battlefield.
- Organizing Elections: He played a significant role in the organization of elections in various provinces, attempting to establish a functioning civil government under Filipino control.
- Maintaining Order: Amidst the turmoil of war and political maneuvering, he worked to maintain order and discipline within the revolutionary ranks, a difficult task given the internal divisions.
A Lasting Legacy: The Fight for Filipino Sovereignty
Baldomero Aguinaldoโs legacy is one of unwavering commitment to Philippine independence. Though often overshadowed by his cousinโs prominence, his contributions to the revolution were significant and enduring.
- Military Leadership: His military prowess and strategic insights played a key role in the early successes against the Spanish.
- Political Insight: His understanding of the complex political landscape and his advocacy for a cautious approach demonstrate his political acumen.
- Advocate for Order: Amidst the chaos of war, he strived to maintain order and justice, reflecting his commitment to a better future for his people.
While history may not remember Baldomero Aguinaldo as prominently as Emilio, his legacy lives on in the hearts of those who recognize his crucial role in the long struggle for Philippine independence.
LeRoy, James A. (James Alfred), 1875-1909. The Americans in the Philippines, a history of the conquest and first years of occupation, with an introductory account of the Spanish rule. Boston and New York, Houghton Mifflin Company, 1914.