The sprawling tapestry of Philippine history is intricately woven with the threads of diverse peoples and cultures, shaped profoundly by centuries under the Spanish Empire. Among the distinct social strata that emerged during this era, the Filipino Insulares occupied a unique and often complex position. These were individuals of pure Spanish descent who, unlike their…
The 16th century marked a period of intense European exploration, driven by a quest for new lands, resources, and trade routes. Following Christopher Columbus’s “discovery” of the Americas, Spain turned its gaze westward across the vast Pacific Ocean. Its objective: to reach the fabled Spice Islands of Southeast Asia and secure a foothold in the…
The year is 1565. After decades of failed attempts following the initial contact by Ferdinand Magellan in 1521, Spain finally succeeded in establishing a permanent foothold in the archipelago that would eventually become known as the Philippines. This pivotal moment in Philippines History was spearheaded by the expedition of Miguel López de Legazpi, a seasoned…
The influence of American missionaries in the Philippines has left a lasting impact on the nation’s history and culture. Originating from the Latin word “missio,” meaning “to send,” the term “missionary” reflects the dedication of individuals who traveled far to share their faith and values. Their work extended beyond religion, shaping education, healthcare, and community…
World War II brought turmoil and conflict globally. The Philippines especially felt this during the Japanese occupation. A debated topic is the existence of Japanese 5th columnists in the Philippines. We question if they truly existed and the impact they had during and after the war. This article aims to uncover the truth about Japanese…
Right at midnight on June 30, 1947, the Philippine Commonwealth Army’s bravery was officially recognized. They had been serving with the U.S. Armed Forces in the Far East (USAFFE). This was thanks to General Order #168 by the Army Forces Western Pacific1. This event ended a critical chapter in American military history, mixing the courage…