Memorial Monument in Balintawak

 barrio pugad lawin balintawak

During your elementary days, studying History, you must have heard one or twice about the significance of the Cry of Balintawak and what it has dedicated to our country. Barrio Pugad Lawin Balintawak was the location where the "Cry of Pugad Lawin", also known as "Cry of Balintawak" came to be. It occured last August 23, 1896. It was a historical event that made a mark during Philippine Independence, when Andres Bonifacio along with the Katipuneros tore their cedulas which is paper wherein an order or authorization is written by those in power.

 As Bonifacio said "Bring out your cedulas and tear them to pieces to symbolize our determination to take up arms!" The Katipuneros did as they were told, shouting "Long live Philippines!". That particular act of rebellion against the Spanish officials signified the beginning of the Philippine Revolution. Not long after, some Katipuneros who came from Manila warned Andres Bonifacio that Spanish guards were onto them. Bonifacio got himself ready together with his comrades to deploy. That same day, fear were arising from each of the Katipuneros but all of them are struggling for independence. Their hearts are filled with fury to gain the freedom, we Filipinos deserve to have. 
Melchora Aquino, also known as Tandang Sora opened her home to the Katipuneros on August 24. She played a great role for she served as the nurse and mother to the brave Katipuneros and therefore given the title "Mother of Katipunan". On the next day, August 25 1896, the Spanish civil guards made an appearance as Bonifacio and the Katipuneros were planning and discussing their strategy as they face their revolt against Spain. Rifle-fire were bursting from the approaching Spaniards and the Katipuneros prepared themselves to deploy. The Katipuneros lost two men while the Spaniards lost one. Having weapons that such as bolos and few guns, Bonifacio and his men decided to retreat however, the Spaniards, being greatly outnumbered decided to retreat also. Both party decided to retreat and easily prevented a violent encounter.

The first battle happened therefore on August 25, 1896, in Pasong Tamo. In Balara, Bonifacio along with his generals planned the assault in Manila. But Bonifacio did not prolong his stay in Balara for he and his men continued their way to Marikina, then to Hagdang Bato. On August 28, 1896, He issued a proclamation forcing his countrymen to stand and take and the nation’s cause. On August 29, 1896, he marked it as the day of the country to oppose to the Spaniards. During the present time, the Cry of Pugad Lawin in celebrated and regarded as the National Heroes Day which is made a working holiday in the Philippines.

Get to know more about some of our best heroes by clicking the links below:
"Andres Bonifacio: Life as a hero"
"Andres Bonifacio: Deep Down"
"Melchora Aquino: A Nurturing Mother to All"