Comprehensive Land Use Plan 2022-2032

Volume III Sectoral Studies

Chapter I

HISTORY AND GENERAL OVERVIEW OF LIAN

1.1 General History

Centuries before Ferdinand Magellan discovered the Philippine Island, Chinese

traders were already bartering their porcelains, saucers, beads, needles and the like
with cotton, pearls, shells and other products of the natives. In Luzon, especially in
Batangas Province, some of these Chinese traders settled along the seashore of a
community called San Diego (now barangay of Lian) until the Spaniards came to the
place. Incidentally, a Chinese trader whose name was “LI-AN” was asked by the
Spaniards leader “Que es el nombre este lugar? (What is the name of this place?).
Thinking that his name was the one being asked, the Chinaman answered “LI-AN”.
The Spaniard, thinking that this was already a town, nodded and said “Si, si, el
pueblo de Lian” (Yes, yes, the town of Lian).

As years passed by, the Chinese settlers gradually disappeared from the community
and possibly established themselves in other places where trade and commerce
thrive better. Today, not even one of these foreigners could be found.

Originally, Lian was a barrio of the Municipality of Nasugbu. But through the able
leadership of one “Kapitan Isko Lejano”, the separation of Lian from its mother
municipality and its subsequent conversion into a municipality was worked out,
leading to the organization of the municipal government in the year 1914-1915.
Kapitan Isko Lejano was appointed First Municipal President (June 15, 1915-1917).
With the municipal government organized, they negotiated and effected the transfer
of ownership of the entire Estate of Lian Colegio de San Jose (the original owner) to
the town people in 1933.

At present, the municipality is composed of nineteen (19) barangays, 57 sitios and

has an area of 10,655.3489 hectares. Its principal products are sugarcane, palay,
vegetable and other staple crops.

Like any other municipality of the province, Lian has its share of heroic leaders and
martyrs who sacrificed their lives for the cause of freedom. On January 16, 1945,
Japanese soldiers stationed in the so-called “Hacienda” (now St. Claire Academy),
and Lian Elementary School, zoned the whole town of Lian and executed 48 known
guerrillas.
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Two weeks later, January 31, 1945, the Americans liberated the town. Since then,
the people of Lian commemorate and celebrate this day in honor of the 48 martyrs
executed by the Japanese.

The town also celebrates its town fiesta every 24th day of June in honor of its Patron
Saint, Saint John the Baptist.

Another religious activity is the “Santuhan” where the life size image of St. John the
Baptist is brought to any house where there are birthday celebrations, weddings,
thanksgiving for good graces and blessings, barangay fiestas, recovery from
sickness, graduation from courses, etc. This practice is not only true in the poblacion
of the Municipality Lian, but also among the people of Western Batangas and of the
nearby provinces. People particularly consider this as a “Pangako at Pasasalamat’
for abundant harvest and good graces which they receive through the miraculous St.
John the Baptist.

The municipality was graced upon the beatification of its second Patron Saint, San
Lorenzo Ruiz, on October 18, 1987 in Rome by Pope John Paul II.

Lian, Batangas has a rich history that dates back to the Spanish colonial period.
Here is a brief overview of its historical background:

1.2. Spanish Colonial Era

Lian was founded as a Spanish pueblo (town) on February 25, 1581. It was
established by Spanish friars from the Franciscan order. During this time, the town
was primarily inhabited by indigenous Tagalogs. The Spanish influence can be seen
in the town's architecture, particularly in the San Juan Nepomuceno Church, which
was constructed in the 19th century. Here are some key points about its history as a
Spanish colony:

● Spanish Franciscan Missionaries: The Spanish colonization of the Philippines

involved the arrival of Catholic missionaries who sought to spread Christianity.
The Franciscan friars played a significant role in the establishment of Lian.
They built a church and conducted religious activities, which became the
center of the community.

● Conversion to Catholicism: As part of their mission, the friars worked to

convert the indigenous Tagalog people of Lian to Catholicism. They
introduced Christian teachings, built churches, and established religious
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practices. The Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint John the Baptist, constructed

during the Spanish colonial period, is a testament to this evangelization effort.

Volume III Chapter 1. History and General Overview of Lian

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● Spanish Influence and Architecture: The Spanish colonial period left a lasting
impact on Lian's architecture and cultural practices. Other structures, such as
ancestral houses, may also exhibit Spanish architectural elements.

● Socio-economic Life: Under Spanish rule, Lian's economy was predominantly

agricultural. The introduction of Spanish crops, farming techniques, and
livestock significantly influenced local agricultural practices. The locals grew
crops such as rice, corn, sugarcane, and coffee for sustenance and trade.

1.3 Agricultural Heritage

Lian's fertile lands and favourable climate made it suitable for agricultural activities.
The town became known for its cultivation of crops such as rice, corn, sugarcane,
and coffee. Lian also had a thriving fishing industry due to its coastal location. Here
are some key aspects of Lian's agricultural heritage:

● Fertile Lands: Lian is blessed with fertile lands that are conducive to
agriculture. The municipality is situated in a coastal area with plains and
rolling hills, providing a diverse landscape for farming. The soil quality and
favourable climate have allowed for the cultivation of various crops.

● Rice Cultivation: Rice is a staple crop in Lian, as it is in many parts of the

Philippines. The locals engage in both rain-fed and irrigated rice farming.
Farmers employ traditional methods of cultivation, including planting rice
seedlings in paddy fields and irrigating the fields using water from nearby
rivers or irrigation systems.

● Sugar: Apart from rice, sugar is another major crop cultivated in the Lian.

● Livestock and Poultry Farming: Lian's agricultural activities also encompass

livestock and poultry farming. Farmers raise animals such as cows, carabaos
(water buffaloes), goats, pigs, and poultry for meat, dairy, and egg production.
These animals contribute to the local food supply and provide additional
income opportunities for farmers.

● Fishing Industry: Given its coastal location, Lian has a thriving fishing industry.
The abundant marine resources in the area support the livelihoods of many
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local fishermen. They engage in both traditional fishing methods, such as net

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fishing and hook and line fishing, as well as commercial fishing using larger
vessels.

1.4 Philippine Revolution and World War II

Lian played a role in the Philippine Revolution against Spanish rule. In 1896, the
revolutionary forces led by General Emilio Aguinaldo passed through the town on
their way to the province of Batangas. During World War II, Lian, like many other
areas in the Philippines, was occupied by Japanese forces.

1.4.1 Philippine Revolution (1896-1898):

● Revolutionary Activity: During the Philippine Revolution against Spanish

colonial rule, Lian played a role as a strategic location for revolutionary forces.
General Emilio Aguinaldo, a key figure in the revolution and later the first
President of the Philippines, led the Katipunan forces in Batangas. Lian
served as a route for revolutionary forces moving through the province.

● Aguinaldo's Passage: General Emilio Aguinaldo and his troops passed

through Lian on their way to various revolutionary activities in the province of
Batangas. This movement aimed to gather support, recruit additional fighters,
and coordinate resistance against Spanish forces.

● Resistance against Spanish Rule: Lian locals actively participated in the

revolution, joining the ranks of the Katipunan and engaging in guerrilla warfare
against the Spanish colonizers. They fought for independence, freedom, and
the establishment of a sovereign Filipino nation.

1.4.2 World War II (1941-1945):

● Japanese Occupation: During World War II, Lian, like many other parts of the
Philippines, fell under Japanese occupation. Japanese forces established
control over the municipality, which had both military and economic
implications for the local population.

● Resistance Movements: Despite the occupation, some brave individuals and

groups formed resistance movements in Lian. They engaged in underground
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activities, gathering intelligence, providing support to guerrilla fighters, and

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conducting sabotage operations against Japanese forces.

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● Guerrilla Warfare: Lian served as a base for guerrilla fighters who waged a
resistance campaign against the Japanese occupiers. These guerrilla groups,
often composed of local residents, conducted hit-and-run attacks, disrupted
enemy supply lines, and provided valuable assistance to the overall war effort.

● Liberation and Reconstruction: Lian was eventually liberated from Japanese

control by American and Filipino forces in 1945. The town, like other areas
affected by the war, had to rebuild and recover from the damages caused by
the conflict.

1.5 Development and Tourism

Over the years, Lian has experienced growth and development. Its picturesque
beaches, such as Matabungkay Beach, attracted tourists and helped boost the local
economy. The municipality continues to focus on tourism as a key industry,
showcasing its natural attractions and cultural heritage. Here are some key points
about the development and tourism of Lian:

● Natural Attractions: Lian is known for its picturesque coastal areas and natural
attractions. Matabungkay Beach is a popular tourist destination, offering white
sand, clear waters, and opportunities for various water sports activities such
as swimming, snorkelling, and kayaking. The scenic beauty of the beach
draws both local and foreign tourists.

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Figure 1-1: Matabungkay Beach in Lian, Batangas

● Beach Resorts: Lian is home to several beach resorts that cater to tourists
seeking relaxation and recreation. These resorts offer accommodation
options, dining facilities, and amenities such as pools, water sports
equipment, and spa services. They provide a range of experiences for
visitors, from family vacations to romantic getaways.

● Scuba Diving and Snorkelling: The coastal waters of Lian are also known for
their rich marine biodiversity. Diving and snorkelling enthusiasts can explore
coral reefs, vibrant marine life, and underwater caves in the vicinity. These
activities attract nature lovers and adventure seekers to Lian.

● Cultural Heritage: Lian showcases its cultural heritage through various

attractions. The St. John the Baptist Church, a Spanish colonial-era church,
stands as a historical landmark and draws visitors interested in architecture
and religious history. The Lian Museum exhibits artifacts, relics, and cultural
displays that highlight the town's heritage and traditions.

Figure 1-2: Archdiocesan Shrine of Saint John the Baptist in Lian, Batangas
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● Economic Impact: The development of tourism in Lian has brought economic

benefits to the municipality. It has created employment opportunities in the
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hospitality and tourism sectors, supporting the livelihoods of local residents.

The influx of tourists also contributes to the local economy through spending
on accommodations, dining, transportation, and other tourist-related services.

● Infrastructure and Services: To support tourism development, Lian has

invested in infrastructure and services. This includes the improvement of
roads, transportation networks, and utilities to enhance accessibility for
visitors. The municipality has also prioritized the provision of tourist
information centers, safety measures, and environmental preservation
initiatives.

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