John Edison V.

Brillo
BSABE 2-1

1. Discuss the political and social relevance of the following: (30)

1.1 EDSA 1 & 2

The People Power Revolution was a dubious mimicry of social revolution in that it did not lead
to the redistribution of social and political power from the ruling elites to the underclass of
Philippine society. Thus, in the aftermath of Edsa 1 and 2, there is nothing to show that the
succeeding administrations have reduced the abominable poverty in the Philippines.
This explains why the Filipino masses failed to find resonance with the ruling elites in their
euphoria over the overthrow of the dictatorship during Edsa 1. The Edsa revolution was a
Manila-centered movement in which the people in the provinces had scant participation. With
this framework, it will be illuminating to examine the dynamics of the interventions of the
generals and the clergy in the People Power Revolution.

1.2 La Solidaridad
The aims, therefore, of La Solidaridad are described as to collect, to gather, libertarian
ideas which are manifested daily in the field of politics, science, art, literature, commerce,
agriculture, and industry. We shall also discuss all problems relating to the general interest of
the nation and seek solutions to those problems in high-level and democratic manner. About
the Philippines, since she needs the most help, not being represented in the Cortes, we shall
pay particular attention to the defense of her democratic rights, the accomplishment of which is
our patriotic duty.
That nation of eight million souls should not, must not be the exclusive preserve of theocracy
and traditionalism.
The late 19th-century ideals and social conventions of the Filipino people were greatly
influenced by La Solidaridad. It encouraged critical thinking, educated readers to liberal
ideas, supported reforms, championed nationalism, and gave women more authority.

1.3 Katipunan or KKK

The Katipunan had three goals as a brotherhood: political, moral, and civic. They
argued that armed conflict should be used to win independence from Spain. Additionally,
they believed it was their duty to impart morals, hygiene, and good manners to the
oppressed and poor.
Filipinos who were interested in ending Spanish rule established a group in 1892 that
adhered to Masonic rites and ideals to plan terrorist assassinations and armed resistance in
John Edison V. Brillo
BSABE 2-1

the strictest of secrecy. It functioned as a stand-in for the government of the

Philippines, replete with a president and cabinet.
The Katipunan, a secret organization commanded by Andrés Bonifacio, worked to
establish an independent Philippines. When the organization started to revolt in response to
the Spanish execution of its leaders and priests, it was not militarily equipped to confront
Spain.

2. What were the reasons why the early revolts and revolutions failed? Give
examples. (20)
Most of these revolts failed because most of the local population sided up with the well-
armed colonial government, and to fight with Spanish as foot soldiers to put down the revolts.
One of the major reasons behind this is: they were not united.

The Philippines is an archipelago, and its islands are scattered with considerable
distance from one another, and at that time, infrastructure, transportation, and communication
were not what you’d call advanced. Also, the colonizers took great care to suppress the
rebellions/revolts, which was easy for them since they had more money, resources, and
weapons.

An example of this is the Propaganda Movement. This was the very first wide-scale
revolt against the Spaniards led by Dr. Jose Rizal, Graciano Lopez Jaena, and Marcelo H. Del
Pilar. The propagandists used their pens to express their sentiments and desires for the
independence of the Philippines (or not really independence; what they did advocate for to
make the country a province of Spain). However, it easily failed because of the rivalry between
Rizal and del Pilar (they disagreed with each other’s editorial policies and political beliefs),
which created two factions within the group. Also, the movement was greatly affected by the
execution of Jose Rizal in Bagumbayan and the death of Lopez-Jaena and del Pilar.

3. What were the preparations made by Andres Bonifacio for the revolution of
1896? (20)
After the Spanish detained Rizal in July 1892, Bonifacio concluded that revolution was
the only way for the Philippines to gain freedom. On July 7, he established the secret society
known as the Katipunan, which was open to both peasants and members of the middle class,
and which used Masonic rites to project a sense of sacred mystery. It established mutual help
societies and provided education for the underprivileged to blend in with the neighborhood.
The Katipunan was active at the federal, state, and local levels by 1896, when it had over 30,000
members.
John Edison V. Brillo
BSABE 2-1

On August 23, 1896, Bonifacio declared Filipino independence following Rizal's

execution. This time, the Spaniards attacked him, causing him to flee to the Marikina
Mountains, while other forces under the command of Emilio Aguinaldo were more successful
and took possession of some towns. When Bonifacio attempted to control him, Aguinaldo
ordered his arrest and filed treason and sedition charges against him. By his adversaries, he
was tried, found guilty, and put to death on May 10, 1897. He is revered as a national hero
today.