Gilbert H.

Mabborang BSCE- 1-C

Topic: The Cry of Pugadlawin/ Balintawak

The First Cry in Pugadlawin/ Balintawak: Unveiling the Catalyst of Philippine

Revolution

I. Introduction

The First Cry in Balintawak/ Pugadlawin, a pivotal event in Philippine history, represents

the clarion call for independence from Spanish colonial rule. However, the precise location and

date of this event remain subjects of considerable historical debate. This case analysis embarks

on a comprehensive examination, aiming to reconcile conflicting accounts and ascertain the

authentic site and date of the cry of Pugadlawin..

II. Background

In 1521, the Philippines entered a new chapter when Ferdinand Magellan, under the

employ of Spain, first set foot on its shores. This event signaled the commencement of an era

spanning over three centuries, characterized by Spanish dominance, enforced labor, cultural

assimilation, and economic exploitation. As the 19th century unfurled, the Philippines found

itself under the weight of stringent Spanish governance. Burdensome tributes and obligatory

labor exerted immense pressure on the socio-economic framework, sowing seeds of

discontent among the populace. A burgeoning intellectual class, influenced by liberal ideals

emanating from Europe, began advocating for transformative reforms.

Against this backdrop, the Katipunan emerged in 1892, a undercover society with a

singular mission: to liberate the Philippines from Spanish subjugation. Orchestrated by Andres
Bonifacio and a select cadre of like-minded visionaries, their covert efforts sought to galvanize

Filipinos against the yoke of Spanish rule. The rapid expansion of the Katipunan brought internal

divisions to the fore. The Tejeros Convention of 1897, convened to establish a revolutionary

government, laid bare ideological splits, precipitating a power struggle between Bonifacio and

Emilio Aguinaldo. This discord would wield profound ramifications on the course of the

revolution.

August 23, 1896, etched an indelible mark in Philippine history. Gathered at Pugadlawin

in Quezon City, Bonifacio and his compatriots embarked on a symbolic act of defiance. The

tearing of a cedula, close to a residence certificate, reverberated as the “First Cry,” resonating as

a clarion call for revolution.

III. Conflicting Accounts and Divergent Sources

A. Pugadlawin as the Site

This approach is built on the careful examination of primary materials including true

documents, private correspondence, and memoirs. A well-known Katipunan member and

eyewitness to the events, Guillermo Masangkay delivers a vivid first-person account of the

Pugadlawin Uprising. Masangkay supports the commonly acknowledged location of

Pugadlawin/ Balintawak as the scene of the revolt in his memoirs. His in-depth recollections are

a priceless monument to the place’s historical accuracy.

Secondary sources cover a wider range of historical documents and scholarly research in

addition to primary sources. A fellow Katipunan member and Masangkay’s colleague, Pio

Valenzuela, wrote insightful recollections of the revolutionary era. The writings of Valenzuela
provide more proof that Pugad Lawin really was the scene of the insurrection. His perceptions

add to the complete comprehension

B. Alternative Theories

While the widely accepted belief is that the First Cry happened in Pugadlawin on August

23, 1896. It is important to consider alternate viewpoints even though the conventional opinion

claims that the First Cry took place on August 23, 1896, in Pugadlawin (modern day Balintawak,

Quezon City). Some historians support alternate sites, such Tambobong near Manila, citing

reliable materials and accounts that contradict the mainstream theory. Furthermore, critic contend

that even primary sources like Pio Valenzuela and Guillermo Masangkay may have limitations or

biases in their memories, thereby bringing subjectivity into the research. Finding the precise

uncertainty in site and date of the First Cry is challenging because of in historical records,

discrepancies in documentation, and doubts about place names. Furthermore, since scholarly

research increasingly relies on secondary sources, there is a legitimate worry that these sources

may contain biases or misinterpretations.how the authors’ viewpoints and objectives may affect

historical records and scholarly study. Finally, others contend that urban growth and land use

changes may have changed the physical qualities of the area, adding another level of complexity

to this historical investigation, taking into account the passage of time and probable changes in

territorial boundaries and terrain. These counterarguments provide insightful viewpoints that

highlight the difficulty of conclusively determining the location and timing of this crucial event

in Philippine history.

IV. Findings
 Following a thorough investigation, it is now largely accepted that the First Cry occurred

on August 23, 1896, in Pugadlawin (modern day Balintawak, Quezon City). Recent study results,

which have provided new insight into the event’s location and date, support this updated

conclusion. Reputable historians and academics with expertise in Philippine history have

confirmed these results, which have been included into a larger understanding of this crucial

period in the country’s quest for independence.

V. Conclusion

The First Cry in Pugadlawin, a pivotal event in Philippine history, is now confirmed to be

on August 23, 1896. This event, which encapsulates the unyielding spirit of the Filipino people

against oppressive colonialism, is an enduring symbol of bravery and defiance. The sacrifices of

figures like Guillermo Masangkay, Pio Valenzuela, and Santiago Alvarez are commemorate

through their accounts and the collective memory of a grateful nation. The event serves as a

testament to the Katipuneros’ indomitable will, who risked everything for the vision of a free and

sovereign Philippines. Their determination inspires generations to uphold values of liberty,

patriotism, and selfless service. Reflecting on the Cry on Pugadlawin reminds us of the

importance of preserving our national heritage and honoring the sacrifices of those who paved

the way for our independence. In commemorating the Pugadlawin Uprising, we pay tribute to the

legacy of the Katipuneros, recognizing their collective call for freedom and urging us to

safeguard the liberties they fought for. This event remains an indelible marker in the narrative of

Philippine independence, guiding a nation proud of its history and poised for a future defined by

the same spirit of courage and determination.