The Alas Family wishes to greet both our patria grande Spain and our patria chica Filipinas, a very happy Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day!
This least-known diplomatic event is already on its 12th year. But did you know that it traces its roots to Baler in Aurora Province?
The Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day was first celebrated on 30 June 2003. This day commemorates the gallantry, courage, and loyalty of the last Spanish soldiers in our country who made a final stand in Baler, Tayabas (now part of Aurora province). From 1 July 1898 to 2 June 1899, these Spanish soldiers, who numbered less than 40, garrisoned themselves inside the town church without knowing that Spain had already lost Filipinas on 10 December 10 1898 (Treaty of Paris). Because of their display of courage, they earned the respect of President Emilio Aguinaldo. So instead of imprisoning or executing them, the Spaniards were sent them back to Spain (click here for more info).
The Philippine-Spanish Friendship Day was first celebrated on 30 June 2003. This day commemorates the gallantry, courage, and loyalty of the last Spanish soldiers in our country who made a final stand in Baler, Tayabas (now part of Aurora province). From 1 July 1898 to 2 June 1899, these Spanish soldiers, who numbered less than 40, garrisoned themselves inside the town church without knowing that Spain had already lost Filipinas on 10 December 10 1898 (Treaty of Paris). Because of their display of courage, they earned the respect of President Emilio Aguinaldo. So instead of imprisoning or executing them, the Spaniards were sent them back to Spain (click here for more info).
Hopefully next year, we would be able to visit Baler, famous not only in the annals of Filhispanic history but also reputed to be the "Surfing Capital of the Philippines".
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| Photo courtesy of Travel Up. |
¡Feliz Día de la Amistad Hispanofilipina!
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