Gabriela Silang Monument in Makati

Located hundred meters away from the Greenbelt 4 in Makati, where the Sto Niño de Paz is situated, lays the Gabriela Silang Monument. This monument was created by Jose M. Mendoza in 1971 in honor of Gabriela Silang, the first Filipina to lead a revolt against Spain. Gabriela Silang was born in Barangay Caniogan , Santa, Ilocos Sur on March 19, 1731. After the murder of her husband, Diego Silang, she led his troops in a policy of harassment that earned her the title of ‘Generala’. Outnumbered, she fled to the mountains where she was captured, and after a summary trial, hanged publicly in Vigan on September 29, 1763.

María Josefa Gabriela Cariño Silang prior to meeting Diego Silang was adopted by a rich businessman who later married her at the age of 20. The businessman left her when she was 23 years old. She married Diego Silang, the 27 year old Ilocano insurgent leader in 1957. Diego Silang was assassinated on May 28, 1763 by order of royal and church authorities in Manila. After her husband’s death, she went to Abra Mountains to form a headquarters, establish her troops and rally the Tingguian community to fight. They went down from the mountains going to Vigan on September 10, 1763 but the troops who maintained and guarded the fortified place were ready. They ambushed her and rout her forces. Many were killed during the battle while she escaped together with her uncle Nicolas and seven others. They were caught on September 29, 1763 and hanged in Vigan’s plaza, with Gabriela Silang being the last to be choked.

Gabriela Silang Statue

Gabriela Silang Monument in Makati

The Gabriela Silang Monument stands as a reminder to all Filipinos that in everyone’s heart there is a hero inside. If you’re visiting Makati in the Philippines, be sure to add the Gabriela Silang Monument to your itinerary and renew the hero in you.

About the author

Mark Anthony Maranga is an Educator-Parent to his 3 Homeschooling Kids. He sells Ice Cream and Balloons in Mandaue City, Cebu. Exploring the Philippines tourist attractions together with his family is his passion; they are learning without borders.