 |
| (Image Source: De La Salle Lipa) |
On June 18, 2024, Lipa City bore witness to an event of monumental significance with the grand unveiling of “Memoirs Of A Prisoner Of The Tagalogs". This profound work, translated from the original Spanish “Recuerdos de un Prisionero de los Tagalogs” by Santos Rubiano Herrera, was celebrated in a ceremonious book launch at the De La Salle Lipa (DLSL) e-Library. The translation was meticulously executed by Renz Marion D. Katigbak, a dedicated Lasallian, ardent Philippine history enthusiast, and meticulous family history researcher, under the distinguished guidance of DLSL Vice-Chancellor for Research and Innovations Bro. Manuel “Mawel” Pajarillo FSC, a scholar of Dogmatic Theology from the renowned Katholieke Universiteit te Leuven in Belgium and a member of the De La Salle Brothers.
The translated memoirs offer an invaluable perspective on the siege of Lipa, chronicled through the eyes of the conqueror, and stand as a testament to the city’s storied past. The publication was realized through the collaboration of the Center for Philippine Studies, the Research Institute for Culture and Language at the Polytechnic University of the Philippines, and the Center for Batangas Studies at De La Salle Lipa. The illustrious launch event was honored by the presence of eminent figures in Philippine history and tourism alongside the descendants of Lipeño revolutionary leaders Col. Gregorio Katigbak, Col. Bernardo Solis, Col. Luis Luna, and Lt. Col. Cipriano Kalaw. This gathering not only celebrated a pivotal literary accomplishment but also cemented a legacy that will enlighten future generations on an important era of Lipa's history.
Who Is Dr. Santos Rubiano Herrera?
Dr. Santos Rubiano Herrera was a Spanish physician and scholar. In 1896, he joined the Spanish Military Corps as a second medical officer. While serving with the 14th Light Infantry Battalion in June 1898, he was taken prisoner of war, along with 400 Spanish soldiers, by the Filipino revolutionary army in Lipa and released in September 1899. His memoir, entitled "Recuerdos de un Prisionero de los Tagalogs", published in four issues of the Spanish magazine "Nuestro Tiempo," chronicles his experiences as a prisoner during the Philippine Revolution, and was published between 1907 and 1908.
The Launch Of "Memoirs Of A Prisoner Of The Tagalogs"
The program commenced with a warm welcome from DLSL Vice President for Administration Bro. Cyril “Kino” Escolano FSC, setting the stage for Center for Batangas Studies Coordinator Dr. Renato G. Maligaya to introduce the authors. Moreover, Dr. Francis M. Navarro, expressing his delight in the release of the book, highlighted the book’s role in resurrecting forgotten aspects of the past, emphasizing its significance in understanding the complexities of historical narratives. Also present at the event were Batangas Provincial Tourism and Cultural Affairs Officer Dr. Katrin Erika A. Buted, PUP Center for Philippine Studies Chief Jomar G. Adaya, and De La Salle Brothers Philippines Vocations Ministry Office Director Bro. Jeanoel Endaya FSC. Katigbak, a key figure in the translation project, shared how this project holds a special place in his heart, as it involves a significant chapter in Lipa City’s history, particularly related to his family ancestry. Meanwhile, Bro. Pajarillo reflected on the ethical and humane treatment of adversaries during the Lipa Revolt, stressing the importance of historical accuracy and empathy in retelling stories of conflict and resilience. He finished his speech by encouraging the attendees to read the book and left them with a quote from Dr. Jose Rizal: “What is the use of independence if the slaves of today will be the tyrants of tomorrow?” The program concluded with GMA Integrated News and Public Affairs pillar and award-winning veteran broadcast journalist and documentarist Howie Severino playing a rap song with lyrics based on the book and the valor of the Batangueños. Inspired by his discovery of Rubiano Herrera’s memoirs, Severino was one of the few people who ignited the effort to realize the English translation of the memoirs.
The launch of “Memoirs Of A Prisoner Of The Tagalogs” underscores De La Salle Lipa's unwavering commitment to promoting and preserving Batangas culture and heritage through the DLSL Center for Batangas Studies. By bringing to light significant historical accounts and fostering scholarly collaboration, DLSL aims to deepen the understanding of the region's rich history and cultural legacy. As history unfolds through these pages, the initiative reflects the institution’s goal of not only educating its students but also enriching the community’s appreciation of their collective past, thereby ensuring that the legacy of Batangas is celebrated and remembered for generations to come.
(With words by Cristina Alfareta Larombi, De La Salle Lipa)
