|
 Gregorio
del Pilar was born in Bulakan, Bulakan on November 14,
1875. The Hero of the Tirad Pass was the son of Don
Fernando H. del Pilar and Felipa Sempio. Gregorio del
Pilar was the youngest and the most picturesque general
in the Philippine Revolutionary Forces during the
Philippine Revolution and the Philippine-American War.
He studied under the tutelage of Maestro Monico. He also
studied at the school of Pedro Serrano Laktaw. He went
to Ateneo de Manila University after finishing his
secondary education where he graduated with a Bachelor
of Arts degree.
Gregorio came from a wealthy family but his eyes were
opened from the injustices around him. Added to this
were the nationalistic books and newspapers sent to him
by his cousin Marcelo.
He was only 19 years old when he joined the Katipunan.
He became a leader of the rebellion despite his young
age because of his exceptional ability and bravery.
Soon, he was promoted to colonel status. At age 22, he
was already a brigadier general.
Gregorio and his men made an assault in the town of
Bulakan to get rid of the Americans. They followed it
with an attack in Quingwa (now Plaridel). They were able
to win over the Americans notwithstanding their small
number. |
|
The most colorful part of his life took place in Tirad
Pass. Tirad Pass was the passageway to Aguinaldo's
hideout. Gregorio's group was assigned to defend it.
He showed his fearless character. In spite of handful
followers, only 60 men. They defended Tirad Pass against
the Americans contingent composed of more than 400
soldiers.
A Filipino traitor showed the way to the location of the
young general. The Americans gunned him down to his
death. The date was December 2, 1899. |
