|
 According
to the historians, Lapu-Lapu was born and lived in the
island of Mactan. He was the son of the couple Kusgano
and Inday Puti. He was the first Filipino Hero.
Lapulapu is considered one of the greatest figures of
ancient Philippine history.
Lapu-Lapu was handsome, brave and strong. He won over
his rivals to marry Princess Bulakna, daughter of Datu
Sabtano. They had a son named Sawili.
When Princess Bulakna's father died, Lapu-Lapu became
the chief of their tribe. He had more than a thousand
and five hundred soldiers who obeyed him faithfully.
When Magellan came to the Philippines he persuaded Raja
Humabon, King Zula and other leaders to be allies of
Spain.
However, Lapu-Lapu refused to recognize the Spanish
authority. He even encouraged fellow leaders not to make
friends with the foreigners. |
|
Magellan got angry. He decided to bring more than 60 of
his men to teach Lapu-Lapu a lesson. One day in April
1521, Magellan and his Filipino allies in Mactan
attacked Lapu-Lapu. But the latter was prepared.
Lapu-Lapu armed his followers with bows and arrows with
poison. Their spears were made of steel pointed at the
tip. When Magellan's party arrived at Mactan, a
ferocious battle ensued. Lapu-Lapu was said to have
killed Magellan in this encounter.
Lapu-Lapu remained leader of Mactan until his death. His
bravery frightened his enemies and earned the respect of
his fellowmen. |
