The hero of the Battle of Tirad Pass was General Gregorio del Pilar.
Who Was the Hero of the Battle of Tirad Pass?
The hero of the famed Battle of Tirad Pass, a significant engagement during the Philippine-American War, was General Gregorio del Pilar. This young and courageous general led a small contingent of Filipino soldiers in a heroic last stand against overwhelming American forces.
The Battle of Tirad Pass: A Glimpse
The Battle of Tirad Pass, often regarded as the "Thermopylae of the Philippines," took place on December 2, 1899, in Tirad Pass, Ilocos Sur. It was a crucial rear-guard action aimed at allowing Philippine President Emilio Aguinaldo and his party to escape American pursuit.
Here's a quick overview of the battle:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| Date | December 2, 1899 |
| Location | Tirad Pass, Ilocos Sur, Philippines |
| Filipino Commander | General Gregorio del Pilar |
| Filipino Forces | Approximately 60 men (rear guard) |
| Objective | Delay American forces to allow President Aguinaldo's escape |
| Outcome | Decisive American victory; Filipino forces annihilated but achieved their objective of delaying the enemy |
Gregorio del Pilar's Heroic Stand
General Gregorio del Pilar, often referred to as the "Boy General" due to his youth, commanded the 60-man Filipino rear guard. His mission was to hold the strategic Tirad Pass against the advancing American forces of the 33rd Infantry Regiment, led by Major Peyton C. March, for as long as possible. Despite being severely outnumbered and outgunned, Del Pilar and his men strategically positioned themselves, utilizing the mountainous terrain to their advantage.
Their bravery allowed President Aguinaldo to evade capture and continue his retreat. General del Pilar himself was among the last to fall, succumbing to a bullet wound during the intense fighting. His sacrifice and the valiant stand of his men are etched into Philippine history as a testament to their unwavering commitment to freedom.
Legacy of Heroism
General Gregorio del Pilar's actions at Tirad Pass solidified his place as a national hero. His leadership, self-sacrifice, and dedication to the cause of Philippine independence serve as an enduring symbol of courage. The Battle of Tirad Pass underscores the early resistance faced by the American government during its occupation of the Philippines and highlights the indomitable spirit of the Filipino people in defending their sovereignty.
