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Aguinaldo, Emilio: Magen Gunita - Himagsikan National Centennial 1998

Initial Assault on the Enemies

  • Date and Location: Morning of September 1, 1896, at the Headquarters at the convent in Cavite el Viejo.

  • Meeting with G. Jose Tagle:

    • The municipal captain of Imus arrives with approximately 100 soldiers seeking support to attack the enemies in Imus.

    • Aguinaldo agrees to the offensive, marking it as their first assault for the freedom of the nation.

  • Preparation:

    • Aguinaldo gathers 600 troops from Katipunan, comprising both members and non-members.

    • Addresses the troops highlighting their initial lack of discipline but emphasizes their willingness to fight, regardless of their rudimentary weapons (gulok and sibat).

    • Instructs the troops: "MANUNUBOK first before suddenly MANINI. SID."

  • Weapons Available:

    • Nine long guns and three Remington rifles captured from the Guardia Civil.

    • One borrowed bolt-action shotgun from the Municipal Captain of San Francisco de Malabon.

    • Accompanied by a morale-boosting band playing "Batalla de Jolo."

  • Progress Towards Imus:

    • Aguinaldo describes the joy of his troops and the spontaneous joining of over 2000 men as they pass bridges and buildings.

    • Little encouragement from locals enhances morale as they approach the town of Imus.

Encountering the Enemy

  • Enemy Reports:

    • Two individuals report that the friars and Guardia Civil have retreated to the convent and church tower in Imus.

    • Aguinaldo notes the importance of studying military strategy as they navigate this significant challenge.

  • Military Strategy Formation:

    • Troops divided into three groups:

    • Aguinaldo's group at the forefront (west side towards the convent).

    • Tagle's troops moving south.

    • Aguinaldo sends a secret signal: “First to arrive and assault the convent.”

    • To avoid being spotted by the enemy, music is halted, and they crawl closer to the enemy territory.

Assault on the Convent

  • Crawling Approach:

    • Signals to attack when close to the convent's door, which is still closed.

    • Uses equipment to break down doors.

  • Inside the Convent:

    • They find only a Filipino priest, Padre Buenaventura, who begs for mercy.

    • Aguinaldo assures him that they are not enemies and presents their motive of liberation.

  • Troop Rearrangement:

    • Aguinaldo reorganizes his troops to assault a large hacienda with strong defenses nearby.

  • Tactics Adopted:

    • Aguinaldo’s group creates chaos while the attackers strategically approach the hacienda walls.

    • They attempt to break down the entrance, facing heavy gunfire from the enemies which results in casualties among Aguinaldo's troops.

Strategic Adjustments and Decisions

  • Preparation for a Shift:

    • After realizing the gravity of their situation, Aguinaldo redirects troops to encircle the hacienda.

    • Plans to break through the hacienda's walls after scouting a weak point.

    • Awareness of the importance of discipline and unity among troops amidst chaos.

  • Gifts from the People:

    • Observing the generosity from the local populace, who offer food and support.

    • Aguinaldo remarks on the importance of these gestures, reflecting the common desire for freedom.

Continued Military Movement and Encounters

  • Post-Engagement Reflection:

    • Following the initial successes, Aguinaldo plans to attack other locations such as Cavite el Viejo and Binakayan for further strategic advantages against the remaining forces of the enemy.

  • Humanitarian Acts:

    • Notable mentions of aid from civilians, including providing rice to the injured soldiers.

    • Aguinaldo's heartfelt gratitude towards the locals, which fuels the morale of the troops as they march onward for their purpose.

Conclusion of Events in Imus

  • Victory and Politics:

    • After the capture of Imus, Aguinaldo calls for the election of a town president among the local leaders to establish local governance in line with the revolution's aims.

    • Calls upon Jose Tagle to take lead in the new authority structure as a mark of trust and unity among the initiated revolutionaries.

  • Public Response:

    • Celebratory reception from local townsfolk as Aguinaldo speaks of their triumph over oppression and the need for governance to continue the fight for independence against colonial rule.

  • Final Thoughts on Strategy and Unity:

    • Aguinaldo emphasizes unity among the revolutionaries and the importance of continuing the armed struggle as part of their identity and national mission.

  • Encouragement of Continued Support:

    • Acknowledges the invaluable aid of the citizenry in their struggle against the colonial forces.