MANILA — On this day in Philippine history, November 18, 1848, marked the birth of a formidable figure, Trinidad Tecson, hailed as the “Mother of Biak-na-Bato,” in San Miguel de Mayumo, Bulacan.

Trinidad Tecson, known for her pivotal role in the Philippine Revolution, was born on November 18, 1848, in San Miguel de Mayumo, Bulacan.

At the age of 47, she joined the Katipunan women’s chapter in 1895, distinguishing herself as one of the few revolutionary women who actively engaged in combat alongside men, all striving for the nation’s liberation from Spanish colonial rule.

Engaging in a total of 12 fierce battles in Bulacan, including the historic Battle of Biak-na-Bato, Tecson displayed unwavering courage, often returning to the battlefield despite sustaining injuries.

Her dedication extended beyond fighting; during a period of firearm scarcity, Tecson, accompanied by three comrades, successfully overcame civil guards at the Caloocan courthouse, seizing their weapons. Subsequently, she led a group of five men to the San Isidro jail in Nueva Ecija, capturing seven more firearms after subduing the guards.

Drawing comparisons to “Tandang Sora” or Melchora Aquino, celebrated as the “Mother of the Katipunan” for her nurturing of wounded Katipuneros on the battlefield, Tecson’s role was crucial in the operations at Biak-na-Bato, which also served as General Emilio Aguinaldo’s headquarters. Aguinaldo himself bestowed upon Tecson the title “Mother of Biak-na-Bato.”

Acknowledged as the mother of the Philippine Red Cross, Tecson earned recognition for her nursing services to fellow Katipuneros. She continued her active participation during the Philippine-American War, joining the forces led by General Gregorio del Pilar. In the Malolos Republic, Tecson assumed the role of Commissary of War.

Trinidad Tecson passed away on January 28, 1928, at the age of 80, at the Philippine General Hospital. Her final resting place is the Mausoleum of the Veterans of the Revolution in Cementerio del Norte, or Manila North Cemetery.

Source: Philippine News Agency archives

(JR AMIGO/ai/mnm)