By Rudy Arizala
Ist Tale: General Antonio Luna
General Luna died (assassinated) at age 32 . He courted Nellie Boustead with whom Rizal was also in love. He and Antonio Luna almost went to a duel. But did not push through because Luna apologized to Rizal for remarks against Nellie.
Antonio Luna loved his country but has fiery temper, a disciplinarian. He was a good tactician having studied chemistry aside from pharmacy. He merited his military promotions due to his successful battles against American forces. Luna, despite his fiery temper, was generally acknowledged a national or authentic hero who loved his country above all.
2nd Tale: “Boy General” Gregório del Pilar
General Del Pilar died at Tirad Pass at age 24. An enemy bullet pierced through his neck while defending Tirad Pass as rearguard of General President Emilio Aguinaldo retreating forces to the North. Gregório del Pilar allegedly had half a dozen girls. Among them Neneng Rodrigo; Poleng Leyba; Felicidad Aguinaldo, sister of General Emilio Aguinaldo; Remedios Nable José. According to story, del Pilar almost got married to a certain Dolores but did not happen due to sudden military movement to defend with his 60 choiced soldiers atTirad Pass. Some consider him not a soldier but a villain. Allegedly a “lover boy” who got his military promotions due to his charm and connections with high authorities. The American General who led the assault at Tirad Pass reportedly returned an embroidered handkerchief, as well as a diary, a medal, and other personal belongings of Gregorio del Pilar to Dolores. Later, Dolores simply disappeared.
Is the boy general or “Goyong,” a hero or a villain? It may be relevant to mention in this connection in an article of mine which was published in a Sunday magazine of a Philippine newspaper “Left Alone in His Glory,” I quoted what Goyong wrote in his diary upon receipt of General Emilio Aguinaldo’s order to defend Tirad Pass, to wit: “The General has given me a platoon of available men and has ordered me to defend this Pass. I am aware what a difficult task has been given me. Nevertheless, I feel that this is the most glorious moment of my life. I am doing everything for my beloved country. There is no greater sacrifice”.
Methinks personally, the “boy general” is also among our heroes. He stood his ground despite insurmountable odds.
