New book brings Silang’s revolutionary into national narrative

General Vito Belarmino, a revolutionary leader and local hero of Silang, Cavite, is brought into clearer historical view through a new publication that chronicles his life, service and enduring legacy.

Published by Herencia de Silan Publications, Heneral Vito Belarmino: Ang Dakilang Anak ng Silang traces Belarmino’s heroism during the Philippine Revolution against Spain and the Philippine-American War.

Born in 1857, Belarmino remains relatively unknown outside his hometown despite the important roles he played in the struggle for Philippine independence.

The book was written mainly by scholars and educators from Silang, including Teresita P. Unabia, Jesus A. Medina, Daniel M. Anciano, Aidel Paul G. Belamide, Phillip L. Medina, Bernard A. Salazar, Leonilo B. Batino and Renzelle P. Cortez.

The publication project received support from the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Museo ni Emilio Aguinaldo, Cavite Studies Center, Silang Historical Society and the local government of Silang.

Beyond presenting Belarmino’s biography and ancestry, the book examines his military exploits, particularly his significant assignment in the Bicol Region. It also features material evidence and documentary sources related to his heroism.

Other chapters discuss Silang before the outbreak of the Revolution in 1896, the town’s defense in 1897, and the history of the Gen. Vito L. Belarmino Integrated National High School, named in his honor.

Written in an accessible style, the book demonstrates how collective scholarship and community collaboration can recover overlooked histories and bring deserving historical figures into the national consciousness.

A true son of Silang, Belarmino held several local positions in his youth before joining the revolutionary movement under the nom de guerre “Walang Gulat.” He fought Spanish forces in Talisay, Batangas; Naic, Cavite; and Montalban, in present-day Rizal Province.

He was a signatory to the Constitution of Biak-na-Bato in 1897 and represented Batanes at the Malolos Congress in 1898.

That same year, President Emilio Aguinaldo appointed him commandant of the province of Albay. In Bicol, Belarmino later became military chief of the neighboring provinces of Camarines and Sorsogon.

He remained in the region during the Philippine-American War and led resistance efforts against American forces under Brigadier General William A. Kobbe in Albay from 1900 to 1901. Belarmino eventually surrendered to the Americans in 1901.

He died in 1933.

Today, Belarmino is commemorated in Silang through a monument and two historical markers, including one installed by the National Historical Commission of the Philippines in 2016.

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