Travelogue#9: Plaza Libertad - historical Christmas Day

Among all the plazas that I've been to in Iloilo, the most historical of them all would be Plaza Libertad. This is where Spain surrendered Iloilo, its last capital in the Philippines, on December 25,1898. The recipient of this surrender was the brave revolutionary General Martin Teofilo Delgado, leader of the Western Visayas resistance force against the Spaniards.

Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City

Rizal's statue stands as the focal point of this plaza with one arm reaching out while the other holds a rolled scroll. 

The side of its base is en-scripted with a Spanish excerpt from his famous novel "Noli Me Tangere" (Touch Me Not).

It says:

"Vosotros los que llequeis a ver la luz del dia no olvideis a los que cayeron durante la noche"

 which translates to -->

"You who see the light of day, must not forget those who fell during the night"

I think this is what he was trying to say to us when we went there. To remember and keep remembering those who fought hard for my / our freedom. To guard this gift of freedom and to appreciate life more.

Noli Me Tangere, 1886 

Across the Plaza is the Masonic Temple building, an example of World Neoclassical architecture, it was an architecture style made famous in the Philippines by the Americans.If you look at it from Rizal's statue, you'd think that this is what he is pointing at. ^_^

Masonic Temple building, Iloilo City

Another monument just a couple steps away from Rizal's statue shows three fists breaking through a marble tablet. It was placed here in 2004 for the heroes and martyrs who struggled (and continue to struggle) for the Filipino people.

Plaza Libertad, Iloilo City

In terms of appearance, Plaza Libertad is just like any average plaza in Iloilo where people can gather, sit and talk. It is much cleaner and greener (with the Narra and Molave trees around) compared to Tigbauan or Jaro.  But, I think what separate it from the other plazas and made the visit more meaningful for me is knowing that this is where Spain finally gave up its claim in the Philippines. And, the experience gave me more than shade and rest when I sat in its benches. I believe it re-assured me that I am truly a free Filipino and I have the power to choose freely where I want my life to go. ^_^

How we got there:
From Museo Iloilo or general Luna Street going to Museo Iloilo, ride a City proper jeepney, ask the driver to drop you off at Plaza Libertad. It's just a couple of steps from San Jose church (which is also worthwhile to visit). ^_^