Datu Taupan

DATU TAUPAN

(Balanguigui, c. 1848)

Also known as Panglima Taupan, he was the leader of the Sama Balanguigui of Zamboanga, Basilan and Tonquil islands. He fought for the independence of his people against Spanish incursions and launched raids against Spanish settlements. In 1848, Spanish forces using modern gunboats finally took Balanguigui Island after a fierce battle. Datu Taupan and his followers were captured and were relocated to Isabela province in Northern Luzon.

* Photos taken by GBJ at the Luneta (Rizal Park), Manila, on the morning of December 30, 2022 (Rizal Day).