The Battle of Tres de Abril, Cebuano Patriotism and Will

It was April 3, 1898—a palm sunday. A month after the Revolt of Cebu, Cebuano Katipuneros launched the attack a week earlier than planned. About 5000 strong-willed Cebuanos who are ready to give their life for freedom.

The Katipuneros was led by Pantaleon Villegas, more commonly known as Leon Kilat to defeat the oppressive Spanish regime.

Leon Kilat and the Katipuneros stormed the Spanish civil guards and forced them to retreat to Fort San Pedro. The Katipuneros was successful in controlling Cebu but Maria Cristina, a gunboat of the Spanish army open fired pushing back the rebels and force them to retreat.

A few days later 500 Spanish reinforcements came and continued their pursuit of the Katipunan up to the mountain areas of Cebu.

The conclusion of the battle also led to Leon Kilat’s death after he was said to have been killed by his own aid inside his camp. The rebels were forced to leave Cebu a few weeks after he died.

However, some of Leon Kilat’s generals captured Toledo and Balamban towns and some provinces in Cebu.

Today we celebrate the 121st Battle of Tres de Abril commemorating the heroics of the brave Cebuano heroes and heroines that fought for our freedom that we are enjoying today.