Retrace Bonifacio's life in 16 easy steps

Published March 14, 2013 4:23pm

Filipinos can now relive the life and heroism of Supremo Andres Bonifacio in 16 steps, with a virtual pilgrimage to 16 important sites – all inside a mall.

This is part of the "Byaheng Bonifacio: Byaheng Bayani (Bonifacio, A Hero's Journey)" exhibit at the activity center of SM North EDSA's The Block in Quezon City.

"Byaheng Bonifacio: Byaheng Bayani," which ends on Nov. 30, 2013, is one of the year-long activities marking Bonifacio's 150th birth anniversary this year.

"The Cry of Pugad Lawin" at Bahay Toro, Quezon City. (Photo: courtesy of Dept. of Tourism)

The exhibit is organized by the Department of Tourism and National Historical Commission of the Philippines, and covers the 16 sites that are important in Bonifacio's life, including: his birthplace in Tondo in Manila to the Katipuneros' hideout in Rizal province, to his martyrdom in Cavite; the Katipuneros’ hideout in Pamitinan Cave in Rodriguez, Rizal ; the place of Bonifacio's execution and martyrdom in Maragondon, Cavite.

"It aims to renew the public’s interest in appreciating and taking pride of the history of these often forgotten, if not overlooked, sites which played an important role in the life of the Supremo, Katipunan, and Philippine Revolution of 1896," the DOT said.

The first 100 visitors, both local and foreign, who can complete the pilgrimage will get a token and a "Byaheng Bonifacio: Byaheng Bayani ng Bayan" certificate.

NHCP chairperson Dr. Maria Serena Diokno voiced hopes "Byaheng Bonifacio" will help Filipinos "realize the relevance of Bonifacio’s life, works, and achievements in their daily lives."

“Part of who we are today and what we feel today, we owe much to our heroic forebears who made the ultimate sacrifice in the name of freedom,” Tourism Secretary Jimenez added. “It is, therefore, the Department’s mandate to preserve our rich colonial history, our heritage, alive for the interest of the future Filipino generations. Byaheng Bonifacio is one perfect way to remember with deep gratitude one of the greatest heroes in our history.”

The DOT said the pilgrimage takes its cue from "Lakbay Jose Rizal," which was opened in 2011 to mark Rizal's 150th birth anniversary. – KDM, GMA News

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