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PNoy, Congress urged to declare Andres Bonifacio as 1st PHL president
(Updated 3:15 p.m.) The Manila City government on Tuesday passed a resolution urging President Benigno Aquino III and the Congress to recognize Andres Bonifacio as the first president in the Philippines.
A resolution, authored by Manila Councilor John Marvin "Yul Servo" Nieto, stressed that Bonifacio founded the first national government of the Philippines and served as president from August 24, 1896 "until his tragic death on May 10, 1897."
Citing original documents attested by historians, the resolution argued that "the Katipunan, under Bonifacio’s leadership, ceased being a secret society and was forced to come out in the open as a revolutionary government with its own laws, bureaucratic structure and elective leadership."
The resolution said Bonifacio’s presidency was also further acknowledged in contemporary Spanish publications.
"For instance, in the February 8, 1897 issue of the La Ilusraction Española y America, an article on the Philippine Revolution appeared, accompanied by a portrait of Bonifacio in a black suit and white tie, with the caption 'Andres Bonifacio/Titulado (Presidente) de la Republica Tagala,'" it added.
During a press conference on Friday, presidential spokesperson Abigail Valte said they have yet to discuss the matter with the President.
"We will take time when we get to sit down with him—his thoughts on that particular matter," she said, adding that they still have to consult historians in relation to this.
Meanwhile, according to a related resolution passed also on Wednesday, the local government urged public and private colleges in Manila to include in their curriculum courses devoted to the life, works and heroism of Bonifacio.
Meanwhile, according to a related resolution passed also on Wednesday, the local government urged public and private colleges in Manila to include in their curriculum courses devoted to the life, works and heroism of Bonifacio.
"All educational institutions are mandated by the Constitution to, among others, inculcate patriotism and nationalism, foster love of humanity, and promote respect for human rights and appreciation of the role of national heroes in the historical development of the country," it said. —Amanda Fernandez and Kimberly Jane Tan/KG, GMA News
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