Balagtas Bulacan Philippines

Balagtas Bulacan

Recorded history of Balagtas was traced during Spanish regime. There were no evident materials prior to this period. Caruya was the original name of the town. But it was later known as Bigaa derived from the name of a kind of tree thriving in the area. Spanish occupation was characterized with tyranny and abuse. The lives of the people where placed in jeopardy and danger. To check the practice of the Spaniards, a certain person named Eusebio Roque alias Maestrong Sebio organized a band of insurrector and revolted. Unfortunately, the group was defeated, 14 persons were killed including its order, Maestrong Sebio. The remaining members disassociated themselves with the movements.

In 1900 when the Americans took possession of the islands Tombio A. Jose was appointed president of the town. In 1902, civil government was instituted by the United State of America, which provided that the officials are elected by direct vote of qualified voters, and Faustino Santos was elected president of the town.

The American occupation was characterized with a promising future. Emphasis was on educating the people, thus the culmination of the establishments of schools, and institute religious tolerance. Bigaa has gained its sent of government in 1912 when it was separated from Bocaue. And in 1949 Pandi was given own character as a separate municipality from Bigaa. Shortly in June 18, 1966 the Philippine Congress approved Republic Act 4702 remaining the town to Balagtas in honor of the famous poet laureate Francisco “Balagtas” Baltazar. He was born in Panginay, Bigaa on April 2, 1788. One of his great accomplishments was his famous Florante at Laura. He is considered as one of our national heroes.