The Balisong Cave
The historical tale of the Philippine nation often starts with Spanish Colonization from 1500’s to 1800’s. Stories and facts of abusive and inhumane treatment to Filipinos by the colonizers were heard and is said to be the main reason of resistant groups to be formed against the invaders. The largest revolutionary group was called the KKK or the Katipunan for short and was spread all throughout the islands of Luzon to some islands in Visayas.
In the island of Panay in Visayas, a part of the Katipunan fought against the Spanish soldiers in 1887 and was successful in taking over the victory. The war was called “Battle in Balisong”
And the place was recognized as an official historical site of our country. But, aside from being a historical landmark, the Balisong Cave also served as an archeological site upon the discovery of earthen jars in it.
The cave was believed to be a burial site of ancient pre-Spanish Filipinos because of the artifacts found in it but, the cave itself doesn’t look much of a grave or tomb because of its unique rock formations. Serving as a recognized tourist spot aside from being a historical site, the cave which is also known as the pilar cave holds an inner magnificence within.
Rock formations which rise up to 200feet high can be appreciated in the place; natural grayish-black structures ornamented by fresh orchids and hanging plants. Different wild animals and birds can also be found in and around the place.
The Balisong Hills and the Balisong Cave can be found in the municipality of Pilar in the province of Capiz. Serving as a unique tourist spot with great historical and archeological value, the cave must be kept preserved and respected for the present and future generations to appreciate the past of our nation.
The Balisong Hills and the Balisong Cave can be found in the municipality of Pilar in the province of Capiz. Serving as a unique tourist spot with great historical and archeological value, the cave must be kept preserved and respected for the present and future generations to appreciate the past of our nation.
The Battle of Balisong, which is also known as Ang Away sa Balisong or Ang Kadalag-an sa Balisong (Victory at the Battle of Balisong) is an annual theater production mounted by TPI since 2009.
Based on the oral narratives of Katipunero descendants in Pilar documented by Prof. Presminda P. Benliro, PhD (UP Visayas) and devised as a full-length script by artistic director Joseph Alabaña, the play presents the fight for freedom and the heroism of Pilar as well as of Iloilo and Panay revolutionaries in the 1887 Battle at Balisong Hills (formerly Kalupogan Hills) that defeated the Spanish troops led by Gov. Manuel Herrera.
Thus, the play is a tribute to Pilar fighters such as Aurelio Matillano, Don Tarang, Isidro Aglinao, Raymundo Boy, Tomas Abelita, Mariano Bacanto, Exequiel Babas, Ramonito Bacli, Dalmacio Patricio, Jorge Singson, Domingo Bonilla, Jorge Dequiña, Felimon Fuentes and Ramon Bernas.
Also remembered in the play is the chivalry and bravery of Katipunan reinforcement troops from Panay and Pontevedra including Gen. Juan Arce, Gen. Esteban Contreras, Pedro Bisnar, Pascual Barza, Manual Villasis, and Domingo Balgos among others.