MANILA — The nation paid tribute to the life and heroism of General Gregorio del Pilar as the country commemorated the 150th anniversary of his birth on November 14, 2025. The National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP), together with the Municipal Government of Bulakan, the Provincial Government of Bulacan, the Armed Forces of the Philippines, and the Philippine Military Academy, led simultaneous ceremonies in Bulakan, Bulacan, and at Fort Gregorio del Pilar in Baguio City.
In Bulakan, Bulacan—Del Pilar’s birthplace—government officials, local leaders, and descendants of the hero gathered for a solemn program highlighted by a wreath-laying ceremony. Wreaths were offered at the general’s monument by Bulakan Mayor Vergel C. Meneses, NHCP Executive Director Carminda R. Arevalo, Provincial History, Arts, Culture and Tourism Office Head May Arlene DG. Torres, and Dr. Gregorio E.H. del Pilar, who represented the del Pilar family.
The program opened with an invocation led by Rev. Fr. Javier M. Joaquin of the Diocesan Shrine and Parish of Nuestra Señora de la Asunción. The Armed Forces of the Philippines and the Hiyas ng Bulacan brass band assisted in the ceremony, adding solemnity and military honors befitting the celebrated revolutionary general.
At the Philippine Military Academy in Baguio City, Undersecretary of National Defense Irineo C. Espino, representing Defense Secretary Gilberto C. Teodoro, led the parallel commemoration at the hero’s monument inside the academy grounds.
Throughout the month of November, various educational and cultural activities were organized by the Provincial Government of Bulacan, KABESERA Samahang Pangkalinangan ng Bulacan, Samahang Pangkasaysayan ng Bulacan, and Bulacan Salinlahi, Inc. The lineup included the Pambansang Kumperensya sa Bulacan set for November 27–29, and activities leading to the annual remembrance of the Battle of Tirad Pass on December 2.
The NHCP also held the final installment of its Republika Lecture Series at the PMA, featuring Del Pilar biographer and historian Dr. Jose Victor Z. Torres.
Born on November 14, 1875, Gregorio H. del Pilar emerged as one of the youngest generals of the Philippine Revolutionary Army. After distinguishing himself in early campaigns, he was promoted to Brigadier General by President Emilio Aguinaldo and later commanded the rear guard that protected the retreating Philippine Republic during the Philippine–American War.
On December 2, 1899, Del Pilar led 60 volunteers from Bulacan and Ilocos in a spirited defense of Tirad Pass, the strategic gateway to the Cordilleras. Despite overwhelming odds, Del Pilar and 52 of his men perished, cementing their place in history as symbols of courage and sacrifice for the motherland.
The NHCP reaffirmed its commitment to preserving the nation’s historical memory through its museums, publications, research programs, and efforts to conserve significant heritage sites.
