MALOLOS CONGRESS

The history of Barasoain Church is deeply intertwined with the history of the Philippines itself. When General Emilio Aguinaldo moved the capital of the Revolutionary Government to Malolos, a significant national convention was convened on 15 September 1898, within the walls of Barasoain Church. The purpose of this convention was to draft the country's Constitution. Witnesses of this historic event recall a grand opening day, with the houses along the procession route, now known as Paseo del Congreso, adorned with vibrant decorations made of palmera leaves and flags. A total of one hundred and ninety-three delegates, representing each province of the Philippines, including notable figures like Fr. Gregorio Aglipay, Felipe Calderon, Antonio Luna, and Teodoro Sandiko, were in attendance. Pedro Paterno was elected as the president of the convention. It was on 29 September 1898, within the confines of this church, that the independence of the Philippines was officially ratified—a declaration that had previously been announced in Kawit, Cavite, on 12 June 1898.

Following heated debates, on 21 January 1899, the constitution was formally ratified. The republic was inaugurated two days later, on 23 January 1899, with General Emilio Aguinaldo taking the oath as its first president. Although the First Philippine Republic endured for only two years, it echoed the fervent desire of the Filipino people for independence, self-governance, and the right to wave their own flag. Barasoain Church, originally constructed as a place of worship, also played a pivotal role in declaring the nation's independence. This significance has earned it the title of the "Cradle of Freedom" and the "Shrine of Democracy."

In addition to its historical importance, the convent of Barasoain was designated as the site for the Universidad Literaria y Cientifica de Filipinas through a law passed on 19 October 1898. Don Mariano Crisostomo served as the secretary for this institution, which also housed the Instituto Burgos. Unfortunately, the university was dissolved when American forces entered Malolos.

On 1 August 1973, by virtue of Presidential Decree No. 260, Barasoain Church was officially declared a National Shrine. This decree provided for the preservation and enhancement of the shrine due to its remarkable and integral role in the history of the country. Today, and in the future, visitors can expect a well-maintained and immaculate place that stands as a silent witness to the period when Filipinos passionately aspired to create an independent nation.

SESSIONS HELD

• Regular session: 15 September 1898 – 13 November 1899

• Special session: 4 February 1899

LEADERSHIP

• President: Pedro Paterno

• Vice President / Deputy: Benito Legarda

• Secretaries: Gregorio S. Araneta and Pablo Ocampo

MEMBERS

In the year 2006, Engineer Marcial Aniag, the president of the Bulacan Historical Society, put forth a fascinating insight into the composition of the 85 delegates who gathered in Malolos during a pivotal moment in history. These individuals, who came together during a critical juncture, represented a diverse tapestry of professions and backgrounds.

Among this distinguished assembly, there were 43 individuals who had chosen the path of law, showcasing the prominence of legal expertise during that era. Additionally, there were 17 doctors, reflecting the importance of medical knowledge in addressing the healthcare needs of the time. In the realm of pharmaceuticals, five pharmacists lent their expertise to the proceedings.

The significance of education was apparent, with three educators contributing their insights to the discussions. Business interests were represented by seven delegates, underscoring the economic considerations of the era. Artistic endeavors found their place among the proceedings as well, with four painters enriching the cultural dimensions of the gathering.

The military perspective, critical in the context of the period, was provided by three military men. A priest brought spiritual wisdom to the assembly, and four farmers, the backbone of society, were also present.

Notably, five of the 85 delegates did not possess a college degree, demonstrating that diverse backgrounds and experiences converged to shape the future during this historic gathering in Malolos. This eclectic mix of talents and perspectives laid the foundation for significant developments in the Philippines' history.