CAVITE CITY — The City Government of Cavite led a solemn commemorative ceremony this morning, September 12, 2026, to honor the memory and heroism of the Thirteen Martyrs of Cavite (XIII Martires de Cavite), marking 130 years since their execution by Spanish colonial authorities during the Philippine Revolution.
A Solemn Tribute to Cavite's Heroes
The commemorative events began with a short program at Garita Elementary School, spearheaded by City Mayor Denver Chua and Vice Mayor Raleigh Rusit. They were joined by City Councilors Jet Barrera, Mau Lu, Emily Tirona, and Jun Novero, alongside Cavite City Tourism and various local organizations dedicated to preserving the city's historical heritage. As part of the tribute, local officials laid wreaths at the monument of the thirteen martyrs located at Centennial Park. A highlight of the event was the official unveiling of a new historical marker dedicated to the history of the XIII Martires, made possible through the collaboration and efforts of the Cavite City Historical Society. This new marker joins the existing monument erected in 1906 at the head of the San Roque causeway, where their remains were reinterred by their families.
Remembering the Thirteen Martyrs
The Thirteen Martyrs of Cavite were Filipino patriots executed by Spanish colonial authorities on September 12, 1896, following the outbreak of the Philippine Revolution . The heroes remembered during the ceremony included: Maximo Inocencio (64, proprietor); Jose Lallana (54, tailor & former corporal); Eugenio Cabezas (41, watchmaker); Maximo Gregorio (40, clerk); Hugo Perez (40, physician); Severino Lapidario (38, chief warden); Alfonso de Ocampo (36, jail guard); Luis Aguado (33, arsenal employee); Victoriano Luciano (32, pharmacist); and Feliciano Cabuco (31, hospital employee). The three other martyrs whose names complete the list of thirteen were Agapito Conchu (teacher and artist), Francisco Osorio (pharmacist and businessman), and Antonio San Agustin (bookstore owner). Their execution was a pivotal moment that fueled the fires of revolution, and their legacy continues to inspire Caviteños today.
