History through Films: The Stories of Antonio Luna and Gregorio Del Pilar
Written by: Aisha Claveria
March 18, 2025
History isn't dates and names; it's about real heroes who lived, fought, and died for something greater than themselves, and nothing beats bringing their stories to life on screen. History is told through stories, and films have become a powerful way of storytelling. “Heneral Luna” and “Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” are not movies alone; they're valuable reminders of the courage, hardships, and decisions that forged our nation. In a period of war and revolution, these two films invoke the human sides of heroes: passionate and driven by their love for the country. Seeing them, we ask ourselves, what would we have done if we were in their shoes?
Courtesy: Wikipedia
“Heneral Luna” was a 2015 Filipino historical film directed by Jerrold Tarog, portrayed by John Arcill. Based on the life of General Antonio Luna, one of the military leaders back in the Philippine-American War in the early 1900s. This film centers on Luna’s patriotism, leadership, and the struggles he faced, including corruption and his fight for Philippine independence. This also shows his personal life. His idealism moves him to dream of a united nation free from colonization, but this becomes a double-edged sword as it makes him look rigid and intolerant of others' views or weaknesses.
Courtesy: Philstar
Luna is shown as an avid patriot and military leader. Believing in Philippine independence above anything else, he focused on making an effective military force to fight against the American colonization. Despite his commitment to the greater good, he often clashes with other leaders and even civilians because of different agendas and thoughts on others' focus on political power.
His unwavering commitment is his greatest ally. Luna serves as the symbol of what the Philippines needed to secure its independence. A man who gave everything for the country. Heneral Luna shows the importance of standing for what is right even if it means facing tough situations. Heroes are not those who seek glory but those who are willing to sacrifice for the bigger cause. Responsibility, caring for the well-being of others, and making decisions best for everyone are things one can learn from this film.
Courtesy: Wikipedia
“Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” was a 2018 Filipino historical film directed by Jerrold Tarog. A sequel to the 2015 film “Heneral Luna,” portrayed by Paulo Avelino, is a continuation of the story circulating the Philippine-American War, focusing on the legacy of Gregorio Del Pilar, one of the youngest generals in the Philippine Revolutionary Army. The film centers on Gregorio Del Pilar, known for his courage and his involvement in the final battles of the war. The film also explores his journey, role in the revolution, and leadership during the war.
Courtesy: Tinig ng Plaridel
Goyo is a young, idealistic, and determined military leader who, despite his age, is one of the key generals in the Philippine army. Goyo’s youth is both a strength and vulnerability as he proves his worth given his responsibilities. He believed in the cause of independence but soon faced challenges and the realities of war and leadership. Much like General Luna, Goyo was a courageous leader who was willing to fight and sacrifice for his beloved country’s independence. Goyo’s leadership was one of the notable aspects of his life during the Battle of Tirad Pass back in 1899, ensuring the escape of President Emilio Aguinaldo and other Filipino leaders.
“Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral” provides us with a deeper understanding of what Filipinos faced during the war; it also shows that age does not define the ability to lead. Life won’t always be easy; challenges will arise, but moving forward and doing what is right and necessary helps.
History is not something we read about; it's something we experience daily. The heroes of the past, like Antonio Luna and Gregorio del Pilar, fought for our freedom today, but their history does not stay in the past. Understanding history means understanding how it shaped our society. It shows appreciation for the hardship people went through for independence and the freedom we all enjoy. As we watch these films, we reflect on how history continues to influence and shape society and how it affects our present-day decisions and identity.
References:
Meniado, B. (2018, October 27) Why Filipinos Should Read: ‘Heneral Luna,’ ‘Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral The History Behind the Movie’ https://bookbed.org/2018/10/26/why-filipinos-should-read-heneral-luna-goyo-ang-batang-heneral-the-history-behind-the-movie/
Cruz, O. (2015, September 10)“Heneral Luna’ Review: Essential viewing https://www.rappler.com/entertainment/movies/105409-heneral-luna-jerrold-tarog-movie-review/#xxl4b6qghdegf3x8r3bpogotcmm45mh6