“Heroism is not to be found in foreign lands, but in our own birthplace, Cebu.”-CEBUpedia
CEBUpedia wrote a three-part series article on “SUDLON, Historical Landmark” (May 3, 6, and 8, 2019). It is taken from an article in the book “CEBU: History of its Four Cities & Forty Nine Municipalities” authored by the brains of the Cebu City Charter, lawyer Gervasio Lira Lavilles in 1965.
Dedicating the sacred land for future generations, students of the Cebu Junior College, University of the Philippines in 1941 placed a marker of the heroism of the KKK Cebu, the same revolutionaries who fought the enemies thought to be undefeatable.
Sudlon, became the headquarters of the regrouped forces that was dispersed after the assassination of Leon Kilat (Pantaleon Villegas) by the leaders of Carcar, Cebu on April 8, 1898.
It became the stronghold against the Spanish forces and the Americans who replaced them after we were sold by Spain to the United States via the document, Treaty of Paris, signed on December 10, 1898.
The Cebuanos of the past were not cowards, they loved Cebu and freedom more than the comforts and the fanaticism of the Spanish and American invaders. That is why it is revolting and insulting to Cebuano history for Cebuano leaders to kowtow to Imperial Manila or any emissary from the presidential palace who is arrogantly trampling on Cebu’s heritage and integrity.
This is the simple yet heartfelt text of the marker, a summation of the bravery of the Cebuanos of the past:
“This tablet marks the spot, Sudlon, the last stronghold of the Filipino forces in Cebu against the American Invasion.”
What magnificent display of valor. We urge the Cebu City’s Cultural and Historical Affairs Office (CHAO) to support this vision of rededicating the marker in honor of the KKK Sugbo.
Cebu is the birthplace of heroes. Long live the Cebuanos.