SILANG, Josefa Gabriela

Josefa Gabriela Silang was the widow of Diego Silang, leader of the Ilokano revolution against the Spanish government. When her husband was assassinated, she took over the leadership of the revolt in Ilocos.

In 1762, the British successfully invaded Manila. The defeat of the Spanish authorities served to convince many Filipinos that the Spanish forces were not invincible. Diego Silang, an Ilokano from Pangasinan, led a revolt against the Spanish government. Diego was able to expel the Spanish provincial governor from Vigan and won some skirmishes. The Spanish authorities hired Miguel Vico, a friend of Diego Silang, to assassinate him. On May 28, 1763, Diego Silang was shot in his own house in Vigan.

After Diego Silang's death, his wife, Josefa Gabriela, took over the revolt and fought courageously. A strong force was then sent against her. This time, she was forced to retreat to Abra. Riding a fast horse, Gabriela led her troops towards Vigan, but she was driven back. She fled again to Abra, where she was captured. On September 20, 1763, she and about 100 followers were executed.