Before you stands a plaque. It honors Obispo Maximo Isabelo de los Reyes. This unassuming marker tells a powerful story. A story of a man who defied colonial powers. A man who championed workers’ rights. A man deeply rooted in faith and yet a revolutionary.
The Obispo Maximo Isabelo de los Reyes Anak Plaque commemorates a remarkable figure. Isabelo de los Reyes was more than a politician. He was a writer a journalist and a labor leader. He founded the first Filipino newspaper in a native language El Ilocano. He also established the Union Obrera Democratica Filipina. This was the first Filipino labor union. His legacy is immense. He is remembered as the Father of Philippine Folklore. He is also hailed as the Father of the Philippine Labor Movement and the Father of Filipino Socialism.
His life was a whirlwind of activity. He studied in Manila at Colegio de San Juan de Letran and the University of Santo Tomas. He became a notary. He used his pen to criticize colonial rule and the Catholic Church. His socialist leanings grew stronger over time. He played a key role in the 1896 revolution. He was imprisoned both in the Philippines and in Spain. His time in Spain exposed him to socialist and Marxist ideas profoundly influencing his world view.
After his release he returned to the Philippines. He founded the Union Obrera Democratica. He also worked towards independence from the United States. He combined his socialist beliefs with deep religious conviction. He became a founder of the Iglesia Catolica independiente. This is the Independent Catholic Church of the Philippines. He was elected senator from 1922 to 1928. He later served as an honorary bishop of the Iglesia Filipina Independiente.
This plaque serves as a silent tribute. It stands as a testament to a man. This man was a fighter for social justice. He was a champion of the working class. He was a devout man whose faith intertwined with his revolutionary ideals. Remember Isabelo de los Reyes. Remember his struggles his triumphs and his enduring impact on the Philippines. This plaque is a reminder of a life dedicated to progress and independence. A life dedicated to building a better future for his people.