What if I told you Krus na Ligas holds secrets from centuries ago? This barangay in Quezon City has a rich history. It even predates Quezon City itself. Krus na Ligas is located within the University of the Philippines Diliman.
Let’s dive into the story of Krus na Ligas. Its origins trace back to the 17th century. People from Marikina sought new land to cultivate. They settled in this hilly area. They called their community Gulod. Gulod means hilltop in Tagalog. Krus na Ligas became a visita of Marikina. Legend says a chapel was built near a unique tree. This tree was a ligas tree. Its branches grew in a cross shape. This is where the name Krus na Ligas comes from.
The community of Krus na Ligas was first recorded in 1705. Back then only 30 families lived here. Fast forward to the Philippine Revolution. Krus na Ligas played a significant role. After the Battle of Pasong Tamo in 1896, Andres Bonifacio and his fellow Katipuneros sought refuge here. They gathered in a house near Plaza Santa Inez to plan their next move.
In 1939 Krus na Ligas was separated from Marikina. It became part of the newly formed Quezon City. In 1949 President Elpidio Quirino made a decision. He authorized the sale of public land. This land included farmlands tilled by Krus na Ligas residents. The buyer was the University of the Philippines. The price was one peso. This marked a turning point for Krus na Ligas. Significant portions of farmland became government housing projects. These are now known as Sikatuna Village, UP Village, and Teacher’s Village.
Despite these changes Krus na Ligas retained its identity. However the inclusion of Krus na Ligas within UP Diliman’s campus created a land dispute. Residents became considered illegal settlers. They fought for the land their families had occupied for generations. Attempts to resolve the land ownership failed for many years.
An agreement was reached during Edgardo Angara’s term as UP President. The university would donate 15.8379 hectares to Quezon City. This was in exchange for removing structures on the university’s boundary. It also required building a fence and relocating families. However the residents failed to meet the conditions. The donation was revoked.
In 2008 a new UP charter prohibited the sale of university land. The residents of Krus na Ligas sought an amendment to the charter. Finally in 2019 Republic Act No 11454 became law. This allowed the sale of some land portions subject to certain conditions.
Despite the land dispute Krus na Ligas remains an important community. Many UP students and employees reside here. The area is known for its affordable boarding houses and eateries. It is also a place for intellectual discussions and of course beer.
As you stroll through Krus na Ligas you walk through history. A historical marker stands on the old church’s facade. It commemorates the role Krus na Ligas played in the Philippine Revolution. Today Krus na Ligas is a vibrant community. It blends history, culture, and student life. It’s a place where the past and present intertwine.