by: Gelaine Gutierrez
(The official logo of “Oryang@150.” Photo courtesy of NHCP)
“Although many know her only as the wife of Andres Bonifacio, her ‘tapang’ (courage), ‘tibay’ (resilience) at (and) ‘talino’ (intelligence) can still inspire us today,” stated Gina Batuhan the Chief Historic Sites Development Officer of the National Historical Commission of the Philippines (NHCP) during the opening of an exhibit titled “Tagubilin: The Life Lessons of Gregoria de Jesus,” on May 9, 2024, at the South Caloocan City Hall.
The exhibit, which features artworks by both professional and student artists, highlights Oryang’s significant efforts and sacrifices. The event also marked the launch of the "Oryang@150" logo, which anticipates the upcoming celebration of her 150th birth anniversary in 2025. Oryang was born and raised in Caloocan.
Karen Tañada, a descendant of Oryang present at the event, views the exhibit as a means to engage the younger generation, who are becoming more interested in national heroes and Philippine history. Through the arts, they are drawn to the rich history of the Philippines
“Itong 150th year (birth anniversary) ay tamang panahon na talagang ipakilala natin siya sa mas malawak na citizenry at sa mas malalim na pamamaraan,” she remarked.
(As we approach Oryang's 150th birth anniversary, it is the perfect time to introduce her to a wider audience in a deeper manner.)
A woman worth remembering, Gregoria “Oryang” de Jesus
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| A portrait of Gregoria “Oryang” de Jesus |
Oryang is a Filipino hero who embodied the power of unconditional love. Her unwavering devotion to Andres Bonifacio and Julio Nakpil, together with her sacrifices for the country, is a testament to the varied forms and lasting power of love.
During the revolution, Andres and Oryang faced several hardships, including separations due to revolutionary duties while striving to continue their love. Oryang was instrumental in managing the Katipunan, protecting its records, and evading arrest by roaming Manila's streets. When the revolution started, she took sanctuary with Espiridiona Bonifacio, using the alias Manuela Gonzaga to avoid imprisonment. The greatest tragedy happened when Bonifacio was captured and killed in Cavite due to internal Katipunan conflicts.
Despite Oryang's efforts, she was unable to locate her husband’s grave in Maragondon Mountain. To avoid political tensions, Oryang and Julio Nakpil found sanctuary in the mountains of Rizal, where they fell in love and married again. They raised eight (8) children and lived in Quiapo, Manila. Oryang, known as the Katipunan's Lakambini, died at the age of 68 from heart disease during the Japanese occupation, leaving behind a legacy of love and sacrifice.
Oryang’s wisdom through the lens of young artists
Historian Jose P. Santos requested Oryang to write her life story in 1928, documenting her journey with Andres Bonifacio and Julio Nakpil, as well as her involvement with the Katipunan. As she finished her autobiography, Oryang gave ten (10) pieces of advice to the youth. These include respecting elders, honoring heroes, understanding the importance of history, which shows realities without secrecy, and advocating for unity to achieve independence.
For this exhibit, ten (10) volunteer artists each depicted one of Oryang's ten (10) life lessons. Five (5) of these artists were present at the event. In an interview with the Philippine Information Agency - National Capital Region (PIA-NCR), these five (5) artists from the CINCO artists group on Facebook shared their inspiration behind interpreting Oryang's advice for youth through their artwork.
This traveling exhibit honors Gregoria de Jesus' brave character, highlighting her knowledge, charm, and unwavering dedication to noble causes. As we approach the 150th birth anniversary of the Lakambini on May 9, 2025, let this exhibit serve as a reminder of the remarkable traits that all Filipinos should strive to embrace.
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