Lingering Questions On Katipunan Events in Pasig -- "Asamblea Magna"

In the latter part of the 1990s, as the country prepared for the Centennial year celebration, the city of Pasig embarked on a grand endeavor: documenting and discussing its role in the founding of the nation, particularly its connection with the Katipunan. Pasig, often considered a stronghold of the Supremo, Andres Bonifacio, was central to this historical exploration.

Indeed, civic groups were formed, public discussions held, commemorations organized, and historical markers erected, all aimed at highlighting Pasig's historical significance. In the process, a substantial amount of literature on the subject was published.

One of the foremost topics of discussion revolved around Katipunan themes, including the "Asamblea Magna," "Nagsabado," "Bitukang Manok," and more. Local government units also took part by placing historical markers, some of which were done without the support of verified documents or rigorous research.

Now, two decades later, with the release of new studies and documents related to the Katipunan and other aspects of Philippine history, several of these Pasig historical narratives are being subjected to closer scrutiny. To fully comprehend these events, we need to explore deeper and seek clarity on certain aspects.

Asamblea Magna-- What and Where?

On May 3, 1896, Supremo Andres Bonifacio called for a significant meeting of Katipunan leaders in Pasig. The purpose of this meeting was to assess what Bonifacio referred to as the "difficulties with which our Society is beset." The Katipunan's existence had been exposed, and Bonifacio believed it was necessary to initiate the uprising to avoid being cornered. This pivotal Katipunan assembly in Pasig is now known as the "Asamblea Magna."

In Gen. Santiago Alvarez's memoirs, he mentioned that this meeting, which he also called "Malaking Pulong," took place in the house of Valentin Cruz, situated "behind the Pasig Catholic church" in Barrio San Nicholas. Initially, it was planned to be held in an open area near "Sapang Nabas," but adverse weather conditions forced the Supremo to relocate the meeting to Gen. Valentin Cruz's residence.

However, there is some confusion surrounding the exact location of the "Asamblea Magna." A marker erected in the 1990s suggested a different version, claiming that the assembly took place in Ugong, further north, along the banks of the Marikina River. Another marker, said to be initiated by the LGU of Barrio Ugong, specifically pointed to Bahay Kuwago in Ugong as the site. This discrepancy raises questions about the accurate location of this pivotal event .

Katipunan marker at Bahay Kuwago, Barrio Ugong, Pasig. Claimed by Dr. Pio Valenzuela to be the site of the historic Asamblea Magna. 

The Ugong marker on the Asamblea Magna. With further reference about Nagsabado and Gen. Valentin Cruz. Said to be the initiative of the Ugong LGU. 

One probable explanation for this discrepancy could be found in Agoncillo's "Revolt of The Masses," where he pointed out that it was Pio Valenzuela who claimed the "Asamblea Magna" happened in Barrio Ugong, Pasig.

Agoncillo writes a footnote in Chapter VIII: "In an interview with Dr. Valenzuela on October 2, 1947, he told me that the meeting actually took place in Ugong and not in Bitukang Manok, which was a small river. Among those present in the meeting were: Andres Bonifacio, Emilio Jacinto, Pio Valenzuela, Emilio Aguinaldo, Enrique Pacheco, Cipriano Pacheco, Alejandro Santiago, Capitan Ramon of Pandakan, Pio H. Santos, Pantaleon Torres, Francisco Carreon, Nicodemus Carreon, Aguedo del Rosario, Candido Tirona, Gregorio Coronel, and others. The meeting ended at about eleven the next morning. After the meeting, Bonifacio and Aguinaldo fired pistols in the air to celebrate the event. The data in this chapter is based on my interview with Dr. Valenzuela and on his unpublished Memoirs."

It is essential to investigate whether there is an official term in Katipunan documentation for the "Asamblea Magna" and when the use of the term "Malaking Pulong" began. Additionally, the Latinization of the term needs examination, and the precise location of "Sapang Nabas" should be determined. 

Tradition?

It is important to note that while the need for sound documentation to establish facts about the "Asamblea Magna" is paramount, oral tradition about the Katipunan in the mentioned area, such as Barrio Ugong and its environs, still persists. There were legendary caves in the cliffs near St. Paul's College, Pasig and the motel row believed by locals to be the hideout of Katipuneros. This tradition persisted until the eve of the Centennial celebrations. This oral tradition aligns with the practice of locating KKK redoubts (baluwarte) on high ground, such as Pamitinan (Montalban), Cubao, Hagdan Bato (Mandaluyong), as the Spanish controlled most high ground areas. The only high ground they controlled was El Deposito (San Juan).

First Battle

The "Asamblea Magna" in Pasig can be considered one of the most revealing events in Katipunan history. It could have marked the beginning of the rift between Bonifacio and Aguinaldo, with Bonifacio favoring an immediate revolt and Aguinaldo seeking consultation with Rizal first. This event underscored Rizal's continued influence in the nationalist struggle. It can also be seen as a sign of the growing prominence of Cavitismo, indicating that Bonifacio was gradually being sidelined, which ultimately led to the tragic events at Tejeros. As events unfolded, Pasig's important role in the revolution was being set into motion.

On the night of August 29, 1896, Pasig Katipuneros launched an attack on the Spanish detachment at Pasig, marking what is now understood as one of the first battles of the revolution, known now as "Nagsabado."