In 1807, the people of Piddig (in Ilocos Norte) rose in revolt against the oppressive tax measures being imposed by the Spanish colonial government, particularly on the production of basi — the sugarcane wine much-loved by Ilocanos.

It was a grievance that has been festering since 1782 when the first revolt occurred against the tobacco and basi monopolies, and forced labor. Soothing words and promised reforms pacified the natives that time, but since nothing was done, the inevitable eruption happened 25 years later. In a tumultuous two-week period from mid to late September of 1807, Ilocano peasants and townsmen rose up in arms against the Spanish authorities. It may be significant that the Great Comet was visible during this period—a spectacle that lit up the night skies.

Perhaps believing that the heavenly apparition was a portent of forthcoming freedom, the growing mass of enraged populace marched southward through the towns of Sarrat, Laoag, San Nicolas, Batac, Paoay, and Badoc, in a trail of blood that slowly spilled into Sinait, Cabugao, Sto. Domingo. The worried alcalde mayor of Vigan called for reinforcements from the southern towns and volunteers, forming defensive entrenchments at the banks of Bantaoay River. The combined forces of loyalists finally vanquished the mob at the very doorstep of Vigan. Leader Pedro Mateo, his right hand man Ambaristo, and many of their followers were executed by public hanging, after which their heads were severed and exhibited in cages, to teach a grim lesson to the natives.

In 1821, the merchant Esteban Villanueva, a self-taught painter, was commissioned to chronicle the events of the revolt in “fourteen panels that retold the story of the revolt, from the formation of the contending forces to the defeat of the rebels.” The works are considered significant, being the first historical painting in Southeast Asia, outside Manila. The Villanueva panels, interacting with two large murals and other works by Roberto Feleo, who was inspired by the Basi Revolt paintings, are currently on exhibit at the Museum of the Filipino People until 14 December 2007.

To commemorate the bicentennial of the Basi Revolt, Congressman Ferdinand R. Marcos Jr. of the 2^nd district of Ilocos Norte, is hosting a reception from 6 in the evening of 6 December 2007 (Thursday) at the 5^th Floor South Wing Gallery of the Museum of the Filipino People (the former Finance Building) Valencia Circle, Rizal Park, Manila. He will be joined by his colleagues at the House from Region 1 (Ilocos Norte, Ilocos Sur, La Union and Pangasinan). Basi from the region will be served, together with authentic Ilocano food. Lovers of the Ilocos, Art, History and Culture will be invited to attend.

[ From the Ilocos Norte Provincial Tourism Office ]

Read more about “basi” here . . .