The History of Batangas
Batangas is a province of the Philippines but has a long history, including Spanish colonization.
Early Period
The history of Batangas can be traced to the 13th century, when inhabitants traded with the Yuan Dynasty-era China. Historians theorize the inhabitants of the province are descendants of Borneans under the leadership of Datus (chiefs), who founded a settlement by the Taal River. The earliest known name of the area is Kumintang, named after one of the rulers.
Arrival of the Spaniards
In 1570, two Spanish generals stumbled upon the settlement founded by the Datus. It was there that they set up their own settlement--later called Balayan--and founded the town of Taal in 1572. In 1578, Balayan became a municipality under Spain as the Province of Bonbon.
A Province is Born
In 1581, the Spanish government abolished the Province of Bonbon and created a new province that came to be known as the Province of Balayan. After a volcanic eruption buried Taal in 1754, Batangas City--so named after "batangs," the logs found in the Calumpang River--became the new capital, with the province adopting its name.
The Revolutionary Period
In 1896, Batangas took the lead over the provinces in the Philippines in revolting against Spain. It was during this period, 1896 to 1902, that Batangas distinguished itself as the "Cradle of Heroes and Nationalists" because of the region producing a host of revolutionary leaders.
Batangas Today
Since 1946--when the Philippines attained independence from the United States--Batangas, with proximity to the country's capital, Manila, has flourished as a popular tourist attraction.
Tags: named after, Province Bonbon