User:Jondel/Gomez

Philippine Heroes - Father Mariano Gomez (1799-1872)

Father Mariano Gomez was born in Sta. Cruz, Manila on August 2,1799 to parents Francisco Gomez and Martina Custodio.

After studying at San Juan de Letran he proceeded to take up Theology at the University of Sto. Tomas.

June 2, 1824 was a memorable date for him. It was on this date when he was designated as the head priest of Bacoor, Cavite, Aside from taking care of the town church's spiritual needs, he also taught the townfolks agriculture and cottage industry. He also helped in maintaining a harmonious relationship with his co-priests. He fought for the Filipino priests' rights against the abuses of the Spanish friars.

The Spanish authorities got mad at him and ordered for his arrest. He was sent to jail along with Fr. Jose Burgos, Fr. Jacinto Zamora, Joaquin Pardo de Tavera and Maximo Paterno.

Fr. Gomez along with Fr. Burgos and Fr. Zamora were executed on February 17,1872. They were later known as the three Filipino martyrs Gomburza.

Fr. Gomez was responsible for publishing the newspaper La Verdad, meaning The Truth. This paper served as the voice of the Filipino propagandists against the Spanish colonizers.