Philippines Independence Day Event

SCOTTISH RITE VALLEY OF SAN DIEGO

 CELEBRATES PHILIPPINES INDEPENDENCE DAY

and honors the legacy of

Apolinario Mabini: The Sublime Paralytic and Mason of the Revolution

Apolinario Mabini, famously known as the “Brains of the Revolution” and the “Sublime Paralytic,” was a key figure in the Philippine fight for independence from Spanish and American rule. Born on July 23, 1864, in Tanauan, Batangas, Mabini rose from humble beginnings to become a brilliant lawyer, political thinker, and revolutionary leader.

Despite growing up in poverty, Mabini’s academic excellence earned him a law degree from the University of Santo Tomas. His exposure to liberal and nationalist ideas during his studies laid the foundation for his lifelong commitment to Philippine independence and reform. In 1896, however, he was struck by polio, leaving him paralyzed from the waist down. Though confined physically, Mabini’s sharp intellect and powerful voice propelled him to the forefront of the revolution.

Mabini became the chief adviser to General Emilio Aguinaldo and played a central role in shaping the revolutionary government. He authored important political documents such as the True Decalogue and the Constitutional Program of the Philippine Republic, which outlined his vision of a democratic and moral society. He believed that genuine independence required not just freedom from foreign rule, but also the establishment of a government rooted in justice, virtue, and education.

Mabini was also a Freemason, a connection that greatly influenced his ideology. He joined the Masonic lodge Balagtas under the Gran Oriente Español, adopting the symbolic name “Katabay.” Like many Filipino nationalists of his time, including José Rizal and Marcelo H. del Pilar, Mabini embraced Masonic principles of liberty, equality, and fraternity. Through Freemasonry, he found a community that supported reform, secular education, and resistance against colonial injustice.

In 1899, Mabini was appointed Prime Minister and Foreign Minister of the First Philippine Republic. Despite his disability, he led with strength and integrity, opposing both American colonization and internal political compromises. He was later captured and exiled to Guam for refusing to swear allegiance to the United States. He returned to the Philippines in 1903 but died shortly after from cholera on May 13 of that year.

Mabini’s legacy as a patriot, intellectual, and Freemason remains deeply respected. He showed the nation that physical limitations are no barrier to leadership and that the strength of one’s ideals can move a people toward freedom.

Join us on JUNE 07, 2025, Saturday, 5:00PM Social hour and 6PM dinner for an evening of celebration, camaraderie, and remembrance.

Honoree:  Apolinario Mabini, First Prime Minister of the Philippines

Guest of Honor: HON. ADELIO ANGELITO S. CRUZ, Consul General of the Philippines in Los Angeles

Suggested Dinner Donation: $60.00

We accept Cash, Check (payable to California Scottish Rite Foundation), or Credit Card for your convenience.

SCOTTISH RITE CENTER

1561 Camino Del Rio South

San Diego, CA 92108

Tel: 619.293.4888

All net proceeds from this event will benefit the RiteCare Childhood Language Center of San Diego, an organization dedicated to helping children overcome language and communication challenges, ensuring that they have the tools they need to succeed academically and socially. Your participation not only honors a significant moment in history but also supports a worthy cause that impacts the lives of children in our community.