Movie Ads: "Tirad Pass: The Last Stand of Gen. Gregorio del Pilar" (1996)

On this day in 1899, the Battle of Tirad Pass was fought between Filipino revolutionary forces and Americans of the 33rd Infantry Regiment in Ilocos Sur. Brigadier General Gregorio del Pilar led the Filipinos, while Major Peyton March led the Americans. The battle resulted in the death of Del Pilar, along with 51 Filipino soldiers.

Fast forward to July 4, 1996 a film about this battle opened in theaters. Titled Tirad Pass: The Last Stand of Gen. Gregorio del Pilar, the film has Romnick Sarmenta in the title role. This Golden Lion Films presentation is directed by Carlo J. Caparas. Other cast members include Joel Torre, Tommy Abuel, Robert Arevalo, Mikee Villanueva, Mia Gutierrez, Kimberly Diaz, and Gov. Obet Pagdanganan.

The tagline on the poster reads, "Philippines 1899 ... The American troops were about to capture the President of the Republic but this young general took them to the PEAK of courage and valor. The ultimate price: His LIFE..."

Monument of Gregorio del Pilar at the Bulacan Provincial Capitol

Located within the Bulacan Provincial Capitol plaza is a monument commemorating the heroism of Gregorio Del Pilar. Known as the "Boy General," Gregorio del Pilar (November 14, 1875 - December 2, 1899) led Philippine revolutionary forces at the fateful Battle of Tirad Pass during the Philippine-American War.