Balagtas is considered the "Prince of Tagalog Poets". He is also known as Francisco Baltazar or Kikong Balagtas. He was born in Panginay, Bigaa (now Balagtas), Bulacan on April 2, 1788. His parents were Juan Balagtas and Juana dela Cruz. He was married to Juana Tiambeng of Orion, Bataan with whom he had seven children.
As much as he appreciated life, he also sensed all the injustices brought about by the Spanish rulers. His young mind cannot fully comprehend until he reached adulthood and fell in love with Celia, a love that brought trouble to his life. His strong rival who was the town cacique imprisoned him.
He expressed his feelings through poems. His very own masterpiece is the Florante at Laura. It depicts the evils that beset our countrymen during the Spanish regime. Underneath the characters, theme and setting of the written piece lies symbolisms. The book contains passages on upright living and lessons on justice, love, respect for elders, industry, discipline and patriotism. Florante at Laura is considered to be one of the best poems.
