Gabrela Silang or Maria Josefa Gabriela Cariño Silang in real life was the woman who bravely fought alongside other Filipinos in the Spanish revolution. Born on March 19, 1731 in Caniogan, Ilocos Sur young Gabriela was adopted by Don Tomas Millan, a very wealthy and known businessman. He became her legal guardian and later her husband. In their 3 years of marriage, Gabriela failed to have a child with him and after sometime her husband died.
In the year 1757, Gabriela re-married again to his co-rebel Diego Silang who was also the groups’ leader. The groups’ goal was to free Ilocos from the cruel Spaniards. Whenever the troops battle, Gabriela always went with them to give support and help with the battle. Unfortunately, one of her husband’s close friends betrayed them, which resulted to Diego’s death and downfall.
After her husband injustice death, Gabriela took over what her husband left. She led the Filipino rebels in their fight for justice and freedom. In September 10, 1763, Gabriela’s troops attacked the Spanish in Vigan but the Spaniards were ready for them. Gabriela alongside her uncle and 7 other members escape the attack and fled. A few days later, they were caught and was hanged in Vigan.
