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Gregorio AglipayFilipino religious and political figure, church reformer
Date of Birth: 09.05.1860
Country:  Philippines |
Content:
- Early Life and Education
- Priesthood and Support for the Independence Movement
- Vicar General of the Philippine Army and Excommunication
- Establishment of the Philippine Independent Church
- Political Career
- Later Life and Death
Early Life and Education
Gregorio Aglipay was born into a poor family in the Philippines. Orphaned at a young age, he was raised by his maternal relatives. In 1876, Aglipay moved to Manila and attended a private school and later the University of Santo Tomas to study law. However, he eventually decided to become a priest and enrolled in the seminary in Vigan.
Priesthood and Support for the Independence Movement
In 1889, Aglipay was ordained into the priesthood. He served in various parishes in the Philippines and became known for his support of the anti-Spanish rebellion that began in 1896. Aglipay interceded on behalf of patriots sentenced to death, successfully securing pardons in many cases. He also criticized the pro-Spanish stance of the Catholic Church in the Philippines.
Vicar General of the Philippine Army and Excommunication
In 1898, Aglipay was appointed vicar general of the Philippine army. He held this position during the Philippine-American War (1899-1901). Due to his support for the independence movement, Aglipay was excommunicated by the Catholic Church.
Establishment of the Philippine Independent Church
In 1902, Aglipay founded the Philippine Independent Church (PIC), an independent religious organization that rejected the authority of the Pope. He became the first head (metropolitan) of the PIC and played a significant role in its growth and development.
Political Career
In the early 1930s, Aglipay led the Republican Party, which advocated for peaceful independence for the Philippines. In 1935, he ran for president but lost the election. His Republican Party later joined the People's Alliance, a reformist coalition.
Later Life and Death
In 1939, Aglipay married after the PIC lifted its celibacy requirement. He died of a stroke in 1940.
