 |
Martin De GoitiSpanish soldier, navigator
Date of Birth: 01.01.1549
Country:  Spain |
Content:
- Early Life and Military Career
- Conquest of the Philippines
- Battles in Manila
- Advancement and Consolidation
- Later Years and Death
- Battle of Manila (1574)
Early Life and Military Career
Martín de Goiti, a Spanish military commander and navigator, was born into a noble family in the Basque region of Spain. Little is known about his early life, but he joined the Spanish military and participated in various campaigns in the Pacific Ocean and the East Indies, beginning around 1565.
Conquest of the Philippines
Arrival in the PhilippinesIn May 1570, Martín de Goiti arrived in the Philippines as part of Miguel López de Legazpi's expedition. Legazpi intended to establish Spanish control over the region, and Goiti played a key role in the conquest.
Battles in Manila
Goiti and Legazpi's forces entered Manila Bay and encountered resistance from three local rajahs: Sulayman III, Sulayman II, and Lakandula. Goiti led the attack on the settlement of Tondo, establishing the Spanish foothold in the region.
Advancement and Consolidation
The Spanish forces, supported by some Muslim chiefs, continued to advance along the Pasig River, capturing and burning down settlements. By 1571, they had made significant progress and laid the foundation for the fortress of Santiago. With the arrival of Legazpi in June 1571, the Spanish officially established their presence in the Philippines.
Later Years and Death
Exploration and EncomiendasFrom 1571 to 1573, Martín de Goiti participated in explorations of the regions that would become the provinces of Pampanga and Pangasinan. As was customary for Spanish conquistadors, Goiti received land grants from the king in recognition of his contributions.
Battle of Manila (1574)
In 1574, Goiti defended Manila against an attack by the Chinese pirate Li Ma Hong, who had arrived with a force of 3,000 men. With the assistance of fellow conquistador Juan de Salcedo, Goiti defeated Li Ma Hong, who retreated northward.
Martín de Goiti died in 1575 and was buried in the San Agustin Church in Intramuros, Manila. A square in the capital city is named in his honor, recognizing his role in the conquest and early history of the Philippines.
