Reflection on Goyo:
The Burden of
Heroism and the
Complexity of
Leadership
MAALA KARYL
MARCH 21, 2025
BSCRIM-2A
Submitted to: MA’AM ALEX DERIQUITO
Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral" is a historical biopic that explores the life of General Gregorio del Pilar,
a young and gallant hero of the Philippine-American War. The documentary offers a sophisticated
exploration of the complexities of the Philippine Revolution, specifically with regards to the themes of
heroism, sacrifice, and the underappreciated characters in history. It addresses the struggle of the
Filipino people against colonial powers, the internal struggles of the revolutionary movement, and the
effects of historical revisionism on the collective memory of the nation. Through dramatization and
historical critique, the film encourages viewers to think about the legacy of Andres Bonifacio and the
wider implication of the revolution on the present Philippine society.
When I saw the film, I was impressed with a combination of admiration and sadness. The acting of
Goyo as a fiery but tormented leader struck a chord with me. I found myself thinking about the burden
of duty that goes with leadership, particularly during a period of national upheaval. The way the movie
touched on the sacrifices made by young revolutionaries such as Goyo left me with an understanding of
the complexities of their decisions and the bitter realities they endured. Two of the main themes that
really caught my eye were the legacy of Andres Bonifacio and historical revisionism. Bonifacio,
sometimes called the Father of the Philippine Revolution, is portrayed in the movie as a hero whose
achievements are sometimes overshadowed by alternative versions of the past. The documentary
highlights that Bonifacio's vision for a free Philippines was born out of a deep sense of nationalism and a
yearning for social justice. One of the most moving scenes in the movie is when Goyo is reminiscing
about Bonifacio's ideals and says, "We fight not just for freedom, but for the dignity of our people." This
line captures the heart of Bonifacio's legacy and reminds us of the continuous fight for equality and
justice in the Philippines today.
The issue of historical revisionism is also essential in realizing the intricacies of the Philippine
Revolution. The movie depicts how stories get constructed and reconstructed over time, usually to
advance specific political ends. This can be seen in the manner some individuals, such as Emilio
Aguinaldo, are painted in a better light, whereas others, such as Bonifacio, are pushed to the periphery.
The film asks audiences to critically question their sources of historical information and appreciate the
value of diverse viewpoints in the construction of a more truthful interpretation of the past. Applying
these themes to my personal experience, I have many times struggled with the stories taught in
Philippine history classes. The film led me to doubt the completeness of my education and the bias that
possibly clouded my perception of what happened in the past.
It led me to understand that history is more than a series of dates and events but a living story that
continues to inform our identity and values as a nation.
In considering the Philippines of today, the film reminded me of the continuous efforts for social
justice and national identity. The lives lost of names such as Goyo and Bonifacio put us in perspective
that the battle for a good tomorrow continues. The documentary becomes a call of action to today's
youth to embrace their heritage, learn from the past, and help construct the continued chapter of
nation-building. In short, "Goyo: Ang Batang Heneral" significantly changed my perception of the
Philippine Revolution and how it relates to modern-day issues. The movie's discussion of heroism,
Andres Bonifacio's legacy, and the nature of historical accounts has taught me to critically examine the
past and its relationship to the current and future generations. It serves as a reminder that
understanding our history is essential in navigating the challenges we face today, and that the stories of
our heroes, both celebrated and unsung, continue to inspire us in our quest for justice and equality.
