Secularization movement in the Philippines
The secularization movement in the Philippines under Spanish colonial administration from the 18th to late 19th century advocated for greater rights for native Filipino Catholic clergymen. The movement had significant implications to Filipino nationalism and the Philippine Revolution.
The Gomburza were lead figures of the secularization movement in its later years.
Ecclesiastical status of the Archdiocese of Manila, 1818
Gomburza grave in Paco Park.
Pedro Peláez y Sebastián was a Filipino Catholic priest who favored the rights for Filipino clergy during the 19th century. He was diocesan administrator of the Archdiocese of Manila for a brief period of time. In the early 19th century, Pelaez advocated for the secularization of Filipino priests and is considered the "Godfather of the Philippine Revolution." His cause towards beatification has been initiated; he is designated with the title "Servant of God."
A portrait painting of Peláez at the Pedro Pelaez Elementary School in Sampaloc, Manila, Philippines