Lapu-Lapu is widely celebrated as the first Filipino hero, famously vanquishing Portuguese conquistador

Ferdinand Magellan and his army in their attempt to colonise Mactan Island. In honor of his triumph,
Lapu-Lapu’s monument stands tall in the island of Mactan today, symbolising the country’s first
successful resistance to Spanish colonisation.

Apart from successfully defying foreign invaders, little is known about the man and legend that is Lapu-
Lapu. Citing scholarly research and historical accounts, Culture Trip aims to paint a picture of this
Philippine hero and the events that shaped the future of the nation.

Lapu-Lapu: Chief and warrior of Mactan

Culture Trip asked locals in the Philippines what they thought about Lapu-Lapu, and they responded
with terms like: “Brave Mactan Leader,” “Pinuno na may paninindigan” (leader who stood for his
people) and “Leader who fought for his people.” His reputation precedes him, weaving history and myth
into the fabric of modern Filipino culture.

Although the exact date of his arrival is unknown, most historical accounts state Lapu-Lapu reached the
shores of Sugbo (now referred to as Cebu) from the neighboring island of Borneo. At this time, Rajah
Humabon ruled over Sugbo and was recognized by natives as the island’s king. Lapu-Lapu asked
Humabon for a place to settle in the archipelago; in response, the king offered him the region of
Mandawili (known today as Mandaue), including the Opong area. He soon after became the chief of the
region’s people — referred to as Datu Lapu-Lapu of Mactan island.

Locals held the Bornean native in high regard as one of their own. He defeated invading Bornean
soldiers and pirates, helped enrich Sugbo’s trade port and stood up for his people. Things seemed to be
going well. However, Lapu-Lapu’s good relationship with Rajah Humabon ‘deteriorated’ when he raided
merchant ships in Opong area, changing the course of events to come.