REFLECTIVE ASSESSMENT NO.

Answer the following questions:

1. What were the significant results of Ferdinand Magellan and Pigafetta’s

explorations?

Through their expedition did they not only unearth a great deal of the unknown
such as proving that the Earth wasn’t flat and was in fact, round in shape; but they’ve
also contributed to the knowledge of the universe and the field of astronomy by being
able to observe the two galaxies, now known as “Magellanic Clouds”. Another one of
his discoveries was the Pacific Ocean, the biggest ocean in the world; he was also the
first ever European to cross it. Other notable discovery that is still relevant as of today
is their discovery of a western route now known as the “Strait of Magellan” or Estrecho
de Magallanes, to the Spice Islands (Moluccas). This strait provided a passage
between the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans that is still used as of today by approximately
1,500 ships every year. They’ve also revamped the idea of globalization by pioneering
an innovative use of sailing technology to be utilized as importing and exporting
products by cargo ship, furthering the commerce between countries. Their
implementation and propagation of Christianity in the Philippines was revolutionary as
it eventually comprises at least 92% of the population today.

2. Why do you think Lapu Lapu refused the offer of Magellan?

Other than being mentioned in Pigafetta’s books, little to no reliable knowledge is

given about Lapu Lapu yet he is still regarded as the country’s first hero. Therefore, I
can only assume why he rejected Magellan’s offer of swearing fealty to Rajah
Hummabon. Magellan misunderstood Rajah as being the “king” and thought Lapu
Lapu was a subordinate of his; thus, Lapu Lapu rejected his offer because by
accepting it, that would mean he and his subordinates will be submitting to his own
junior, someone lesser than him.