Located in a quaint park along Rizal Avenue, the General Jose Ignacio Paua Monument honors a distinguished figure of the Philippine Revolution. As the only pure-blooded Chinese general who fought alongside Filipino revolutionaries, Paua’s monument in Legazpi City, Albay, not only celebrates his military achievements but also commemorates his deep personal and emotional ties to the region. This site serves as a tribute to his contributions and his life in Albay, where he chose to settle and integrate into the community post-war.

General Jose Ignacio Paua

Jose Ignacio Paua, 劉亨賻 (Lâu Hingpua̍h), was born on April 29, 1872, in an impoverished village of Lao-na in Fujian province, China. His journey to the Philippines began in 1890 when he accompanied his uncle to seek fortune and opportunity. Settling in Binondo, Manila, Paua initially worked as a blacksmith’s apprentice on Jaboneros Street, honing skills that would later prove invaluable in the Philippine Revolution.

During the revolution, Paua became an essential figure in the Katipunan, a secret society that spearheaded the struggle against Spanish colonial rule. His expertise as a blacksmith allowed him to repair native cannons called lantakas and other weaponry, making significant contributions to the revolutionary forces’ armament. Recognized for his talents and commitment, Paua quickly formed a close association with key revolutionary leaders, including Pantaleon Garcia and General Emilio Aguinaldo.

Aguinaldo, in particular, valued Paua for his knowledge in manufacturing firearms and his deep sympathy for the Filipino cause. This admiration led to Paua’s crucial role in suggesting and setting up an ammunition factory in Imus, Cavite. With the aid of fellow Chinese blacksmiths, Paua managed to complete the arsenal in a remarkable two days. Under his supervision, old cannons and broken Mausers captured from the enemy were repaired, large bamboo cannons were manufactured, and thousands of crude firearms and cartridges were produced with homemade gunpowder.

Paua’s involvement in the revolution was not limited to armament. He was a dynamic participant in various key battles. He fought bravely in the Battle of Binakayan in 1896, which marked his first baptism of fire. His prowess on the battlefield during this conflict saw him fighting fiercely against Spanish forces, ultimately helping force Governor General Ramon Blanco to retreat with significant losses. His valor and effectiveness in combat led to rapid promotions, culminating in his appointment as a full general by September 26, 1898.

Beyond the battlefield, General Paua also played a strategic role in fundraising for the revolutionary government. Tasked with raising funds in the Bicol Region during the Filipino-American war, he managed to gather a staggering 386,000 pesos—a testament to his dedication and resourcefulness. His efforts were so successful that they attracted attention from American forces, leading to a near-catastrophic encounter as he narrowly escaped an American gunboat while transporting a significant amount of silver pesos across Ragay Gulf.

After the wars, General Paua chose to settle in Albay, where he continued to serve his adopted country as the mayor of Manito. His integration into the local community and his leadership role underscored his commitment to the Philippines, far beyond his military contributions. He remained a beloved figure until his death from cancer on May 24, 1926, in Manila. Even in his final words to his family, Paua expressed a poignant desire to see the Philippines gain full independence, a dream he held dear but did not live to see fulfilled.

His legacy is commemorated not only in Legazpi City but also in the collective memory of the nation, with tributes such as his bust at the Aguinaldo Shrine in Kawit, Cavite, unveiled by the young Chinese Filipino community in recognition of his significant but often underappreciated contributions to the country’s fight for independence.

Public Transport

• Jeepneys: Look for jeepneys with “Daraga-Legazpi” signage. These routes pass directly by the monument, offering an efficient and scenic ride.
• Tricycles: Tricycles can be flagged down throughout Legazpi City and provide door-to-door service. They offer a more personalized and private mode of transport compared to jeepneys.

Driving

• Use Waze or Google Maps for real-time directions to “General Jose Ignacio Paua Monument.” Parking is limited, so consider arriving early or using nearby public parking spaces.

Other Options

• Ride-Hailing Apps: Apps like Grab are available and widely used in Legazpi City. They allow for easy booking and direct travel to the monument without the hassle of public transport or personal driving.
• Guided Tours: Check local tour operators for cultural and historical tours that include the monument. These tours often provide detailed historical insights along with the ease of organized transportation.