Ang Mamatay ng Dahil Sa’yo
A Reaction Paper of the Movie, “Heneral Luna”
By: Fhien Charish N. Garcia, STEM 12 – Galilee
Heneral Luna is a historical fiction set in the Philippines during the Spanish-
American War. John Arcilla portrays General Antonio Luna as the protagonist of the film,
aiming to highlight his life and nature during the war. The film is filled with blood and anger
as Filipinos fought for independence against the new colonizer, the United States of
America. Moreover, the movie is filled with pride and anger between the parties of Luna
and the President Emilio Aguinaldo. Despite the aim of achieving freedom from foreign
powers, the Filipino elites including Aguinaldo, as depicted in the film, bowed down to the
foreign powers while Luna fought for the motherland's independence.
The film started with Joven Hernando interviewing General Antonio Luna, who
discusses his efforts in the Philippine Revolutionary Army and his heated relationship with
President Aguinaldo. Luna encounters with American forces and the issues among
cabinet members whose beliefs and stand are against his plans during the revolution,
which includes confrontations with uncooperative officers and political adversaries.
Despite his dedication to independence for the country, Luna's aggressive tactics and
uncompromising demeanor lead to his assassination by his own men. Following his
death, conflicting narratives emerge regarding his legacy, with some praising his bravery
and others condemning his methods. The tragedy underscores the complexities and
divisions among Filipinos, as well as the challenges faced in achieving unity and
independence.
From the very beginning, the film depicts conflict among cabinet members under
Aguinaldo's leadership. This reflects that despite Luna's efforts to obtain independence
from foreign powers, some prioritize greed and personal gain over the country, as seen
in Luna's statement, "Negosyo o kalayaan? Bayan o sarili? Pumili ka!" Desperate for the
independence Filipinos deserve, Luna's efforts are hindered as some troops remain loyal
to Aguinaldo rather than to the country. Watching this scenario, I couldn't help but feel
angry at the greedy leaders who prioritize self-interest over the country's betterment and
independence. Many Filipino troops sacrificed their lives for the country, which may put
to waste if leaders choose to be puppets of the Americans.
In addition, Aguinaldo shows that he can be easily deceived by the elites, as
depicted through the words of "Paano makakakain pamilya namin?" with their
questionable credibility, exemplified by Leo Martinez portraying Pedro Paterno. This is
also evident in Felipe Buencamino's stance. The leaders under Aguinaldo's leadership
display outrageous behavior, willing to sell the Philippines for their personal interests.
Despite Luna's fervent fight for the country's independence, displaying anger and
steadfast disagreement, he is ultimately assassinated by fellow Filipino troops. A general
is wasted in times of need and revolution, as Major General Wesley Merritt stated in the
film. I feel disappointed that they wasted a leader whose stance was for the Filipino
people. The country deserves a leader like him, willing to sacrifice his life for the sake of
the motherland's independence against foreign colonizers.
In conclusion, Heneral Luna effectively underscores the complexities surrounding
the quest for national independence. Through General Antonio Luna's unorderly
leadership journey and eventual betrayal, the film sheds light on the deep-rooted divisions
and individual agenda that hinder collective progress. Luna's unwavering commitment to
the Filipino cause, contrasted with the self-serving actions of his peers, emphasizes the
difference between genuine patriotism and self-proclaimed patriots with opportunistic
betrayal. The film gave reflection to viewers to contemplate Luna's poignant question,
"Negosyo o kalayaan? Bayan o sarili? Pumili ka!" Further, Luna's tragic fate serves as a
reminder of the sacrifices made by those who challenge the elites and those in power for
the greater good, for the Filipinos. Ultimately, the film urges us to confront uncomfortable
truths about leadership, loyalty, and the enduring struggle for sovereignty, leaving a
lasting impact on audiences to show patriotism to the country as lives were sacrificed for
the Philippines' independence as the film concludes.
