 |
|
|
 |
The name
Ginatilan evolved from the native word "Hinatdan" which means things
are brought. When the place was just a barrio of Samboan, it had
already a chapel. But aside from the building, there was nothing to use
for Sunday masses. From Samboan, all including the acolytes - were
brought to the barrio. Thus, the place was called Hinatdan.
This
seaside town was not spared from Moro pillages, which was prevalent
during those days. For safeguard, the villagers had to build
watchtowers connected with high walls. Because of these, pirate attacks
were checked and the people were able to live their municipal building
and church. The church was completed in February 2, 1829. It still
stands today.
In response to the clamor of the
residents to be independent from Samboan, Spanish officials were sent to
investigate the merits of their request. Their petition was eventually
granted. But because Hinatdan was a tongue-twister to the Spaniards,
they changed the name of the town to Ginatilan.
The
town has spawned many notable personages. Most illustrious among them
is Pedro Calungsud, now a saint, who is the second Filiino and the first
Visayan to belong to the devine hosts. Dr. Leandro Tojong became City
Mayor of Cebu City and Congressman of the then 5th district of Cebu.
There
were a number of heroes among the Ginatilanons. In the anti-spanish,
were General Saturnino Echavez (a street in Cebu City was named
after him) and Teniente Anong Guerrero. During World War I, Ginatilan
sons who joined the cause for democracy were Alejandro Cadungog, Pio
Cadungog, Anacleto Sinco, Matias Echavez and many others. In World
War II, a greater number fought against the Japanese, and many never
returned to their hometown.
|
