Tag Archives: Felipe Agoncillo

Marcela Agoncillo Historical Landmark

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The house of Marcela Agoncillo is probably the oldest of the Taal heritage gouse, built in the 17oos by her grandfather. It is in this house where Marcela sewed the first Philippine flag, but not to be mistaken with the flag of the first philippine Republic which she sewed while in exile in Hongkong with her husband Felipe, the first Filipino diplomat and patriot.

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As one enters the house, tidbits on history can be read. At the bottom of the stairs is a diorama that shows Marcela sewing the flag. The Agoncillo family has kept their furniture and other memorabilia in this house, including laminated certificates of commendation for the illustrious members of the family, mostly in the library at the entresuleo.

The entresuleo. During those days, the farmhands and commoners were limited to the entresuelo.

The entresuleo. During those days, the farmhands and commoners were limited to the entresuelo.

the living room

the living room

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The house is being maintained by the Department of Tourism – – no entrance fee is stipulated but donations are welcome.

Agoncillo Mansion, Taal, Batangas

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Not as grand as Casa Villavicencio, but nevertheless as interesting. Some will argue it is probably more interesting. That is because the mansion has a lot of antique items, including a huge mirror that the caretaker, Mang Domeng, said has been the object of desire of a wealthy female politician from the north, making offers to buy this antiquity.

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everything old, including the chandeliers

everything old, including the chandeliers

the coveted huge mirror is NOT for sale

the coveted huge mirror is NOT for sale

This is the house of Gregorio Agoncillo, the same house where Felipe Agoncillo was born. Felipe’s bust  is prominent on the garden in front of the house. Gregorio Agoncillo married a daughter of Gliceria Villavicencio, the recipient of the “wedding gift house” now known as Casa Villavicencio. Gregorio’s sister is the second wife of General Emilio Aguinaldo. Thus, more than the old furniture, a trip to the Agoncillo White House (and the casa Villavicencio) is actually a lesson in Philippine history.

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the bedroom - - I hope to stay here one time

the bedroom – – I hope to stay here one time

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The caretaker Mang Domeng has become a personal friend. After my first visit when my friends and I donated P70 each for the tour, he has given me free access and exempt from the donation/fee – – – thinking I was probably a tourist guide since I take friends to Taal a lot, and to the Agoncillo mansion in particular. But even after I told him I just love Taal and so I bring friends, he still exempts me from the visit fee. And asks me to park my car inside the property. Thus, I am developing affinity for this house. One day, I could take him up on his offer for me to actually stay overnight for a longer experience of traveling back in time.

I love to sit in this rocking chair and just watch people go by.

I love to sit in this rocking chair and just watch people go by. My wife probably felt she was a modern day Maria Clara

It is easy to find the White House. You can walk to this mansion from the Taal Basilica.