MY FAVORITE PHILIPPINE HERO! FRANCISCO BALTAZAR

Francisco Baltazar (Balagtas) was born in the town of Panginay, Bigaa, Bulacan, on April 2, 1788. His parents were Juan Baltazar (Father) and Juana de la Cruz (Mother) both from the same town. Francisco was the youngest of the children.

Balagtas studied theology, cannon law, philosophy and other courses.

Dr. Pilapil was Balagtas first teacher in writing.

When Balagtas lived in Pandacan, he met Maria Asuncion Rivera whose nickname was Celia. Mariano Kapule, a wealthy man became his rival in his love for Celia. Mariano tried to look for a way by which Balagtas could be sent to jail. The great jealousy and sincere love for Celia made Balagtas write his famous poem "Florante at Laura".

When Balagtas came out of prison, he went to Bataan in order to become assistant judge in that town. He also became "Teniente Mayor" and "Juez de Cementera" in Udiong. Here is where he met a beautiful woman named Juana Tiambeng in 1842. While living peacefully with his family, he accused of cutting short the hair of a maid, and was imprisoned for this. He wrote several poems while in prison. When Balagtas was released , he continued on writing poems.

Balagtas died on Febraury 20, 1862 at the age of seventy-four.

Why do people consider "Florante and Laura" Francisco Balagtas' best work? Give your reasons.