Our ancestors rose up in arms against the Spaniards primarily due to economic, social, and political oppression. This included harsh and unjust taxation, forced labor, land problems that affected agricultural provinces, and the desire to reclaim traditional rights and sovereignty that were eroded under Spanish colonial rule. Additionally, the Spaniards' imposition of religious control and their exploitation of native populations fueled resentment. Many revolts also aimed to defend native culture and resist Spanish abuses and monopoly on power. The Filipino middle class and revolutionary movements, such as the Katipunan, eventually sought independence from over 300 years of Spanish colonial rule, culminating in broader revolts like the Philippine Revolution (1896-1898). The execution of Filipino reformists, like José Rizal, further galvanized the fight for freedom and independence.