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<img src="https://cdn.kahimyang.com/resources-27/julian-felipe.webp" alt="Julian Felipe, composer of the Philippine national anthem Lupang Hinirang, photographed in formal attire wearing glasses and a dark suit" loading="lazy" />
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Julián Reyes Felipe (1861–1944), composer of the Philippine national anthem "Lupang Hinirang".
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Early Life and Musical Training
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Julian Felipe was the youngest of twelve children. From childhood, he showed a natural gift for music. He studied at public schools in Cavite and Binondo, Manila for his basic education. A Recollect priest named Fr. Pedro Catalan noticed his talent and hired him as an organist at San Pedro Apostol Parish Church in Cavite Nuevo. This job became his training ground. As an organist, Felipe improved his skills on both piano and organ, and soon began composing his own pieces.
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<p>
He also worked as a music teacher at La Sagrada Familia, a girls' school. His early compositions became popular and showed his skill as a musician. Among his works were "Aurorita", "Amorita Danza", "Cintas y Flores", and "Reina de Cavite", written in honor of Our Lady of Porta Vaga. In 1895, the prestigious Santa Cecilia Musical Society gave him a membership and awards in recognition of his contributions to music.
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<h2>
Role in the Philippine Revolution
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<p>
When the Philippine Revolution broke out, Felipe joined his fellow Caviteños in fighting against Spanish colonial rule. He was arrested and imprisoned at Fort San Felipe in Cavite, where he was held alongside the <a href="/kauswagan/articles/597/today-in-philippine-history-september-12-1896-the-13-martyrs-of-cavite-were-executed-by-spanish-authorities" class="news_link">Thirteen Martyrs of Cavite</a>. However, he was found innocent and released on <time datetime="1897-06-02">June 2, 1897</time>. He later rejoined General <a href="/articles/3325/emilio-aguinaldos-life-and-leadership" class="news_link">Emilio Aguinaldo</a>'s forces and composed patriotic songs that inspired his countrymen to continue their struggle for independence.
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Julian Felipe: Composer of Philippine National Anthem

Learn about Julián Felipe, composer of the Philippine national anthem. Born in Cavite City on January 28, 1861, his life shaped Philippine history.

January 28, 1861: Julian Felipe born in Cavite City, Cavite