Chapter 35

When news of Padre Damaso’s death spread, the townspeople were shocked. At first, they couldn’t believe it, but soon they began discussing the events that led up to it. Some talked about the earlier confrontation when Padre Damaso slapped a young man during mass for leaving early. The young man, who pretended not to understand Tagalog, defended himself, leading to a fight. Some agreed with Padre Damaso’s actions, while others thought the young man was right.

A young man said, “Padre Damaso is dead. His face was covered in blood when they found him.” Another replied, “May he rest in peace, but he hasn’t even settled his debts!” They spoke about the argument, with one saying, “Padre Damaso slapped the young man for joking about not understanding Tagalog.” Others murmured, “If that had happened to me…”

Meanwhile, the older people had different views. “It’s hard to say who was right,” said the gobernadorcillo, “but if Señor Ibarra had been more careful…” Don Filipo interrupted, “If Padre Damaso had been more careful, we wouldn’t be in this mess.” “The friars are always right,” the gobernadorcillo sighed. “But that’s only because we let them be,” Don Filipo replied.

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The women in town also shared their thoughts. One woman said, “I’d be heartbroken if my son did something like that. His mother would be too.” Another responded, “I’d be proud if my son defended his father’s honor.” Sister Rufa worried about the excommunication, but Capitana Maria stood firm, saying, “Honor for fathers and mothers is sacred.”

In the plaza, a group of rustics discussed the consequences of the situation. One man said, “Now there won’t be any school. The friars called Don Crisostomo plibustiero, and everything will change.” “What’s plibustiero?” another man asked. “It’s the worst thing you can call a Christian,” came the reply. The rustics were worried, agreeing that no one should ever be called that.

The town was divided, with some supporting Ibarra and others fearing the power of the friars. This incident sparked a deeper conversation about justice, fear, and the courage to stand up for what is right.