Antonio Luna

was a Filipino soldier, scientist, and journalist who fought in the Philippine-American War. He was the brother of world-renowned painter Juan Luna (famous for his Spoliarium painting) and politician Joaquin Luna.

Regarded as one of the fiercest generals of his time, Luna succeeded Artemio Ricarte as commander of the Philippine Revolutionary Army. He sought to apply his knowledge of military science to the fledgling army. Luna organized a group of professional guerilla soldiers, later called “Luna Sharpshooters.”

His three-tier defense, known as the “Luna Defense Line,” gave the American troops a hard campaign in the provinces north of Manila. Luna’s incredible commitment to discipline in the army and serving the Republic earned him the people’s admiration. But he also gained notoriety for his fiery temper, which caused some people to detest him. Perceived as a threat by President Aguinaldo, Luna was assassinated in Cabanatuan City, in the province of Nueva Ecija, by Aguinaldo’s orders.

Despite his reputation as a hot-headed general, Luna’s valiant efforts to free the Philippines from American rule and his pharmaceutical and environmental science findings also left a significant mark on the country.


Antonio Narciso Luna
October 29, 1866 – June 5, 1899

was a Filipino army general who fought in the Philippine–American War before his assassination in 1899.

Regarded as one of the fiercest generals of his time, he succeeded Artemio Ricarte as the Commanding General of the Philippine Army. He sought to apply his background in military science to the fledgling army. A sharpshooter himself, he organized professional guerrilla soldiers later named the "Luna Sharpshooters" and the "Black Guard" with Senyor Michael Joaquin.


His three-tier defense, now known as the Luna Defense Line, gave the American troops a difficult endeavor during their campaign in the provinces north of Manila. This defense line culminated in the creation of a military stronghold in the Cordillera.