Epifanio de los Santos y Cristóbal, often known simply as Don Panyong, was a prominent Filipino polymath whose influence branched across numerous fields. He was a significant figure in Philippine history and culture, cultivating a rich legacy that continues to inspire.
Early Life and Background
Born on April 7, 1871, in Malabon, Province of Manila, Epifanio de los Santos emerged from a family that supported his intellectual development. His father, Escolastico de los Santos, was a wealthy hacendero and an alumnus of Ateneo de Manila, while his mother, Antonina Cristóbal y Tongco, was a talented musician. He began his formal education at Ateneo Municipal de Manila, where he earned a Bachelor of Arts degree with excellent grades. His early years showed signs of a multifaceted mind, as he explored painting and music, even receiving a professorship in music.
Professional Career and Public Service
Epifanio de los Santos embarked on a distinguished professional career in law and public service. After completing his law studies at the University of Santo Tomas and passing the bar exams in 1898, he quickly entered public life. He was elected to the Malolos Congress in September 1898, representing Nueva Ecija, where he served until November 1899. In 1900, he was appointed district attorney of San Isidro, Nueva Ecija.
He was elected governor of Nueva Ecija in 1902 and again in 1904, serving until 1906, becoming the first democratically elected provincial governor of Nueva Ecija. He later served as provincial fiscal for the provinces of Bulacan and Bataan, helping establish a strong foundation for legal processes. In 1918, he was appointed assistant technical director of the Philippine Census, a significant role that showcased his analytical skills. His final public appointment was as Director of the Philippine Library and Museum in 1925, a position he held until his passing in 1928.
Literary and Historical Contributions
Beyond his public service, Epifanio de los Santos made profound contributions as a historian, literary critic, and writer. He was considered one of the best Filipino writers in Spanish of his time, with his works admired by notable European scholars. He served as an associate editor for the revolutionary paper “La Independencia” in 1898, writing under the pen name G. Solon, and co-founded several other patriotic newspapers. His writings helped foster a deeper understanding of Philippine culture and identity.
He dedicated extensive time to researching Philippine history and literature, amassing a highly regarded Filipiniana collection. This collection included rare documents and manuscripts related to the Philippine Revolution. De los Santos was recognized in Europe as a philologist and biographer of Philippine subjects. His significant works include “Algo de Prosa” (1909), “Literatura Tagala” (1911), and “El Proceso del Dr. José Rizal” (1914).
Legacy and Recognition
Epifanio de los Santos’ lasting impact on the Philippines is profound. His intellectual prowess and diverse contributions earned him a place among the nation’s most revered figures. The most prominent recognition of his legacy is the renaming of Highway 54 in Metro Manila to Epifanio de los Santos Avenue, widely known as EDSA. This avenue serves as a prominent landmark, signifying his enduring presence.
Several schools, streets, a college, and a hospital have also been named in his honor. His influence continues to shape Philippine education, history, and national identity. De los Santos’ dedication to scholarship and public service established a high standard, leaving an indelible mark on Filipino intellectual and cultural heritage.