Antonio S. TAN*

The Chinese Mestizos and the Formation of the Filipino Nationality

The recorded history of the Philippines would be incomplete as a basis for understanding contemporary society unless it takes into account the Chinese mestizos' contributions to our development as a nation.

The Chinese mestizos were an important element of Philippine society in the 19th century. They played a significant role in the formation of the Filipino middle class, in the agitation for reforms, in the 1898 revolution, and in the formation of what is now known as the Filipino nationality. In contemporary times their role in nation-building continues.

Filipinos with Chinese blood in their veins have occupied important positions in the highest levels of the government. During the first half of the 20th century, one of the dominant national political figures, later the Vice- President of the Philippine Commonwealth, was Sergio Osmena who was a Chinese mestizo. During the American regime, the roster of the Philippine National Assembly was a veritable list of Chinese mestizos. A number of Chinese mestizos have become president : Jose P. Laurel, Elpidio Quirino, Ramon Magsaysay, and Ferdinand E. Marcos. Others in public service recently or today include Prime Minister Cesar Virata, Ministers Carlos P. Romulo, Roberto Ongpin, Arturo Tanco, National Food and Grains Administrator Jesus Tanchanco, Director of the National Library, Dr. Sera- fin Quiason and Supreme Court Justice Claudio Teehankee.