Rebellion

A sitio near barrio Banot had been the site of the incident. Isidro and Sargento Tolentino's platoon had taken refuge there for the night, seeking shelter inside three small huts situated just off the shore, where the trees gave way to the open beach.

The huts were simple structures, hastily built from bamboo, nipa palm, and driftwood, the kind often found along the coasts—cool in the daytime, and just dry enough during light rains. Nipa was an excellent material for shade and ventilation, but it was fragile—susceptible to fire, knives, and the elements.

All three huts had sustained significant damage. One of them was on the verge of collapse, its roof slanting dangerously and its supports weakened by deep gashes. The doors had been broken down, likely kicked in or struck with brute force, and the walls were riddled with holes and long, jagged slashes.