121587

In October 1587, history was made on the shores of California when the first Filipinos landed at Morro Bay. The Expedition of the Esperanza

Today, this event is recognized as the earliest documented presence of Filipinos in what is now the continental United States. A monument at Morro Bay marks the spot of the landing, predating the arrival of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock by 33 years. 121587

On July 12, 1587, the Spanish galleon , commanded by Pedro de Unamuno , set sail from Macau. The crew consisted of Spaniards and Philippine Indios , along with three Franciscan friars. Their mission was twofold: to find the mythical islands of "Rica de Oro" and "Rica de Plata" and to transport Chinese goods to New Spain. Landing at Morro Bay In October 1587, history was made on the

: On the third day (October 20), tensions rose, and a violent encounter occurred between the expedition and the native Californians, resulting in the death of one Spaniard and one Filipino. Commemoration On July 12, 1587, the Spanish galleon ,