Chapter 1:

On the Upper Deck

(The Summary of “El Filibusterismo”)

The novel begins with the steamship Tabo sailing on the Pasig River on its way to Laguna.  While the passengers on the upper deck discuss subjects regarding the lake and the slow pace of ship travel, readers are gradually introduced to some characters of the novel such as the jeweler Simoun, Doña Victorina, Ben Zayb, Don Custodio, Padre Irene, Sibyla, Camorra, and Salvi.

Learn this Filipino word:

nagtátaingang-kawalì