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.
: 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
: Two Filipinos, armed with swords and shields, were the first to step ashore as part of a scout formation.
The voyage reached the California coast on October 18, 1587, at a latitude of 35.5 degrees North.
: They encountered local indigenous groups and offered food and clothing as peace offerings.
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