February 06

Franciscus Patricius was born in 1529 on the island of Cres and pursued studies in Padua before emerging as a leading Renaissance philosopher. He criticized the dominance of Aristotelian thought and presented his own framework in the multi-volume Nova de universis philosophia. Patricius blended Platonic, Pythagorean, and emerging scientific ideas into a cohesive philosophical system. He also translated works of classical authors such as Plutarch into Italian, demonstrating his literary talents. His correspondence with scholars across Italy helped disseminate his radical ideas. Patricius died in 1597, remembered for his independent spirit and influence on early modern thought.

Filemon Lagman was a prominent Filipino political organizer, philosopher, and labor activist. He authored influential writings on revolutionary strategy and workers’ rights during the Marcos dictatorship. Lagman co-founded a Marxist-Leninist organization and led major strikes and urban poor mobilizations. After the People Power Revolution, he continued grassroots campaigns to empower marginalized communities. His intellectual and organizing efforts left a lasting impact on leftist politics in the Philippines.