Laguna Province, Philippines

Laguna derives its name from "La Laguna" (the lake), referring to Laguna de Bay, the largest inland body of water in the Philippines, which forms the province´s northern boundary. The province and surrounding areas were conquered by Spain in 1571. Seven years later, Franciscan friars started the work of Christianization. Soon, towns around the lake were founded. In 1678, San Pablo de los Montes (now San Pablo City) was established. The town of Bay was the capital of the province until 1688, when it was transferred to Pagsanjan and later in 1852, to Sta. Cruz. Laguna was one of the first eight provinces to rise in revolt against Spain. The town of Calamba is the birthplace of the country's national hero, Dr. Jose Percival Rizal.

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