Ruperto Montinola

Ruperto Benedicto Montinola (March 18, 1869 – February 10, 1940) was a Filipino lawyer and politician. He was referred to as "Colossus of the South" in the Philippine press.

Early life Ruperto Montinola was born on March 18, 1869, in Bago, Negros Occidental to Juan Montinola and Martina Benedicto. He received his Bachelor of Laws degree from the University of Santo Tomas in 1894. In 1897, he joined the Philippine Revolution against Spain. In 1900, Montinola was appointed the first public prosecutor (fiscal) of Iloilo, but resigned in 1903 due to health problems and went to Japan to recuperate. He returned to the Philippines in 1905.

Political career

In 1908 he was appointed governor of Iloilo after his predecessor Benito Lopez was assassinated. Shortly afterwards he was re-elected in his own right and served until 1912. He later served as governor again from 1922 to 1925. at the age of 70. He was buried in Jaro cemetery.

Personal life He was married to Basa Benedicto and had six children with her: Aurelio, Remedios, Otilla, Maria, Vicente and Gloria.