Rajah Humabon, the ruler of Cebu, a thriving trading post and settlement since the 10th century, was known as Hamabar. Humabad was another name for him. According to the National Historical Commission of the Philippines, Humabon was regarded as the “wisest and bravest man on the island” of Sugbu (Cebu), the “king and lord over eight chieftains and over 2,000 lancers”.
When the Armada de Molucca led by explorer Ferdinand Magellan arrived in Cebu in 1521, Humabon was the chieftain. Antonio Pigafetta, the expedition’s chronicler, described him as a short and fat man with his face painted with fire in various patterns. Plaza Hamabar, located across the Archdiocese of Cebu Museum on Mabini St., was built in his honor.
