Julia and Tenong are deeply in love and plan to marry. However, their happiness is shattered when Spanish friars and Guardia Civil accuse Tenong of being a Katipunero (revolutionary). Tenong is forced to flee to avoid arrest and execution. His mother, Tandang Kiko, fakes his death to protect him. Believing Tenong is dead, a heartbroken Julia is pressured by her mother, Tandang Kiko, and the local friar, Padre Ireneo, to marry Miguel, a wealthy but cruel man loyal to the Spanish church.

Walang Sugat (No Wounds or No Scar) Author: Severino Reyes Genre: Zarzuela (Tagalog musical drama) Historical Context: Written in 1898 (or 1902, sources vary) during the transition from Spanish to American colonial rule. It is a nationalist piece that critiques Spanish friar abuse during the Philippine Revolution. Summary of the Play The story is set in the town of Malabon, Philippines, during the final years of Spanish colonization (circa 1896-1898). It follows the tragic romance between Julia and Tenong against a backdrop of revolution and religious hypocrisy.

The wedding between Julia and Miguel is about to take place. Julia remains grief-stricken, believing Tenong is dead. Suddenly, Tenong returns in disguise, having survived the war. He reveals himself to Julia, and the two reunite in joy. Miguel discovers them, and a fight ensues. Tenong is forced to flee again. The friars and Spanish authorities intensify their search for him, accusing him of sedition.