Rafael Basco

Rafael Basco De Chavez y Capillo, known colloquially as Raki, is a columnist with the Diario del Imperio, Kawit Cavite Regiment Commissioned Officer, and formerly the 13th Ministro Mariskal of the Empire. He is also a former member of the United People's Labour Party of the Philippines (UPLP), before joining and leaving National Expansionist Asiatic People's Party (NEAPP) and is currently in Partido ng Makabayang Sosyalista (MASO).
== Early Years ==
===== Youthful Days =====
Rafael 'Raki' Basco De Chavez y Capillo, born on November 6, 1850, in the picturesque rural hamlet of Baryo Morong in Mariquina's (Marikina) region, was raised amidst the captivating beauty of nature. His parents, Fabio De Chavez y Emilio, a Spanish Peninsular, and Quinta Lore Adiong Capillo, a stunning Indio woman, instilled in him the values of humility and simplicity from a young age. 
During his youth, Rafael embraced his role as the family's paperboy, traversing the village of Chorillo, delivering newspapers with a charismatic smile that captured the hearts of many. Despite his family's wealth, his parents believed in providing him with a grounded upbringing, teaching him the importance of hard work and compassion for others. Rafael's father, Fabio, who was revered for his modesty, tragically passed away in 1862 due to illness. This event would shape Rafael's character, cultivating a deep sense of responsibility and loyalty that would define him in the years to come.
===== Adolescent Days =====
As he transitioned into adolescence, Rafael, known affectionately as Raki, displayed a compassionate spirit and harbored aspirations for a simple yet meaningful life. In 1867, Raki enrolled at the Ateneo Municipal de Manila, where he crossed paths with a young Japanese national named Kaito Katsuhito. The two became fast friends and shared many formative experiences together. It was also during this time that Raki encountered Hanabi Katsuhito, Kaito's sister, who would later become his wife.
After completing his medical education in 1870, Raki made a conscious decision not to employ his skills for personal gain but instead devoted himself to the cause of independence from Spain's oppressive authority. He joined the Calleja Revolutionaries, who sought to liberate the Philippines from colonial rule. It was during this period that Raki married Hanabi Katsuhito, symbolizing the beginning of his role as a devoted spouse.Rafael & Hanabi's Ménage Photo (c. 1871)
== Serving the Imperial Army of the Philippines ==
Raki's entry into the Imperial Army of the Philippines on October 12, 1870, marked the start of his military service. He joined as a member of the esteemed Kawit Cavite Regiment (Rehimyento de Kawit Cavite), a prestigious unit within the Imperial Army. Over the years, Raki would rise through the ranks and develop a close bond with his future best friend, Lenin Juan Castillo.
Though his early military exploits were shrouded in obscurity until recently, Raki's dedication and bravery became evident through his involvement in various conflicts and campaigns. He participated in the Sabah Campaign of 1872, played a role in the Moro War and the Qing War, engaged in the Battle of Visakhapatnam, and notably distinguished himself in the Sulu Engagement. It was during this encounter that he narrowly escaped death at the hands of Sulu tribesmen, thanks to the heroic intervention of Lenin Juan Castillo. This incident forged an unbreakable bond between Raki and Lenin, surprising many with their courageous and protective gestures towards their fellow Filipinos.
In recognition of his exceptional conduct and unwavering discipline, Raki was bestowed with the distinguished rank of Kabo (Non-Commissioned Officer) in 1875. His continued dedication to the Kawit Regiment led to further promotions, and today, he holds the esteemed position of Sarhento (and now, Tenyente) within the Regiment. As a result, Raki plays a crucial role in advancing the military endeavors of the Kawit Cavite Regiment, tirelessly working to protect and serve the Imperial State.
Rafael 'Raki' Basco De Chavez y Capillo's journey from his humble beginnings as a paperboy to his current position of responsibility and leadership in the Imperial Army of the Philippines exemplifies his unwavering commitment to his country and his people. His youthful days and adolescent experiences have shaped him into a compassionate and ambitious individual who strives for a better future, both for himself and for the Philippines he holds dear.
Rafael Basco in Imus, Cavite, 1872
== Diario del Imperio ==
Established in 1856, Diario del Imperio is a prestigious newspaper company that has been an integral part of the De Chavez family's legacy. It was originally acquired by Rafael's father, Fabio De Chavez, who recognized the power of the press in shaping public opinion and disseminating information. 
Following the untimely death of Fabio in 1862, the responsibility of managing and running the family company fell upon Rafael's mother, Quinta. She took on the role with determination and skill, ensuring that Diario del Imperio continued to flourish under her guidance. The company's headquarters, located in the vibrant district of Chorillo in Barangka, served as the hub of journalistic excellence and free expression.
Rafael and his brother, Jesus, grew up in an environment permeated by the journalistic pursuits of the De Chavez family. They were actively involved in recording and documenting current events within and outside the Imperial Army, which they would pass on to their dedicated team of printing staff. The De Chavez Printing, closely affiliated with Diario del Imperio, played a crucial role in supporting their journalistic objectives.
During the turbulent times of the Calleja Revolt, the Captaincy General recognized the credibility and trustworthiness of the De Chavez Printing. With a vision to inspire confidence among Filipinos, the printing company was initially tasked with countering Spanish propaganda. However, as the revolution gained momentum and success, the De Chavez Printing pivoted its allegiance and became a potent force in disseminating anti-Spanish sentiment.
Diario del Imperio became a vital platform for spreading revolutionary propaganda and providing crucial information about the ongoing struggle against Spanish oppression. The newspaper chronicled the heroic deeds of Filipino revolutionaries, shedding light on the plight of the Filipino people and their unwavering determination for independence.
The De Chavez family's unwavering commitment to the cause of the Calleja Revolt made Diario del Imperio a trusted source of news and a beacon of hope for the Filipino populace. The newspaper's journalistic integrity and dedication to truth became instrumental in uniting the Filipino community and fostering a spirit of resistance against colonial rule.
Throughout its history, Diario del Imperio has remained steadfast in its mission to uphold the values of journalistic integrity, championing the rights of the Filipino people, and providing a voice to the voiceless. It has evolved into a symbol of the indomitable spirit of the Filipino press, playing a pivotal role in shaping public discourse and promoting social progress within the empire.
Diario del Imperio continues to be a respected institution, documenting the triumphs and challenges of the Imperial State and the wider world. Its enduring legacy as a bastion of truth and a catalyst for change stands as a testament to the De Chavez family's unwavering commitment to the power of the written word and the pursuit of justice.
== Political Career ==
Rafael's political career has been characterized by intriguing twists and turns, capturing the attention and curiosity of the public. Throughout his journey, he has been associated with different political parties, each representing his evolving beliefs and principles. 
Initially, Rafael aligned himself with the United People's Labour Party of the Philippines (UPLP), a party that championed democratic change and emphasized the importance of individual rights and freedom of expression. Joining the UPLP in 1873, he saw it as a vehicle for advocating for a more open society where the voices of the Filipino people could be heard. During this period, Rafael continued to promote the values of democracy while maintaining his active involvement in the Imperial Army and pursuing his journalistic ventures. 
However, circumstances within the UPLP and the shifting political landscape led Rafael to reevaluate his party affiliation. As the party became fractured and its direction unclear, he made the decision to switch to an Expansionist ideology and practice. With his belief in the empire's potential for growth and prosperity, Rafael joined the MASO party, aligning himself with a faction that sought to establish newer policies and laws to benefit the Filipino people.
After gaining valuable experience in the UPLP and later the MASO party, Rafael entered the realm of the Imperial Government, specifically the Kamara (Imperial Assembly). It was during a glitch in the election process that Rafael found himself appointed to the esteemed position of the 4th Minister of Foreign Affairs. Despite not receiving a single vote, it was recognized that his omission from the electoral process was an error, granting him the opportunity to assume the role.
Rafael embraced this unexpected opportunity and embarked on a fruitful journey as the Minister of Foreign Affairs. With dedication and diplomacy, he navigated the complexities of international relations, representing the empire on the global stage. He played a crucial role in forging alliances, fostering diplomatic ties, and promoting the interests of the Filipino people abroad. 
During his tenure as the 4th Minister of Foreign Affairs, Rafael proved himself to be a capable and skilled statesman. His commitment to the empire's advancement and the well-being of its citizens earned him respect and admiration. His diplomatic endeavors laid the groundwork for future cooperation and cooperation with other nations, establishing a positive reputation for the empire on the international front. 
However, Rafael's ambitions and desire to effect change on a broader scale led him to explore new avenues of public service. Recognizing the need to address social issues and spearhead infrastructure development, he transitioned from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to become the 13th Ministro Mariskal of the Empire, representing under the MASO faction.
As the 13th Ministro Mariskal, Rafael played a pivotal role in the 5th Imperial Assembly (Kamara). He worked tirelessly with his fellow lawmakers to establish policies and laws that would enhance the lives of the Filipino people. His leadership and expertise in governance contributed to the creation of comprehensive reforms aimed at addressing societal inequalities, improving education and healthcare systems, and promoting economic growth throughout the empire.
Rafael's fruitful journey from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs to the esteemed position of the 13th Ministro Mariskal exemplifies his unwavering commitment to public service and his desire to effect positive change. His dedication to the welfare and progress of the Filipino people has left an indelible mark on the empire's history, making him a revered figure in the realm of politics and governance.
== Present Day ==
Rafael continued to live a traditional military life as a Commissioned Officer in the Rehimyento de Kawit Cavite, as well as a supporting partner for Hanabi, and eventually became pregnant in February 1876. Hanabi gave birth to their first child, a boy named Rafael Amadeo Yosef Lakandula Ward De Chavez y Katsuhito, on November 6, 1876, and he has been tended after ever since. In the upcoming years, Amadeo will marry Lenin Juan Castillo's daughter, Constantine Castillo.
== Controversies ==
* It was alleged that him, Lenin, Officer Guillermo and a few other personnel murdered locals while under the influence of liquor.
Category:Characters