121587 (2024)

The voyage reached the California coast on October 18, 1587, at a latitude of 35.5 degrees North.

In October 1587, history was made on the shores of California when the first Filipinos landed at Morro Bay. The Expedition of the Esperanza 121587

On July 12, 1587, the Spanish galleon , commanded by Pedro de Unamuno , set sail from Macau. The crew consisted of Spaniards and Philippine Indios , along with three Franciscan friars. Their mission was twofold: to find the mythical islands of "Rica de Oro" and "Rica de Plata" and to transport Chinese goods to New Spain. Landing at Morro Bay The voyage reached the California coast on October

: They encountered local indigenous groups and offered food and clothing as peace offerings. The crew consisted of Spaniards and Philippine Indios

: Two Filipinos, armed with swords and shields, were the first to step ashore as part of a scout formation.

Today, this event is recognized as the earliest documented presence of Filipinos in what is now the continental United States. A monument at Morro Bay marks the spot of the landing, predating the arrival of the Pilgrims at Plymouth Rock by 33 years.