Punong Ginoong Gorgonio with Punong Ginang Cleotilde

Punong Ginoong Gorgonio Chávez Contreras (1885–1969) was a direct descendant of the ancient Maginoo of Bulalacao (Mait), inheriting a lineage whose authority predated the Spanish conquest. Raised within the traditions of the Principalia, he grew up at a time of enormous transformation, born under the final decades of Spanish colonial rule and coming of age during the American colonial era. Through these shifting political worlds, he remained a steadfast embodiment of the customs, discipline, and dignity expected of a Maginoo.

Deeply respected throughout Bulalacao and throughout Mindoro, Punong Ginoong Gorgonio was regarded as an arbiter of disputes and a person of unquestioned integrity. Community members sought his judgment because he upheld the old codes of conduct: strict, principled, rooted in honor, and insisted that all matters be resolved in a way that preserved harmony, fairness, and ancestral values.

During the Japanese occupation of the Philippines in World War II, his courage became legendary. When reports of Japanese soldiers bayoneting infants reached Bulalacao, fear swept the community. Punong Ginoong Gorgonio himself had infants in his family, yet he refused to show fear or submission. A major cattle rancher owning more than 1,000 head of cattle, he was approached by Japanese forces demanding his livestock. Standing firm, he declared that they could take whatever cattle they wished so long as no one in Bulalacao was harmed. His defiance and steady resolve earned reluctant respect from the Japanese command, and they agreed. Through this act of leadership and sacrifice, he protected the people of Bulalacao and saved hundreds of lives.

Punong Ginoong Gorgonio Chávez Contreras is remembered as a leader and guardian of his people, a preserver of Maginoo tradition, and a man whose courage, discipline, and dignity sheltered an entire community in its darkest hour.