Rajah Soliman (also Sulaiman) III was the last native Muslim king of Maynila, a Kapampangan and Tagalog kingdom on the southern delta of the Pasig River which would later be the site of the capital of the Philippines, Manila.

RAJAH SOLIMAN III

Rajah Soliman III, had been ceded authority over Manila by his aging uncle Rajah Matanda. When the Spanish arrived in Manila Bay in 1570 they tried to establish authority peaceably by sending a message of friendship to Manila. Soliman was willing to accept the friendship that the Spaniards were offering, but did not want to submit sovereignty. As a result, the Spaniards attacked Manila, captured the city, and burned it down before returning to Panay. In 1571, the Spaniards returned, this time led by Legazpi. Rajah Soliman eventually acknowledged Spanish rule, and was converted to Catholicism. Legazpi then recognized him as a ruler of Manila under the dominion of Spain. With this recognition came an exemption from tribute and forced labour (which their families enjoyed until 1884).

After Rajah Matanda died, Rajah Soliman formally ascended to his uncle's position. Legazpi gave Rajah Soliman the throne of Manila in April 1572. When Legazpi died in 1572, his successor did not honor the agreements with Rajah Soliman and sequestered his properties. In response, Rajah Soliman, together with Rajah Lakan Dula headed a native revolt in the northern town of Navotas in 1574. This is often referred to as the "Manila Revolt of 1574" and, since it involved naval forces, is also known as the "First Battle of Manila Bay".

Much of his research dealt with parasites that caused heart failure and their effects on the other parts of the human body. He also undertook research on the causes and prevention of malaria.

Africa discovered four human flukes that attach themselves to the heart, resulting in disease and eventually, death. This discovery was hailed as a significant contribution to medical science, as it greatly benefited heart patients.

Dr Africa died in the battle of the liberation of Manila.

1558

to 1575