World War II saw countless acts of courage and sacrifice, and among the many heroes of that global conflict stands Magdalena Estoista Leones, a Filipina intelligence officer known as the “Lioness of Luzon”.^{1 2} Her bravery and dedication earned her the prestigious Silver Star Medal from the United States, a testament to her extraordinary service during the Japanese occupation of the Philippines.

Early Years and Onset of War

Born Magdalena Estoista on August 19, 1920, in Lubuagan, Kalinga, Philippines, she grew up in a Protestant household in the Cordillera mountains, as the daughter of an evangelical missionary. She lived in Agoo, La Union,³ and became a deaconess of the United Evangelical Church. Before the war changed her world, Magdalena “dreamed of becoming a nun and serving alongside American missionaries”.^{4 5 6 7 8 9}

“World War II commenced for the United States and the rest of Asia when the Japanese bombed Pearl Harbor in Hawaii on December 7, 1941 (December 8 in Manila). Bombing of Manila followed nine hours later.  By 3 a.m., General Douglas MacArthur knew of the surprise attack on Pearl Harbor but…took no action.  As a result, slightly past noon, Japanese warplanes found most of the U.S. planes on the ground [in Manila]..Both raids provided the…opening salvo in Japan’s campaign to build the Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere and thus unite Asian countries under the Rising Sun.”¹⁰ Japan marketed the slogan “Asia for Asians!”¹¹

“A month after the bombing Pearl Harbor, the Japanese invaded and took control of the Philippines in a war that would last four years; with 57,000 killed, and 76,000 Americans and Filipinos forced to make the…Bataan Death March.  But the Filipinos fought back by forming guerilla units that sabotaged the Japanese, gathering intelligence used to counter attack and enabling the Americans to take back the Philippines.”¹²

Call to Arms

Magdalena experienced the brutality of the conflict immediately when the Japanese invaded the Philippines. She was captured and imprisoned. Though eventually released, she was forced to witness firsthand the slaughter of Filipinos. Seeing “the unimaginable deaths and anguish the Japanese exacted upon her countrymen, Magdalena became a guerrilla”.¹⁵

After Magdalena was “captured by the Japanese when Corregidor fell in May 1942,” she spent seven months in prison during which “she learned to speak their language”.¹⁶ She “taught herself how to speak Niponggo, a skill she utilized to help save the lives of other Filipinos captured by the Japanese”.^{17 18} Witnessing the execution of young people compelled her to take extreme risks. Though travel was prohibited, she would go “from one town to another”, where she “bravely talked to the Japanese, in their language, convincing them that they were just coming from a wedding, therefore saving their lives”.¹⁹ She eventually served as “an intelligence officer with the U.S. Army on the Philippines’ main island of Luzon,”²⁰ gathering information on enemy dispositions and conducting acts of sabotage, “at one point blowing up enemy planes at an airstrip”.²¹

Her dedication to the underground movement led her to Manila, where she connected with missionary friends from the Cosmopolitan Church who provided crucial support to guerrillas.²² However, a close call nearly ended her life when she received contact from a supposed Allied agent who was actually “a double agent working for the Japanese”. This fake operative “tasked Magdalena with finding and securing the whereabouts and names of the resistance to the North”.²³ While trying to accomplish this mission, Magdalena was apprehended by the real resistance forces, the USAFIP-NL [United States Army Forces in the Philippines – Northern Luzon], who mistakenly believed “she was the double agent”. Fortunately, she was investigated and “found innocent by Colonel Russel [sic] Volckman”. This apprehension inadvertently saved her life, as “If she had gone back to Manila, she would have been executed with her missionary friends who were identified by the fake MacArthur operative”.²⁴

“After encountering Colonel Russel [sic] Volckman of the USAFIP-NL, she agreed to serve as a special agent.  Using her church connections and her Niponggo-speaking skills, she was able to carry ‘important intelligence data, vital radio parts, and medical supplies’ through Japanese-held territory.  Through she knew that capture could result in torture and execution, she powered through and continued to serve her country, earning her the monicker of ‘the lioness of Filipino guerilla agents.”^{25 26}

Magdalena “exchanged intelligence among resistance leaders and procured medical supplies, under the nose of Japanese checkpoints…She even obtained information on enemy installations and dispositions from Manila to San Fernando, La Union.  She went as far as Bicol to get radio parts and technicians.”²⁷

“By the time she was 25 she had already been caught by the Japanese three times, with enough evidence against her to be convicted.  But through quick thinking and calmness, she was able to walk away free three times as well.  The last time, she escaped execution by sweet-talking and bribing a guard.”²⁸

MacArthur returned as promised after the Americans had regained control from the Japanese in 1944. World War II ended in the Philippines on September 2, 1945 when Japan surrendered.

The Silver Star Citation

“On July 18 1945, Col. [Russell] Volckmann, the man who offered her the position of a special agent, recommended that Magdalena be awarded the U.S. Silver Star.  Later in her life, she was also awarded the Philippine Liberation Medal, the Resistance Movement Medal, the World War II medal, and the Philippine Independence Ribbon.”²⁹

Magdalena’s bravery and effectiveness in intelligence gathering were remarkable. She navigated the treacherous landscape of occupied Manila, establishing a network of informants and successfully transmitting valuable information to the resistance and Allied forces. Her contributions were instrumental in several key operations. For her gallantry in action, she was awarded the Silver Star Medal by the United States, a recognition of her exceptional service and courage.

“The Silver Star is the third-highest military combat decoration that can be awarded to a member of the United States Armed Forces. It is awarded for gallantry in action:

• While engaged in action against an enemy of the United States;
• While engaged in military operations involving conflict with an opposing foreign force; or
• While serving with friendly foreign forces engaged in an armed conflict against an opposing armed force in which the United States is not a belligerent party.

Actions that merit the Silver Star must be such a high degree that they are above those required for all other U.S. combat decorations but do not merit award of the meet Medal of Honor or a Service Cross (Distinguished Service Cross, the Navy Cross, or the Air Force Cross).”³⁰

“At the age of twenty-five – Magdalena became the only Asian woman to be given the US Silver Star for her espionage field work and gallantry in action during World War II.”³¹

Headquarters, XIV Corps, General Orders No. 88 (October 22, 1945)

The President of the United States of America, authorized by Act of Congress July 9, 1918, takes pleasure in presenting the Silver Star to Corporal Magdalena Leones, United States Army, for gallantry in action as Special Agent, U.S. Army Force in the Philippines, North Luzon, in action at Luzon, Philippine Islands, from 27 February 1944 to 26 September 1944. During the period cited, Corporal Leones repeatedly risked her life to carry important intelligence data, vital radio parts and medical supplies through heavily garrisoned enemy-held territory. Although she knew that detection by the enemy would result in torture and execution, Corporal Leones fearlessly continued her perilous missions between guerrilla forces throughout Luzon with notable success. Through her intrepidity and skill as a special agent, Corporal Leones contributed materially to the early liberation of the Philippine Islands.”^{32 33 34}

Post War

“…unlike other Pinay amazons of the resistance who continued to bear arms and found positions in the new Philippine government or military, Magdalena chose a more traditional route for her future: to marry, have children, and put her espionage days behind her…Magdalena opted to immigrate to the United States with her family in 1969, settle in California and take on a career as a clerk for Pacific Bell…Magdalena rarely spoke of her past life as a resistance fighter and intelligence officer for the USAFIP-NL.  Her own children and grandchildren were kept in the dark much of their lives regarding their mother’s…time as a crucial underground agent of the resistance.”³⁵

Magdalena “moved to California from the Philippines in 1969, worked as a clerk at Pacific Bell, owned homes in Richmond and in San Jose and did not talk much about her war exploits.”^{36 37}

Veterans Benefits

“When the war began, President Roosevelt promised veterans benefits to non-Americans who served with U.S. military.  However, Congress reneged on that pledge through the Rescission Act of 1946, which specifically denied more than 200,000 Filipino soldiers of those benefits.”³⁸

“Nearly 63 years later, Congress granted single lump-sum payments of $15,000 each to those Filipinos who were or became U.S. citizens, and $9,000 each to non-US citizens who fought.  More than 48,000 applied for the payments.  Roughly 18,000 were approved.  Among those who received the higher amount – Magdalena Leones.”³⁹

Legacy

Magdalena Leones’ story is one of extraordinary courage, patriotism, and dedication. She risked her life to fight for freedom and played a crucial role in the Allied victory in the Philippines. Her recognition with the Silver Star Medal underscores the significance of her contributions and her bravery in the face of immense danger. She is remembered as a true heroine, the “Lioness of Luzon,” a symbol of Filipino resilience and resistance during World War II.

“On June 16th, 2016, Magdalena Leones passed away at the age of 95.” ⁴⁰ “As part of the memorial services due to World War II heroines, Magdalena’s body was flown to the Philippines in order to receive a full hero’s welcome, burial and send off in full military honors at the Hero’s Cemetery in Fort Bonifacio, to be with the other brave men and women who served their country.”^{41 42 43}

“Upon Leones’ death in Richmond [California] at [age] 96 in 2016, the City and County of San Francisco presented her family with a certificate of honor, recognizing her.”⁴⁴

On July 12, 2016, the Philippine Historical Association issued a Resolution Recognizing the Heroism of Magdalena Leones “…and to proliferate her life and deeds among its membership composed of teachers and historians.  And in doing so, they may be able to teach her inspiring story to the younger generation and to restore her as one of the known heroes of our nation.”⁴⁵

To Learn More

• Pacific Atrocities Education website.
• PINAY Guerrilleras: The Unsung Heroics of Filipina Resistance Fighters During the Pacific War by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas
• Amazons of the Huk Rebellion: Gender, Sex, and Revolution in the Philippines, by Vina A. Lanzona, The University of Wisconsin Press, 2009.
• Filipino Fighters who served under the American Flag during World War II, visit the website Duty to Country.
• YouTube “Xiao Time HD: Philippine Historical Association Kinilala si Magdalena Leones sa Isang Resolusyon” [In Filipino-Tagalog]
• YouTube “Xiao Narrates: Mapalad ang Inyong Mga Apo (aka Sulat Para kay Lolo at Lola Beterano) [In Filipino-Tagalog]

Footnotes

1. “5 Badass Women in Philippine History You Need to Know”, by Christian Tugonon, Sunstar.com,  March 7, 2024 ↩︎
2. Magdalena was also known as the “Lioness of Filipina Agents” according to “9 Kickass Women in Philippine History You’ve Never Heard Of”, FilipiKnow and Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 108. ↩︎
3. Hall of Valor by Military Times. ↩︎
4. “9 Kickass Women in Philippine History You’ve Never Heard Of”, FilipiKnow ↩︎
5. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
6. 5 Filipino Heroines Who Changed Philippine History” by Gaby Gloria, CNN Philippines, June 7, 2017 ↩︎
7. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 106. ↩︎
8. “Magdalena Leones” Duty to Country website. ↩︎
9. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
10. History of the Philippines: From Indios Bravos to Filipinos by Luis H. Francia, The Overlook Press, 2010, p. 179. ↩︎
11. Pilipinas A to Z, by Melchizedek Maraon Solis, Almaden Press, 1999. ↩︎
12. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
13. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 39. ↩︎
14. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 39. ↩︎
15. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 107. ↩︎
16. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
17. “5 Filipino Heroines Who Changed Philippine History” by Gaby Gloria, CNN Philippines, June 7, 2017 ↩︎
18. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
19. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
20.  “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
21. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
22. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
23. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 107. ↩︎
24. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
25. “5 Filipino Heroines Who Changed Philippine History” by Gaby Gloria, CNN Philippines, June 7, 2017 ↩︎
26. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
27. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
28. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
29. “Filipino WWII US Silver Star recipient to rest at Ligingan”, By Jun Nucum, Global National Inquirer, July 8, 2016 ↩︎
30. Military Awards for Valor – Top 3 U.S. Department of Defense, valor.defense.gov ↩︎
31. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019 ↩︎
32. Hall of Valor by Military Times. ↩︎
33. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
34. #VeteranOfTheDay Army Veteran Magdalena Leones, VA News, June 29, 2016 ↩︎
35. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 109. ↩︎
36. “Filipino WWII US Silver Star recipient to rest at Ligingan”, By Jun Nucum, Global National Inquirer, July 8, 2016 ↩︎
37. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
38. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023   ↩︎
39. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
40. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 110. ↩︎
41. Pinay Guerrilleras by Stacey Anne Baterina Salinas, Pacific Atrocities Education, January 15, 2019, p. 111. ↩︎
42. “Filipino WWII US Silver Star recipient to rest at Ligingan”, By Jun Nucum, Global National Inquirer, July 8, 2016 ↩︎
43. “Lioness of PHL Guerilla Spies Maggie Leones to be buried with full honors.” by Xiao Chua, GMA News Online, July 11, 2016. ↩︎
44. “Yes, Teacher, Grandma Really Was a Soldier, Spy, Guerilla, and Silver Star Recipient”,  by Jeff Jardine, CalVet Connect, March 14, 2023 ↩︎
45. Philippine Historical Association Resolution Recognizing the Heroism of Magdalena Leones, July 12, 2016 ↩︎