The seeds of revolution have been taking root in the Philippines as the Cry of Pugad Lawin in 1896 marked the start of resistance against Spanish colonial rule; the Filipino nationalists are finding obstacle after obstacle for their independence. This committee takes place as the Spanish-American war draws to a close and the Treaty of Paris is being negotiated in 1898 where a group of Filipino nationalists are debating the destiny of the fledgling state of the Philippines.

The Spanish-American War draws to a close as what seems to be an American victory. In 1898, Spanish Captain-General Jaudenes surrendered and U.S. General Merritt formally accepted the surrender declaring the Philippines under American occupation. But beneath the flags and treaties, tensions simmer. Filipino revolutionaries, having fought for independence from Spain, now find themselves betrayed—transferred like property under the Treaty of Paris from one imperial power to another. With the Spanish collapsing, the Americans asserting control, and revolutionaries refusing to be silenced, the archipelago sits on the edge of explosive uncertainty. Competing visions of power, nationhood, and loyalty will collide as generals, revolutionaries, politicians, and foreign observers all fight to shape the fate of the Philippines. Will it become a pawn of empire, or the cradle of the something new?