Gil Montilla

Gil Miranda Montilla (September 11, 1876 – July 20, 1946) was a Filipino politician and businessman who served as Speaker of the National Assembly from 1935 to 1938, and a member of the Philippine Senate from 1931 to 1935.

Early life
Montilla was born on September 11, 1876, in Hinigaran, Negros Occidental, to Domingo Montilla and Potenciana Miranda. He received his bachelor's degree from the Ateneo de Manila in 1896 and studied law at the University of Santo Tomas.

During the Philippine Revolution, he joined the revolutionary forces in Negros as a battalion commander in Binalbagan and Pulupandan. During the American occupation, he worked in Binalbagan as a teacher, subsequently becoming the town's secretary and president. He also engaged in business as a sugar planter and president of the Isabela Sugar Company.

National politics
Montilla was elected as representative to the Philippine Assembly, for the 3rd district of Negros Occidental from 1912 to 1919. He then served as governor of Negros Occidental; and Senator from the Eighth Senatorial District comprising Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, Antique and Palawan from 1931 to 1935. In 1935, he was elected as a member of the Commonwealth National Assembly from the 3rd District of Negros Occidental and was elected as the first Speaker of the Assembly, serving until 1938. He was then appointed by President Manuel Quezon to become head of the Philippine Sugar Administration. He later served as President of Quezon's Nacionalista Party.

Personal life and death
Montilla was married to Mercedes Miranda. He died on 20 June 1946.

Legacy
A barangay and high school in Sipalay is named after him.