Legazpi’s Voyage: AnonymoUS Narrative, Attributed to Fr. Martin Rada, Dated May 1565

Levesque, Rodrigue (1992). "Legazpi's Voyage: AnonymoUS Narrative, Attributed to Fr. Martin Rada, Dated May 1565". History of Micronesia: A Collection of Source Documents. Volume 2, Prelude to Conquest, 1561-1595. Gatineau, Quebec: Éditions Lévesque. pp. 148–170. ISBN 0-920201-02-4.

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Abstract: Presents an anonymous narrative, believed to be written by Fr. Martín Rada, combining religious reflection with technical observations from Legazpi’s 1565 voyage. Notes disagreements between Fr. Urdaneta and the official pilots, with Urdaneta later proven correct. Describes the discovery of several islands and their inhabitants, commenting on canoes (or proa), fish hooks, and the mixed character of interactions with local populations.

Highlights an episode at Mejit, where Urdaneta acted as interpreter ashore. Records other encounters at different islands, with attention to the craftsmanship of canoes and the barter of goods, particularly the exchange of iron nails. Interactions alternated between friendly trade and violence, including an attack on a Spanish soldier and the capture of an islander, who was treated well to encourage the return of a stolen arquebus.

Notes the distinctive construction of local houses raised on stone pillars, remarking on the skill of builders despite limited tools. Mentions proposals for colonizing Guam, which Legazpi rejected in obedience to his orders to proceed to the Philippines. The account closes by reflecting the difficulties of navigation and the cultural exchanges that characterized the expedition.