[2][3][4] The revolution in Cuba led by Antonio Maceo Grajales inspired Philippine insurgents to revolt as well.

Being the last important colony under control of Spain, the Spanish government tried to contain the Philippine Revolution under the administration of Ramon Blanco, Marquess of Peña Plata.

When the Philippine revolution broke out in August 1896, Polavieja was appointed second corporal and served as Blanco's second-in-command.

The Filipino historian Gregorio Zaide notes that Polavieja was installed with the help of powerful Spanish friars including the archbishop of Manila during that time.

He began repression in the form of deportations accompanied by promises of pardons and trials, many of these ending in capital punishment.

Under Polavieja's direction, military operations began as soon as reinforcements arrived, and they actively pursued the rebels in their mountain bases.

He had scarcely reconquered half of Cavite when he resigned, owing to disagreements with superiors in Madrid and his bad health.

While visiting Girona, circulars were distributed among the crowd bearing Rizal's last verses, his portrait, and the charge that Polavieja was responsible for the loss of the Philippines to the United States.