The fleet’s first contact with natives from the other side of the world was not a peaceful one. After sighting the fleet, the Chamorros of Guam swarmed the ships and ran away with everything that was not bolted to the deck, including the Trinidad’s skiff. In retaliation, Magellan ordered a violent reprisal. The resulting dead villagers and burnt homes were compounded by a ghastly name for the island that would endure for many years: Isla de los Ladrones (“Island of Thieves”). Still desperate for supplies, the fleet continued sailing to the west. On March 16th, 1521, the fleet sighted modern-day Philippines, anchoring soon after at Homonhon. For the scurvy-stricken crew, local hospitality was a lifeline: islanders traded palm wine, fish, and coconuts, confirming spices grew in the region. Yet the relief was joined by worrisome news. Astronomer Andrés de San Martín measured longitude and concluded they were already within Portugal’s hemisphere—meaning the coveted Moluccas belonged not to Spain but to its rival. The expedition had proven the western route to Asia existed, but its geopolitical value was in jeopardy.