• GILBERT P. BAYORAN
Negros Occidental marked the 128th anniversary of Cinco de Noviembre yesterday with local officials calling on Negrenses to preserve the legacy of the 1898 revolution and pass its story on to younger generations.
During the commemorative program at the Provincial Capitol Park and Lagoon, Vice Gov. Jose Benito Alonso underscored the historic uprising as a defining moment that shaped the identity and destiny of Negros Occidental.
Alonso recalled how the courage, ingenuity and resourcefulness of Negrense revolutionaries led to the surrender of Spanish forces in 1898 and the establishment of the short-lived Cantonal Republic of Negros.
He said the significance of Cinco de Noviembre went beyond the victory itself, emphasizing that the revolution demonstrated how unity, conviction and collective determination could overcome seemingly difficult challenges.
Alonso urged Negrenses to honor the sacrifices of their ancestors by building a province where justice is accessible, opportunities are shared and no one is left behind.
This year’s celebration carried the theme, “One Negros, One People, One History.”
Bago City Mayor Mayette Javellana-Yao highlighted the importance of bringing the story of Cinco de Noviembre closer to children through the launching of the illustrated book, “Ang Kanyon ni Juan.”
Javellana said the book project was a long-time dream that was finally realized under her administration, with the aim of introducing the younger generation to the courage and resourcefulness of their ancestors.
She described the publication as a meaningful tribute not only to the Araneta family and Bago City, but also to the historical figures who played significant roles in the Negros Revolution.
The 20-page illustrated children’s book tells the story of Tan Juan and his role in the historic uprising. Its writer is a Bagonhon and a descendant of Tan Juan, while the illustrations were also created by a local artist.
The project was undertaken in partnership with the Bago City SK Federation and the Department of Education’s Bago City Schools Division.
Javellana said the city also plans to present an animated version of the story to make it more engaging and accessible to children. Initial copies were distributed during the launching, with more copies to be printed.
She said the initiative seeks to help children understand why Bago celebrates Cinco de Noviembre and appreciate the bravery and sacrifices of their forebears.
The launching formed part of Bago City’s 128th Al Cinco de Noviembre celebration, which also featured the annual Sigabong sang mga Kanyon Competition.
Eight groups participated in the competition, including the Tricycle Drivers Association Alliance, Bago City College, Association of Barangay Captains, Bago City Market Vendors Association, Department of Education, Notre Dame of Bago City, Sigabong Eagles Club and I Tech.
Participants staged street parades and performances along the competition route, culminating in their final presentations at Bantayan Park.
The annual commemoration pays tribute to the November 5, 1898 uprising, when Negrense revolutionaries used ingenuity and improvised cannons to compel Spanish forces to surrender.
Similar commemorative activities were also held in the cities of Silay and Talisay. | GPB
