ANTIQUE— The Province of Antique has launched a series of province-wide activities to commemorate the 40th death anniversary of former governor and local hero Evelio B. Javier, beginning with a symposium aimed at educating the public—particularly the youth—about his life, ideals, and legacy.
Dubbed “Paghanduraw sa Baganihan,” the symposium serves as a prelude to the February 11 commemoration and seeks to revisit the contributions of Javier, who is widely known by his initials “EBJ” or by his nickname “Beloy.”
Governor Paolo Javier said the program honors his uncle’s lifelong commitment to public service and truth.
“My uncle dedicated his life to the people of Antique. Through Paghanduraw sa Baganihan, we continue to remind ourselves that his advocacy for truth and service should be carried on,” the governor said.
According to Celestino Dalumpines IV, volunteer tourism coordinator of the Office of the Provincial Tourism Officer, the symposium is being conducted in partnership with the Department of Education to bring the program to schools across all 18 municipalities of the province.
Dalumpines said a recent study showed that 93 percent of respondents expressed interest in learning more about Evelio B. Javier, prompting the provincial government to initiate the educational campaign.
The symposium will begin in the municipalities of Anini-y and Tobias Fornier and will continue in other towns until March. Speakers include close friends and associates of the late governor, among them Engr. Bernie Salcedo, Engr. Efren Esclavilla, and Rodolfo J. Caberoy.
Each symposium will conclude with a stage theatrical presentation of “Pagpasad ka Binirayan,” which recounts the story of the ten Malay datus who fled Borneo, arrived in Antique, and established a settlement in Barangay Malandog, Hamtic. The production is among the cultural legacies associated with Javier’s leadership, alongside the Binirayan Festival.
The play will be performed by the Maragtas Team, composed of provincial government employees who have previously participated in the Binirayan Festival.
In keeping with Javier’s advocacy for sustainable development, tree-planting activities will also be conducted in selected schools, echoing the Antique Upland Development Program (AUDP), one of his landmark initiatives.
The commemoration will culminate on February 11 with a program marking the 40th death anniversary of Evelio B. Javier. Former Antique governor Sally Z. Perez and Senator Paolo Benigno “Bam” Aquino IV are among the expected guests.
Four decades after his death, Javier’s legacy continues to inspire public service, cultural pride, and the pursuit of democratic ideals among Antiqueños./PN
