BACOLOD City – Negros Occidental is observing a special non-working holiday today, November 5, to commemorate the 128th anniversary of Cinco de Noviembre, the historic bloodless uprising of Negrenses against Spanish colonial rule in 1898.
The annual observance honors the bravery, unity, and patriotism of thousands of Negrenses who took part in the revolt that led to the surrender of Spanish forces in the province.
On November 5, 1898, local leaders and their followers staged a coordinated uprising using improvised weapons and strategies that convinced Spanish authorities that they were facing a well-equipped revolutionary force.
The historic event, also known as the Negros Revolution, became a defining moment in the province’s struggle for freedom and remains an enduring symbol of Negrense courage and solidarity.
The holiday is observed pursuant to Republic Act No. 6709, which declares November 5 of every year a special non-working day in Negros Occidental.
The commemoration also provides residents an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices of their forebears and strengthen their appreciation of the province’s history and cultural identity.
Meanwhile, officials and employees of the Negros Occidental provincial government gathered for a commemorative Holy Mass on November 4 to honor the victims of Typhoon Tino and remember the devastation it brought to the province last year.
The Eucharistic celebration was held at the Social Hall of the Provincial Capitol Building, bringing together department heads and employees to pray for those who lost their lives and families whose properties and livelihoods were affected by the typhoon.
The religious service also provided an opportunity to reflect on the tragedy, recognize the resilience of affected communities, and pray for their continued healing and recovery.
Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson said the Mass served as an occasion to remember those who perished during the typhoon and reflect on the lessons brought by the disaster.
Provincial Administrator Atty. Rayfrando P. Diaz II, meanwhile, emphasized the importance of unity and sustained support for families affected by the calamity.
The gathering underscored the provincial government’s continuing solidarity with affected Negrenses and the need to strengthen community resilience against natural disasters./PN
