Bago City launches book honoring revolutionary Juan Araneta

BACOLOD CITY – The Bago City government in Negros Occidental has launched a children’s book highlighting the courage, ingenuity and contributions of Gen. Juan Anacleto Araneta to the 1898 revolution against Spanish colonial rule.

Titled “Ang Kanyon ni Juan,” the illustrated book introduces young readers to Bago City’s history through a conversation between a father and son.

Mayor Marina “Mayette” Javellana-Yao led the book launch at the Bago City Community Center on Nov. 5 as part of the city’s 128th Al Cinco de Noviembre celebration, themed “Our Heroes’ Valor, Our People’s Progress, Our Legacy of Freedom.”

Written by Don del Castillo and illustrated by Julienne Castillo, the book is a collaborative project of the Bago City Sangguniang Kabataan Federation and the Department of Education (DepEd) Schools Division of Bago City.

“This book is our collective gift to generations of Bagonhons yet to come,” the mayor said.

Javellana-Yao expressed hope that future generations would grow up embracing the same bravery, courage and love of country demonstrated by Araneta and the people who fought alongside him.

“May we read this book to our children. Leave a little time to tell a story of your own. Tell them what Bago was like at your age, what it was after and what to look forward to,” she added.

She also expressed hope that Bagonhons, wherever they may be in the world, would continue to carry a deep sense of pride and love for their hometown.

The book forms part of the city’s efforts to preserve its revolutionary heritage and introduce local history to younger generations through accessible educational materials.

Remembering the Negros Revolution

Negrense revolutionaries led by Gens. Aniceto Lacson and Juan Araneta rose against Spanish colonial rule in November 1898, culminating in the surrender of Spanish forces in Negros Occidental on Nov. 6.

The uprising, which involved revolutionary forces from Silay, Bago and other communities, marked a historic turning point in the island’s struggle for freedom and self-governance.

The Negros Revolution led to the establishment of a revolutionary government that subsequently became known as the Cantonal Republic of Negros.

The short-lived government later came under American control as the United States expanded its colonial rule over the Philippines in 1899.

Negros was eventually incorporated into the American-administered Philippine Islands under the civil government established in 1901.

Known among Negrenses as Cinco de Noviembre, Nov. 5 is officially observed as a special nonworking holiday in Negros Occidental under Republic Act 6709.

The annual commemoration honors the courage, unity and resourcefulness of the Negrense revolutionaries who fought to end Spanish rule.

Cannon competition celebrates revolutionary ingenuity

Among the highlights of Bago City’s 128th Al Cinco de Noviembre celebration was the annual Sigabong sang mga Kanyon Competition, which recreates the ingenuity associated with the revolutionary uprising.

The competition featured performances evaluated for historical relevance, authenticity, showmanship, artistry and creativity in interpretation, sustained cannon blasts, loudness and overall impact.

The tradition recalls how Negrense revolutionaries used improvised cannons and other makeshift weapons to deceive Spanish forces about the strength of their resistance.

The competition remains an important feature of Bago City’s annual celebration, connecting present-day cultural performances with the province’s revolutionary past.

Gov. Eugenio Jose Lacson also paid tribute to the heroes of the revolution while recognizing the contributions of modern-day heroes who serve their communities.

“You can always be a hero. May it be a frontliner in times of calamities or just doung a good deed to a neighbor,” he said.

Vice Gov. Jose Benito Alonso, meanwhile, underscored the significance of Cinco de Noviembre as a defining moment that shaped the identity and destiny of Negros Occidental.

He emphasized that the revolution’s legacy extended beyond its military victory, demonstrating the power of unity, conviction and collective determination in overcoming challenges.

Alonso called on Negrenses to honor their ancestors by working toward a province where justice is accessible, opportunities are shared and no one is left behind.

Meanwhile, Silay City also commemorated the 128th anniversary of the Cinco de Noviembre Revolution, honoring the courage, unity and patriotism of the Negrenses who played significant roles in the province’s history.

Through the book launch and commemorative activities, Bago City hopes to keep the story of the Negros Revolution alive and inspire younger generations to preserve the values of courage, unity and service to their communities.