THE recognition of the five outstanding Negrenses, including an organization, as well as the centenarians, highlighted the commemoration of the 120th Cinco de Noviembre in Negros Occidental Monday, November 5.

They were recognized for their outstanding and exemplary achievements in their respective fields.

This year’s recipients of the Pasidungog Award, which is the highest accolade given by the Provincial Government to Negrenses, are Cherrie Atilano for sustainable agri-tourism, Jeanette Patindol for academe and literature, Roberto Montelibano for business and entrepreneurship, Olivia Yanson for humanitarian works, and Negros Occidental Historical Council Inc. for history and culture.

Leading the awarding rites at the Provincial Capitol Social Hall in Bacolod City Monday night, November 5, were Governor Alfredo Marañon Jr. and Vice Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson.

Marañon said these modern day heroes should be emulated.

Meanwhile, a Tableau Presentation of the 1898 Cinco de Noviembre Revolution was also performed by the University of St. La Salle and Maskara Theatre Ensemble.

Cinco de Noviembre is being celebrated in Negros Occidental every November 5 as the day the Negrenses bluffed the Spaniards to attain their freedom.