NEGROS Occidental Governor Eugenio Jose Lacson reminded everyone of the Negrenses patriotism that liberated Negros.

Lacson led the Cinco de Noviembre celebration at the Provincial Capitol Lagoon in Bacolod City, Tuesday morning, November 5.

In his speech, Lacson said in every nation there is a story to tell and in the Philippines, since it’s an archipelago, every island has its own story too.

For Negrenses, Lacson said Cinco de Noviembre is the island’s story and pointed out its uniqueness from other wars, wherein it was won with a bluff.

“Today, we remember the patriotism, bravery, courage, the grit and the extraordinary strategy of General Juan Araneta and General Aniceto Lacson in leading thousands of Negrenses in this most historic bloodless revolt to freedom,” Lacson said.

The governor said Cinco de Noviembre is a testimony of the Negrense people are capable of doing to fight for what is rightfully ours.

He also recalled how the revolt was won through the use of fake arms made up of Nipa stalks and Bamboo mats as cannons which he pointed out still amazes both the story teller and the listener.

Aside from the festivities, Lacson also honored the Negrense centenarians, whom he called the true Negrense treasure as they serve as the bridge between the past and the future.

Present in the celebration were Board Members Agustin Ernesto Bascon, Manuel Frederick Ko, Victor Javellana, Jeffrey Tubola, and Sixto Guanzon, Provincial Administrator lawyer Rayfrando Diaz, members of the Philippine National Police, Philippine Army, civil society organizations and non-government organizations.

This day is celebrated to commemorate the Negrenses’ revolt against the Spanish colonizers - a historic bluff that freed Negros from Spaniards, Lacson said.