THE City Government of San Fernando through the City Tourism Office, together with private sector representatives Saturday, August 11, 2018, commemorated the 165th birth anniversary of local hero Tiburcio Hilario at Heroes Hall here.

Ernesto Hilario, descendant of the hero, hoped that the new generation will be aware of the ideals of the late governor had, which is to protect the independence and freedom of Kapampangans and Filipinos at all costs.

Mayor Edwin Santiago said that Hilario is a model to all Kapampangans since he was able to preserve liberty in the province and provide human rights.

“Hilario serves as a model for all because of the good deeds and sacrifices he has done for the country and his hometown,” Santiago said.

During the Spanish colonization, Hilario was visited by Jose Rizal who formed a friendship and trust with Hilario to take care of his writings and books. Because of this, Hilario’s life was put in danger as he was imprisoned in Bacolor with his brother Cecilio. Hilario then urged his cousin, Marcelo H. del Pilar, to leave for Spain to avoid arrest and imprisonment.

Hilario, being a democratic processes believer, law professor, and a lawyer, is now known as the brains of the revolutionary movement in Pampanga. An appointed Iloilo representative, he was elected as the revolutionary governor of Pampanga by town presidents.

Hilario died on February 18, 1903, due to his illness “scarlatine” or scarlet fever, the only one recorded in Philippine medical history.