ZAMBOANGA CITY–The city government on Friday celebrated the “Dia de Gen. Vicente Alvarez” in honor of Zamboanga’s own revolutionary hero.
Mayor Maria Isabelle Climaco-Salazar together with local government officials and family of the late Alvarez led the commemorative program, which kicked off with a mass at 6:30 a.m. at the Fort Pilar Shrine.
The relatives of Alvarez present during the program were the following: Fe Alvarez; Georgina Alvarez-Delos Reyes; Samuel Alvarez; Sheila Alvarez-Yaung; Douglas Alfonso; Genaro Alvarez Sr.; Jued Alvarez; and, Benjie Alvarez.
The mass was followed by the wreath-laying ceremony at the Plaza Vicente S. Alvarez at the corner of Don Pablo Lorenzo, Zaragoza, and Gen. Alvarez Streets.
A Neo-Ethnic Dance Competion capped the commemorative program at 8 a.m. at the City Hall grounds.
Salazar has called on the present generation to emulate the heroism, patriotism and dedication of this city’s revolutionary hero, Alvarez.
Salazar also call on Zamboangueños (Christians, Muslims and Lumads) to stay united, valiant and firm in rooting lawless elements out of this city.
Once again, the undefeated champion, Western Mindanao State University’s (WMSU) Jambangan Dance Company, won for three years in a row, while Sinag Tala Performing Arts of Southern City Colleges and Bailes of Ayala National High School placed second and third, respectively.
Every year, this city celebrates the “Dia de Gen. Vicente Alvarez” on May 18 as mandated by City Ordinance 334.
It marks the day when Alvarez led the fight for sovereignty resulting to the surrender of Spanish forces led by Governor-General Diego de los Rios on May 18, 1899 at Fort Pilar.
The observance is intended to drum up awareness on the contributions and the heroism of Alvarez.
Alvarez was born in April 5, 1862 as the fifth child to Don Alejo Alvarez and Isidora Solis in Magay, this city.
Alvarez died in Labason, Zamboanga del Norte on November 4, 1942, leaving a legacy as revolutionary leader who fought foreign occupation in Zamboanga and in the Philippines. (PNA)
