Aklan Honors Heroes and Patriots

Re-enactment of the martyrdom and patriotism of Gen. Francisco Del Castillo

and the XIX Martyrs of Aklan

The Province of Aklan and the Ati-Atihan Town of Kalibo "profoundly com-memorated the 112th Martyrdom Anniversary of Gen. Francisco Del Castillo and the 19 Martyrs of Aklan on March 23.

Early in the morning of Monday, March 23, tolling of church bells in all the Catholic churches in Aklan was done. A mass offering for the 19 Martyrs and Patriots of Aklan was held in Saint John the Baptist Cathedral, Kalibo.
After the Holy Mass, there were floral offerings in the monuments of Dr. Jose Rizal, Andres Bonifacio, Pastor Martelino, Gil Mijares, Death Markers of Francisco Del Castillo and the 19 Martyrs.

The Civic Military Parade followed composed of five (5) groups of 113 contingents. The parade, one of the longest, lasted for two hours.

The commemorative program followed after the parade where the bravery and heroism of the 19 Martyrs, Gen. Castillo and other Aklan Patriots were extolled highly deserving of utmost respect and emulation.
Kalibo Mayor Raymar A. Rebaldo delivered his words of welcome to the guests, descendants of the 19 Martyrs, and visitors.

Former Congressman of Aklan, Atty. Allen S. Quimpo delivered, in behalf of Cong. Florencio T. Miraflores, his message who was unable to attend the celebration. Likewise, Hon. Selwyn Ibarreta delivered, in behalf of Aklan Provincial Gov. Carlito S. Marquez, who was also unable to attend the Commemorative Program.

Vice Governor Gabrielle V. Calizo who was to raise the Provincial banner with Gov. Marquez was also unable to attend.

The invited Comme-morative Speaker, Hon. Cerge M. Remonde, Press Secretary has also failed to honor the invitation. Remonde was quite busy in Malacañang because of the arrival and visit of Hon. Tony Blair, former Prime Minister of the United Kingdom.

The 12th IB, 3rd ID, Philippine Army fired the 21 gun salutes while the Explorer Club of Kalibo played the Taps.

Vice Mayor Nilda B. Tambong of Kalibo delivered the words of thanks. Hon. Jay E. Tejada and Ms. Adorada T. Reynaldo were the commemorative hosts of the program. /MP