By Dominique Gabriel G. Bañaga

Negros Occidental Governor Alfredo Marañon, Jr. led the annual Al Cinco de Noviembre observance, which commemorates the 1898 Negros Revolution, at the Provincial Capitol yesterday.

The governor offered his appreciation for past Negrense leaders, noting, “There are still people who are not yet free from the bondage of poverty,” but said, “The provincial government is doing its best to combat poverty.”

In addition, 31 centenarians, or those who have reached the age of 100, were each awarded P100,000 from the provincial government, along with a Negros Occidental Comprehensive Health Program card and plaque.

Pasidungog 2018 was also held at the Capitol Social Hall, which awarded outstanding Negrenses in different categories.

Among those recognized include Olivia Yanson for humanitarian work, Cherrie de Erit Atilano for sustainable agri-tourism, Jeannette Patindol for academe and literature, Robert Montelibano for business and entrepreneurship, and the Negros Historical Council Incorporated for history and culture./DGB, WDJ