By CESAR JOLITO III

The Bago City government announced the postponement of all remaining activities for this year’s Al Cinco de Noviembre celebration in light of the widespread devastation caused by Typhoon “Tino.”

Mayor Mayette Javellana-Yao made the announcement, emphasizing that the decision was made out of respect and solidarity with residents affected by the typhoon’s aftermath.

“At this time, when many of our fellow Negrenses and Filipinos are facing the challenges of recovery and rebuilding, we deem it most fitting to pause our festivities and instead stand together in empathy, compassion and service,” Yao said in an official statement.

The mayor added that only the thanksgiving Mass and the flag-raising and wreath laying ceremony will push through, both rescheduled for November 10, to honor the heroism and unity that Al Cinco de Noviembre represents.

All other events will be moved to a later date once conditions stabilize and the community is ready to celebrate “with renewed hope and gratitude.”

The city government assured that proper announcements will be made once new schedules are set.

Yao urged Bagonhons to reflect on the deeper meaning of the celebration, underscoring that true commemoration lies not in festivity but in unity and resilience.

“May this solemn observance serve as a reminder that true celebration lies not only in merriment but in our shared strength, resilience and care for one another,” she said.

The postponement comes as Bago City continues to recover from the impact of “Tino,” which left casualties and significant damage across Negros Occidental.

Al Cinco de Noviembre marks the historic 1898 revolt of Negrense revolutionaries that led to the province’s independence from Spanish rule — a cornerstone of Bago’s cultural identity and pride./CJ,  WDJ