Amidst the measures being taken for the possible landfall of Typhoon Pepito, the City Government of Borongan through the City Tourism Office dedicated a brief wreath-laying ceremony at the Daza monument in Barangay Alang-Alang earlier today, Nov. 15. The ceremony was held in celebration of the 154th birth anniversary of Maj. Eugenio S. Daza, local hero of the Province of Eastern Samar.
Daza is recognized by the National Commission for Culture and the Arts as the first teacher in Samar Island. As commander of the revolutionary forces in Eastern Samar, he is credited for his invaluable contribution to the Filipino victory against the American Forces. He was given the moniker “Utak” or brain of the battle of Balangiga, having served as overall commander and tactician of the uprising. Major Daza was also one of the earliest advocates for the return of the Balangiga bells.
Following the wreath-laying ceremony, a short program was held at the gymnasium of the provincial police office where Borongan City Mayor Jose Ivan Dayan Agda, Vice Mayor Emman Tiu Sonco, Guest Speaker Lt. Col. Joseph Bugaoan, Carol Daza and Pat Daza of the Daza family, Board Member Ralph Vincent Evardone as Governor Ben Evardone’s representative, and Miss Cora Basada, representative of Cong. Maria Fe Abunda, each gave messages honoring the local hero.
Also in attendance were the rest of the descendants of Major Daza, city councilors, the department heads of LGU Borongan, the 78th Infantry Battalion, PNP Eastern Samar, BFP, BJMP, the Philippine Coastguard, and ESDPES Principal Emma Ogdalla.
The commemorative ceremony concluded with a rendition of “Ay Borongan” by the Borongan City Chorale.
#EugenioDazaDay
