The Historical Background of Carcar City's Rizal Monument

 

Nestled in the heart of the historic plaza of the Heritage City of Carcar, the Rizal Monument stands as a proud testament to the city's deep-seated patriotism and community spirit. Erected during the American colonial era, a period of burgeoning Filipino national consciousness, the monument is more than just a landmark; it is a symbol of a collective aspiration to honor the national hero, Dr. Jose Rizal.

The monument was formally inaugurated on December 30th, 1927, a date poignantly engraved in old Cebuano on its pedestal. Its creation was a cornerstone project during the administration of the visionary mayor, Mariano Mercado. His term was marked by significant civic development, as he also initiated the construction of other enduring Carcar landmarks, including the iconic rotunda and the Carcar Dispensary, which has since been repurposed as the Carcar City Museum. Placing the statue of the national hero in the middle of the city plaza solidified its role as the civic and cultural heart of the municipality.

The construction of the monument was not a singular government effort but a remarkable community-wide endeavor. The funds were raised through the collaborative efforts of Carcar's most prominent families, including the Abellana, Mercado, Sato, Duterte, Regis, Yap, Aldave, del Corro, and Silva clans. In a significant display of unity, the fundraising activities also received crucial support from religious groups beyond the Catholic majority, notably the Iglesia Filipina Independiente (IFI) - Aglipayan Church and the local Protestant church. This broad-based support underscores the universal appeal of Rizal's heroism and the unified desire of the people of Carcar to immortalize his legacy. 

Architecturally, the monument is a quintessential example of provincial monument design from the American period. It embodies a graceful blend of Neoclassical principles and a distinct local simplicity. The design features a multi-tiered pedestal resting on a square plinth with stairs on all four sides, inviting public interaction. Its ornamentation is restrained yet symbolic, with classical motifs like floral wreaths in relief signifying honor. The overall vertical composition directs the eye upward to the realistically styled statue of Rizal, rendered in the academic sculptural tradition of the era.

Ultimately, the Rizal Monument of Carcar is a product of its time—a physical manifestation of a community's pride, a symbol of unity that transcended social and religious lines, and an enduring legacy of the patriotic fervor that defined the early 20th century in the Philippines.

PAGTUKOD: A Talk on Built Heritage - An Overview of Negros Oriental's Historical Treasures

On July 18, 2025, the National Museum of the Philippines-Dumaguete hosted "Pagtúkod: A Talk on Built Heritage," the third installment of its public program. The event featured Reverend Monsignor Julius Perpetuo S. Heruela of the Diocese of Dumaguete, who provided a comprehensive look into the built heritage of Negros Oriental, its legal protection, and the challenges of preservation.

Msgr. Heruela began the talk by distinguishing Negros Oriental’s built heritage from that of Negros Occidental, focusing on their unique construction processes. He highlighted the legal foundation for heritage preservation, specifically referencing the National Cultural Heritage Act of 2009 (Republic Act No. 10066). This act is designed to protect, preserve, and promote the nation’s cultural heritage and its properties. He also mentioned Republic Act No. 10086, which aims to strengthen national identity through the popularization of Philippine history.

The discussion covered several key sites in Negros Oriental, including historic churches in Bacong, Dauin, and Zamboanguita, ancient watchtowers, and old houses in Dumaguete City. Msgr. Heruela explained the evolution of the bahay na bato architectural style from the bahay kubo, noting the use of stone instead of bamboo. He also highlighted the province's rich industrial heritage and the diverse use of local materials in construction, such as coral stone for cathedral walls, bricks in Bacong Church, and river stones in Zamboanguita.

A significant portion of the talk was dedicated to the threats facing built heritage. Msgr. Heruela pointed out improper activities, such as the construction of modern structures too close to historical sites and the use of incorrect preservation techniques. He cited an example where automotive paint was mistakenly applied to wood during restoration and another where an attempt to expose original bricks on a church wall led to its pulverization. He also revealed the presence of Rococo art in the province, which is characterized by intricate details and soft color palettes. However, he noted the need for further research on its origins in Siaton and criticized an instance where a Rococo-style piece was incorrectly painted gold.

Functional aspects of built heritage were also discussed, such as the elevated church windows in Bacong designed to enhance acoustics, which allow for six to eight echoes, as heard from the bamboo pipe organ. Msgr. Heruela criticized past preservation efforts for not properly studying stained-glass windows, which can lead to excessive heat inside structures in a tropical climate like the Philippines. The talk concluded with a poignant image of the Capitol building's once magnificent view, now unfortunately obscured.

The event's open forum focused on how to foster greater public awareness, especially among the youth. Msgr. Heruela suggested local declarations and integrating field trips to heritage sites into school curricula to encourage students to visit historical places instead of malls. Glynda Descuatan, Vice Chair of the Negros Oriental Tourism Council, proposed inviting heritage committees to provide tour operators with more in-depth historical narratives. Associate Professor Penn Larena, President of NOACAA-INC and a cultural heritage advocate, proposed a provincial ordinance that would mandate a subject on historical culture from elementary to college in both public and private schools.

Shimei Estimada, Administrative Officer V of NMP-Dumaguete, concluded the discussion by acknowledging the need for assistance in creating accurate historical narratives and documentaries. She extended a plea to historians and the church for their contributions and announced the museum's plan to coordinate with the Department of Education (DepEd) to facilitate school field trips. The event served as a call to action for the community to support cultural education, responsible heritage management, and the preservation of Negros Oriental’s rich historical legacy.

Dumaguete Underground Movement

 During the Japanese Occupation in Negros Oriental the underground intelligence in Dumaguete was organized by Jesus Chi. It had around twenty members. Some of the members were: Pastor Valenciano, Engineers Eduardo J. Blanco and Jovenal V. Somoza, Tanseing Dy, Lorenzo Cimafranca and Quintin Limquiaco. While most of the members were inside Dumaguete, others like Tanseing Dy were in the uplands of Bacong, Dauin and Zamboanguita. They relayed information to the guerrilla headquarters in Malabo. If ever one of them was caught by the Japanese, these members had an agreement that during the investigation they would implicate the Japanese collaborators as among them. According to reports this was why Wentworth Uy Tengsu, whose family was with the Japanese, was tortured and executed by the Japanese. This happened a few days before the Americans arrived on April 26, 1945.

In the latter half of 1943, the Japanese were concentrating their warplanes in the Dumaguete airport, and this airport was one of their training centers for pilots in Negros. Some members of the underground resistance volunteered to work at the landing field everyday in order to make a map of the Japanese installations there. They were paid with Japanese money and received one small tin can (milkmaid) of rice a day. They were able to draw a map on one-half page of pad paper, which was sent to the guerrilla headquarters in the mountains. The provincial engineer, E. J. Blanco, and his assistant, Jovenal Somoza, made a detailed ground plan of the Dumaguete landing field and installations. One cloudy and rainy afternoon this plan was placed inside one of the iron bars of Lorenzo Cimafranca’s bicycle. He rode this bicycle passing the seashore south of Dumaguete, and carefully holding the bicycle bars above water, he swam across the mouth of Banica River at sundown. Ensong Cimafranca was able to deliver the plan to the underground members in Bacong who brought it to the guerrilla headquarters.53

This plan was sent to Gen. MacArthur in Australia. Because of this, the bombing of the Dumaguete airport by American planes on September 12, 1944 was very successful. On this very day in the afternoon around twenty Filipinos in Dumaguete including Engineers Blanco and Somoza, together with Jesus Chi and a Portuguese by the name of Silva, were rounded up by the Japanese and imprisoned in the “Davao Cottage” of Silliman University. Weeks later, the others were released but the four were loaded on a motor-launch and thrown into the sea. They died heroes of the World War II Dumaguete underground resistance

Negros Oriental Arts Month 2025: Let’s Talk About Art and Light

 

Negros Oriental Arts Month 2025: Let’s Talk About Art and Light

To culminate the celebration of National Arts Month (NAM) 2025, the National Museum of the Philippines-Dumaguete hosted an insightful art talk titled Whispers of Light, Echoes of Life featuring renowned Dumaguete-based visual artist and Fine Arts instructor Kevin Cornelia. The event took place last  February 28 at 2 PM and was attended by artists, students, and culture enthusiasts from various sectors of the province.

Artist Talk with Dumaguete Visual Artist Kevin Cornelia 

The Negros Oriental Alliance of Arts and Culture Advocates (NOAACA-INC) extended its gratitude to the National Museum of the Philippines-Dumaguete City Branch for organizing this meaningful event. Special appreciation was also given to Shimei R. Estimada, Head of the National Museum Dumaguete, as well as to notable guests such as Atty. Pristine Raymond, First Lady of Bayawan City, and representatives from St. Paul University Dumaguete (SPUD), the Paulinian Arts Society, the Buglas Reading & Writers Club, and museum staff F. Jordan Carnice, H. June Tubil, and Athena Piñero. CATIPO Head Sir Atilano Jude Silorio Cabangal, as well as Sir Nick Elemia and SPUD professor and NOAACA-INC president Penn T. Larena, were among those who attended the event.

 

NOACAA- INC Officers with Kevin Cornelia

Bayawan City First Lady Pristine Martinez Raymond ,CATIPO Head Sir Atilano Jude Silorio Cabangal, as well as Sir Nick Elemia

Kevin Cornelia, a Fine Arts instructor at Foundation University, shared his artistic journey and inspirations behind his monochromatic and dreamlike works. This event marked his second solo exhibition, following his successful showcase at the Mugna Art Gallery in 2024.

The art talk provided a space for reflection and discussion on contemporary Filipino art, artistic identity, and the evolving landscape of creative expression. The open forum was an enriching experience, encouraging dialogue on how art can illuminate personal narratives and social realities. This event aligned perfectly with the 2025 National Arts Month theme, Ani ng Sining: Diwa at Damdamin (Harvest of the Arts: Soul and Passion).

Commemorating the Spirit of Freedom and Democracy

In another significant event, NOAACA-INC, the BUGLAS Reading & Writers Club, and The Open Book Circle joined the nation in commemorating the 39th anniversary of the EDSA People Power Revolution. As part of this tribute, members reaffirmed their commitment to preserving freedom, truth, and cultural expression for future generations. Special thanks were extended to the BSA students of St. Paul University Dumaguete under the guidance of Prof. Penn T. Larena for their participation in Reading in Philippine History.

Prof. Penn T. Larena, Advocate  OF Peace & Democracy 

Celebrating NOAACA-INC’s 5th Anniversary

The Negros Oriental Alliance of Culture & Arts Advocates (NOAACA-INC) also marked its 5th anniversary at La Mensa Buglas Isla Café. This milestone event served as an opportunity to reflect on the organization’s journey and its contributions to arts, culture, history, and heritage over the past five years. The group expressed its heartfelt gratitude to everyone who has supported its mission and reaffirmed its dedication to preserving and promoting the rich cultural heritage of Negros Oriental.

As NOAACA-INC continues to grow, it acknowledges the guidance and blessings of God in strengthening its advocacy. The organization remains committed to fostering a vibrant arts and culture scene that honors the history and identity of the province.

5th Anniversary of  NOACCA-INC

Foundation University’s Art Exhibit at Robinsons Place Dumaguete

To further celebrate National Arts Month, the Foundation University Fine Arts Program hosted an art exhibit as part of the 17th University Expo at Robinsons Place Dumaguete on February 28, 2025. The exhibition showcased the talent and creativity of students, reinforcing the role of the university in shaping the next generation of artists in Negros Oriental. 

As the celebrations of National Arts Month 2025 come to an end, the events held throughout February highlighted the importance of artistic expression in shaping cultural identity. Through collaborations between artists, students, and cultural advocates, Negros Oriental continues to be a beacon of creativity and heritage preservation.

Foundation University Fine Arts Students

Kitty Taniguchi: A Champion of Feminine Aesthetic

 Biography of Cristina "Kitty" Taniguchi

Cristina "Kitty" Sollesta-Taniguchi, born in 1952, is a prominent Filipino visual artist known for her exploration of femininity and symbolism in art.​ She completed her Bachelor’s degree in Mass Communication in 1978 and a Master’s degree in English Literature in 1985 at Silliman University, where she wrote her thesis titled "Gothic Tales in Siquijor: Their Theological Implications."

Kitty began her artistic journey in the 1980s, navigating the challenges of being a woman in a male-dominated art world. In 1992, she founded Mariyah Gallery, an artist-run space that served as a platform for her and other artists. Her work often reflects her personal experiences and the struggles of women, using symbolism to challenge traditional representations.

She has held solo exhibitions at prestigious venues such as the Cultural Center of the Philippines, Ayala Museum, and Pinto Gallery, and has participated in numerous group exhibitions. Her artistic style has evolved over the years, characterized by a blend of imagination, philosophy, and a deep engagement with social issues.

Kitty continues to live and work in Dumaguete City, where she remains an influential figure in the local art scene, inspiring new generations of artists.

Notable Artworks

Banshee 2 (early 1990s)

Blue Skyscrapers and Human Figures (1993)

Blue Dancers Series (1993)

Heroes and Dancers Series (Blue Dancers) (1994)

Paper City Series (Nude in the Park) (1994)

Lady with Tattoo (1996)

Artista Filipino 2 (2000)

The Virgin (2000)

Maria Itaru and the Green Dragon (2000)

I Think I Like It (2002)

Fish Tale With Big Lizard (2003)

Crow Rebellion (2003)

Buddha, His Cheeth and His Crow (2006)

Lion, Cheetah and Blue Chair (2006)

Evesian Dream No.1 (2006)

Winged Lover (2009)

The Nurturers (2009)

Sending Off The Crow and Buddha in the City (2008)

AWARDS :

CCP KAISA SA SINING VISAYAS NETWORK ANNOUNCES THE RECIPIENTS OF THE 2ND KSSLAP AWARDS 2024 

Dakong Balay in Dumaguete City Serafin Lajato Teves Mansion

 Story from Serafin Nito Teves III, Negros Oriental Visual Artist and Historian

While we celebrate, commemorate, and contemplate the 85th Anniversary of Dakong Balay ~ Dumaguete (1936-2021), it is also important to remember its place in our city's history.

It was designed and built in 1936 by Architect Julio Victor Rocha ~ an architect whose life has been closely associated with the architectural progress of the Philippines.

Rocha was voted the Industrial Architect of 1949.

Around 1935 or so, Julio Victor Rocha was commissioned by my paternal grandparents, Serafin Lajato Teves and Milagros de Teves (née Montenegro) to build their dreamhouse along Paseo de Rizal ( present Rizal Ave )— or the Boulevard as it known nowadays by most Dumagueteños.

Regretfully, my paternal grandparents and their children were able to reside in their ivy-clad pink stuccoed "mansion by the sea" for only five or so years in view of the fact that, in May 26, 1942 ~ their residence was confiscated by the Kimpetai to serve as the Officer's Quarters of the Japanese Imperial Army.

In 1945, as the Japanese Imperial Forces were in retreat, our beloved ancestral house was set aflame.

It was later rebuilt in 1946 by Engineer Francisco Banogon of Silliman University.

When Serafin L. Teves became Governor of Negros Oriental (1956-1959), Dakong Balay hosted visiting presidents and presidentiables, ambassadors and movie stars, as well as literati and glitterati.

Although the rooms of this heritage house have now been repurposed into restaurants, cafés, art galleries, and more, I'm glad the physicality of this historical building is still intact.

Kudos to this 85-year-old home (1936-2021) which is now a commercial and cultural hub of the 73-year-old City of Dumaguete (1948-2021).

Vicente Lopez Jr. Memorial Cultural Museum

Vicente Lopez Jr.  Memorial Cultural Museum
Hacienda Doña Elena ,Bagawines, Vallehermoso, Negros Oriental

Thank you so much to Miss Tess Lopez & Vallehermoso Helping Hands Foundation Inc