Albay remembers last general

THE LAST GENERAL
The local government of Guinobatan, Albay province, headed by Mayor Ann Ongjoco, offers a wreath during the celebration of the 150th birthday of Gen. Simeon Arboleda Ola, the last Filipino general to surrender to American forces during the Filipino-American War.
MARK ALVIC ESPLANA/INQUIRER SOUTHERN LUZON

HUNDREDS of people paid tribute to Gen. Simeon Arboleda Ola, the last Filipino general to surrender to American forces during the Filipino-American War, for his contribution to national independence during the celebration of his 150th birth anniversary on Tuesday.

Sept. 2 is a special nonworking holiday in Albay to honor Ola, one of its native heroes.

To honor the general, a simple program and Mass were held at Ola Shrine beside Our Lady of Assumption Parish Church in Barangay Centro, Guinobatan, the general’s hometown. The event was initiated by the municipal government headed by Mayor Ann Ongjoco.

Local officials, military officers and representatives of nongovernment organizations laid wreaths on the shrine. A revolutionary flag was raised, followed by a 21-gun salute by Army soldiers, and a civil and military parade on the streets.

The municipal government also formally opened Museo de Guinobatan, which showcases Ola’s belongings, artifacts and documents. One of the items preserved and sealed in a glass cabinet is his saber and the budyong (horn) he used during the war.

Paintings and illustrations about the American occupation and devastating war events are among those displayed inside the museum.

Dr. Erlinda Ola Casan, 68, a granddaughter of the late general, said she was very happy that the people of Albay have not forgotten Ola’s heroism.

“All the Albayanos are really working hard just to make the occasion honorable,” said Casan, who now lives in Marawi City, capital of Lanao del Sur province.

In her short speech following the wreath-laying rite, Casan said the actions taken by her grandfather was a reflection of his love for the country. She hoped that the bravery, honesty and integrity shown by her grandfather would be emulated and would be a living legacy to all generations.

Two great grandchildren of Ola—Baissah Acraman, 36, and Baimond Batugan, 29—said they felt very proud that Albayanos continued to honor him.